Moving weekend is always a particularly fun time to sit on the balcony and watch the neighborhood go by....there are always amazing things being transported down the street, usually by hand. Sometimes, the stuff itself is entertaining (Saturday, there was a wardrobe that had been converted into a chicken cage). Sometimes, the transport feats are incredible (on Sunday, 6 couches in a row paraded by, on 6 men's heads. I wonder who needs 6 couches, and I wonder how hard it is to see with a couch on your head). Sometimes, the stories created in my head are the highlight (a particularly masculine man went by, carrying a humongous heart shaped glass plate, delicately etched in flowers. I tried to imagine where he lives, and how it will fit in).
Monday, June 4, 2012
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Conflict of interest in action
As most people living on the east side of Joburg know, there is a particular dip in Observatory Avenue, near the Bez Valley park, where it's rather difficult to keep to the speed limit. The hill is steep, there's not much but park on either side of the road, it's quite a distance to the next traffic light - it's an ideal spot to go zOOm, for drivers who are so inclined.
Of course, Joburg metro discovered this, and sets up camp there pretty much every day speed trapping. I don't know anybody with a car who hasn't gotten at least one fine there. It was a particularly strategic place for the police to set up camp, because a bunch of undergrowth from the park came right out to the road, making it impossible to see them from either direction.
Today, city parks went on a pruning spree. The whole roadside has been cleared, up to the fence. A rather disgruntled crew of metro policy were gathered in a nearby parking lot, no doubt trying to decide what options were available. I wonder how traffic patterns will change....
Of course, Joburg metro discovered this, and sets up camp there pretty much every day speed trapping. I don't know anybody with a car who hasn't gotten at least one fine there. It was a particularly strategic place for the police to set up camp, because a bunch of undergrowth from the park came right out to the road, making it impossible to see them from either direction.
Today, city parks went on a pruning spree. The whole roadside has been cleared, up to the fence. A rather disgruntled crew of metro policy were gathered in a nearby parking lot, no doubt trying to decide what options were available. I wonder how traffic patterns will change....
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Spear/Smear of the nation destroyed
I'm not quite sure if I'm thrilled that art is still playing such a cutting edge role in provoking public debate, or morbidly fascinated that there aren't better things to worry about than the president's willy. For those not living in South Africa (or living under a rock), the Goodman Gallery has become The Place To Be in Joburg, when, in the savviest curatorial decision in history, they put up a Brett Meyer art exhibit including a picture of Zuma with his, ahem, hanging out (others have suggested that it could just as well be Vavi - this doesn't make quite as good a news story, though...). As an aside, the rest of the exhibit's quite clever.
The ANC's response was not quite so savvy; what was an opportunity to show a bit of humor and maturity instead sparked protests and court interdicts (which I can't imagine have a chance in the world of getting anywhere, except making noise in the papers....we were starting to get tired of Mdluli anyway). Given that South Africa has some of the strongest jurisprudence protecting satire out there, I'm not sure what the goal is (perhaps build support for certain presidential parts being covered by the secrecy bill?).
Anyway, it seems like every time these furors erupt in public discourse, I come away feeling very un-South African (maybe home affairs saw something to make them delay my ID book application). In very much the same way I feel un-American when the conversation turns to politics in Nebraska. I'm generally surrounded by 'leftish' public intellectuals, most of whom were strongly supportive of the ANC (and many of whom still are), while still being critical of the corruption, neoliberalism, materialism, and other nasties are now part of the ruling party. Whether or not I agree with their take on issues like this, I'm acutely aware of a complete chasm that exists in mindsets between them, and the ANC supporters protesting for the removal of the painting. I can't even blame this one on economic inequality, because I feel the same chasm when my mother starts talking about Sarah Palin.
In cases like this, you can't completely avoid the discussion of who's right (there's some sort of responsibility to public discourse to hash it out, at least until the newspapers get bored)....But at the risk of sounding like a marriage counselor, I'm not sure being right is the point (even though it's to know I'm right). The more important questions aren't battled out in the media...given all this, how can we still work towards all the things we do agree on? The current levels of unemployment are shocking whether you think the depiction of Zuma is racist of not. As the DA and Cosatu are at loggerheads about a youth wage subsidy, why is the discussion about the disagreement in means, instead of how to achieve the shared goal?
The ANC's response was not quite so savvy; what was an opportunity to show a bit of humor and maturity instead sparked protests and court interdicts (which I can't imagine have a chance in the world of getting anywhere, except making noise in the papers....we were starting to get tired of Mdluli anyway). Given that South Africa has some of the strongest jurisprudence protecting satire out there, I'm not sure what the goal is (perhaps build support for certain presidential parts being covered by the secrecy bill?).
Anyway, it seems like every time these furors erupt in public discourse, I come away feeling very un-South African (maybe home affairs saw something to make them delay my ID book application). In very much the same way I feel un-American when the conversation turns to politics in Nebraska. I'm generally surrounded by 'leftish' public intellectuals, most of whom were strongly supportive of the ANC (and many of whom still are), while still being critical of the corruption, neoliberalism, materialism, and other nasties are now part of the ruling party. Whether or not I agree with their take on issues like this, I'm acutely aware of a complete chasm that exists in mindsets between them, and the ANC supporters protesting for the removal of the painting. I can't even blame this one on economic inequality, because I feel the same chasm when my mother starts talking about Sarah Palin.
In cases like this, you can't completely avoid the discussion of who's right (there's some sort of responsibility to public discourse to hash it out, at least until the newspapers get bored)....But at the risk of sounding like a marriage counselor, I'm not sure being right is the point (even though it's to know I'm right). The more important questions aren't battled out in the media...given all this, how can we still work towards all the things we do agree on? The current levels of unemployment are shocking whether you think the depiction of Zuma is racist of not. As the DA and Cosatu are at loggerheads about a youth wage subsidy, why is the discussion about the disagreement in means, instead of how to achieve the shared goal?
Monday, May 21, 2012
Soap Oils
I've been talking about soap making enough that it finally gets a post. There are plenty of online tutorials for how to make cold process soap, so I'm not going to repeat the basic information. I will, however, localise it a bit. There don't seem to be too many artisanal cold process soap makers in this part of the world (or, they don't have much of an online presence - or, I just haven't come across them yet); this surprises me, given that you can find boereseep at so many padstaals across the country.
I already wrote about where to find lye in Joburg; I'd imagine in rural areas, finding pure caustic soda is somewhat easier.
Some discoveries I've made on oils:
Coconut oil is tricky to get. It really does improve the quality of soap dramatically, so if you're tempted to skimp on it because it's hard to find or expensive...think twice. The exception is if you want to render your own tallow, which makes a reasonable substitute (though an even better compliment). If I didn't live in a flat in Yeoville, I'd do this more often - but without a place to cook outside and a massive freezer, it's not really worth the work and mess. So, I buy coconut oil from Windrose. I like that you can order online conveniently, in a range of quantities; if anyone has other suppliers to recommend (or wants to split up super big bulk orders), shout.
Sunflower seed oil is also tricky. It's a very common cooking oil here, readily available, inexpensive - and not the best for soap making. It's very good if kept strictly at under 10% of your base oils; but any more than that, and the soap tends to be too soft (and rumour has it will spoil, though I've never had that happen before). The exception is if you're making detergent, or laundry soap; a useful thing with used sunflower seed oil.
Most other good base oils are readily available and not terribly expensive. Palm oil is everywhere and used for everything. Ditto with soybean and canola, though they tend to be heavily genetically modified. Olive oil's predictably expensive, but available in bulk without much hassle; getting pomace is harder in Joburg, but can be found by perusing joints that press their own oil in the Western Cape (if anyone knows of good pomace suppliers in Joburg, please let me know). There are lots of fabulous specialty oils, like marula, avocado, and macadamia, that I always try and look for when I'm in the right parts of the country; I'm always looking around for recommendations if people know of great sources! But these are generally best as super-fatting oils, rather than bases.
Used cooking oil is fabulous for making run of the mill soaps and detergents. I can easily get used palm oil from local restaurants; I just strain it, add some fresh coconut, soybean, and canola oil to it for a laundry soap batch, and it works brilliantly. You can make soap with bacon grease and there's no smell at all; used cooking oil's just fine. It doesn't make A grade soap, but is perfect for general household purposes.
Some discoveries on soap molds:
I'm still looking for someone to make me the perfect wooden soap mold :) In the meantime, however, there are lots of good options. 1 liter juice (or long life milk) cartons work great; they're just the right size. I haven't managed to find an ideal plastic ware size/ shape. There seem to be more people making melt and pour soap than cold process in Joburg, and as a result, getting those plastic or silicon fancy shaped soap molds is relatively easy; however, I don't like them much, and would rather use a shoe box.
I already wrote about where to find lye in Joburg; I'd imagine in rural areas, finding pure caustic soda is somewhat easier.
Some discoveries I've made on oils:
Coconut oil is tricky to get. It really does improve the quality of soap dramatically, so if you're tempted to skimp on it because it's hard to find or expensive...think twice. The exception is if you want to render your own tallow, which makes a reasonable substitute (though an even better compliment). If I didn't live in a flat in Yeoville, I'd do this more often - but without a place to cook outside and a massive freezer, it's not really worth the work and mess. So, I buy coconut oil from Windrose. I like that you can order online conveniently, in a range of quantities; if anyone has other suppliers to recommend (or wants to split up super big bulk orders), shout.
Sunflower seed oil is also tricky. It's a very common cooking oil here, readily available, inexpensive - and not the best for soap making. It's very good if kept strictly at under 10% of your base oils; but any more than that, and the soap tends to be too soft (and rumour has it will spoil, though I've never had that happen before). The exception is if you're making detergent, or laundry soap; a useful thing with used sunflower seed oil.
Most other good base oils are readily available and not terribly expensive. Palm oil is everywhere and used for everything. Ditto with soybean and canola, though they tend to be heavily genetically modified. Olive oil's predictably expensive, but available in bulk without much hassle; getting pomace is harder in Joburg, but can be found by perusing joints that press their own oil in the Western Cape (if anyone knows of good pomace suppliers in Joburg, please let me know). There are lots of fabulous specialty oils, like marula, avocado, and macadamia, that I always try and look for when I'm in the right parts of the country; I'm always looking around for recommendations if people know of great sources! But these are generally best as super-fatting oils, rather than bases.
Used cooking oil is fabulous for making run of the mill soaps and detergents. I can easily get used palm oil from local restaurants; I just strain it, add some fresh coconut, soybean, and canola oil to it for a laundry soap batch, and it works brilliantly. You can make soap with bacon grease and there's no smell at all; used cooking oil's just fine. It doesn't make A grade soap, but is perfect for general household purposes.
Some discoveries on soap molds:
I'm still looking for someone to make me the perfect wooden soap mold :) In the meantime, however, there are lots of good options. 1 liter juice (or long life milk) cartons work great; they're just the right size. I haven't managed to find an ideal plastic ware size/ shape. There seem to be more people making melt and pour soap than cold process in Joburg, and as a result, getting those plastic or silicon fancy shaped soap molds is relatively easy; however, I don't like them much, and would rather use a shoe box.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Out My Window This Week
1. The neighbors. Now that the leaves have almost fallen off the trees, the views into the flats across the street are unobstructed. Happily, I have curtains. Unhappily, most of the neighbors do not. I suppose there ought to be some sort of urban camaraderie in the guy next door smoking in his boxers while I'm sitting out on the balcony having my morning coffee. I haven't found it yet. It's too cold to be eating breakfast outside anyway.
2. The Jesus Mobile. There has been a very large, bright blue combi driving around, with a life sized Jesus and megaphone on top, playing gospel music. I don't know where it comes from, but it goes by about twice a day.
3. The sun! I'm on the south side of the building, which means as winter comes, I get more direct sunlight. First thing in the morning, it's fabulous!
4. The Rat saga continues. I'm quite happy to watch them dance in the gutters as I do the dishes, but apparently folks on the first floor have started getting them as visitors. Not so great. I wouldn't mind a good excuse to get a cat! We'll see.
5. Vuvuzelas. With the Pirates win last night, they're back with a vengeance. During the day, a block away, I feel content patriotism. All night, right under the window, is a different story.
2. The Jesus Mobile. There has been a very large, bright blue combi driving around, with a life sized Jesus and megaphone on top, playing gospel music. I don't know where it comes from, but it goes by about twice a day.
3. The sun! I'm on the south side of the building, which means as winter comes, I get more direct sunlight. First thing in the morning, it's fabulous!
4. The Rat saga continues. I'm quite happy to watch them dance in the gutters as I do the dishes, but apparently folks on the first floor have started getting them as visitors. Not so great. I wouldn't mind a good excuse to get a cat! We'll see.
5. Vuvuzelas. With the Pirates win last night, they're back with a vengeance. During the day, a block away, I feel content patriotism. All night, right under the window, is a different story.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Re-loving The Troyeville
I'm now rediscovering Johannesburg - with a toddler! I figure the trial run won't hurt. A good friend of mine has an 18 month old boy, who is sweet, but active (and currently likes to throw anything that will hold still long enough; double points if it makes a loud noise). I'm now thinking of going out in new ways.
The Troyeville Hotel has been a favorite haunt of mine more or less since I've come to Joburg. The crowd is unpretentious, the food is reliable and good, and the place has something for every mood; you can take your grandmother there for a formal Sunday lunch, or your friends can take you out for a raucous party (with good beer). While I don't quite qualify as a regular (the true regulars are like permanent fixtures to their bar stools), I regularly bump into people I know and like. It's hard going wrong. But just how toddler friendly would it be?
As it turns out, more than I ever could have dreamt. It helps that it was a Monday night and we were there early, so it was very quiet. But one of the waiters picked up on the fact that my friend and I were trying to sneak in snatches of adult conversation in between chasing the bub from table to table, and whisked him off for a backstage tour of the kitchen. Baba managed to charm everyone so much that we didn't get nasty looks for leaving our paper table cloth in confetti around the balcony. We were kept well supplied with little plastic butter tubs to throw (which don't cause too much damage), and bub could do laps around the balcony as we ate. The pot plants were big enough to be an attraction, and too big to dump over/ spill out/ tear up. It was just the right level of stimulation to keep a toddler totally enthralled, and not overwhelmed.
Thank you Troyeville Hotel, yet another reason you're one of my favorite places to hang out in Joburg.
The Troyeville Hotel has been a favorite haunt of mine more or less since I've come to Joburg. The crowd is unpretentious, the food is reliable and good, and the place has something for every mood; you can take your grandmother there for a formal Sunday lunch, or your friends can take you out for a raucous party (with good beer). While I don't quite qualify as a regular (the true regulars are like permanent fixtures to their bar stools), I regularly bump into people I know and like. It's hard going wrong. But just how toddler friendly would it be?
As it turns out, more than I ever could have dreamt. It helps that it was a Monday night and we were there early, so it was very quiet. But one of the waiters picked up on the fact that my friend and I were trying to sneak in snatches of adult conversation in between chasing the bub from table to table, and whisked him off for a backstage tour of the kitchen. Baba managed to charm everyone so much that we didn't get nasty looks for leaving our paper table cloth in confetti around the balcony. We were kept well supplied with little plastic butter tubs to throw (which don't cause too much damage), and bub could do laps around the balcony as we ate. The pot plants were big enough to be an attraction, and too big to dump over/ spill out/ tear up. It was just the right level of stimulation to keep a toddler totally enthralled, and not overwhelmed.
Thank you Troyeville Hotel, yet another reason you're one of my favorite places to hang out in Joburg.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Reviewing Ramen
Braamfontein is trying to re-take center stage on the Johannesburg culinary scene; one of the new places that's sprung up is Ramen, in that little plaza between de Korte and Juta streets. They advertise free wifi, and I'm always on the hunt for hangouts with good food and wireless. They are few and far between in Joburg, and generally not the easiest to access via public transport. Melville seems to have a concentration of these joints (though often without the good food), but I'm convinced it's not necessary to schlep to the west side of town. I'm digressing.
So, it's possibly my own fault for expecting an authentic Japanese noodle shop....because authentic, it is not. The menu boasts of one noddle option, wraps, curries, and bunny chows. The drink options are limited to things that come out of cans (I was really geared up for a fresh juice. Or a ginger beer. I had to settle for Lipton's Peace Iced Tea in a can. Bleh).
The food was mediocre - made fresh to order, though it had too much sauce, clearly from a squeeze bottle, with no strong affiliation to Asian cuisine. The service was very friendly and quite efficient (yay!). Prices were good (R50 for lunch).
The clientelle was....interesting. Not quite what I expected. I spent about an hour and a half there, and of about 30 people who filtered through, I was the only woman (perhaps I was hyper aware of this, because I was working on a discussion paper on gender justice. But it was still odd - and true of the adjoining coffee shop, as well). Lots of businessmen, mostly middle age and in suits. I was also the only one working on a laptop. It definitely hasn't managed to cultivate the vibe of an inviting, hip place to spend some time and get some work done. I'll probably still be back, for the sheer convenience. But 44 Stanley still wins for a place I'd actually aim to spend time.
So, it's possibly my own fault for expecting an authentic Japanese noodle shop....because authentic, it is not. The menu boasts of one noddle option, wraps, curries, and bunny chows. The drink options are limited to things that come out of cans (I was really geared up for a fresh juice. Or a ginger beer. I had to settle for Lipton's Peace Iced Tea in a can. Bleh).
The food was mediocre - made fresh to order, though it had too much sauce, clearly from a squeeze bottle, with no strong affiliation to Asian cuisine. The service was very friendly and quite efficient (yay!). Prices were good (R50 for lunch).
The clientelle was....interesting. Not quite what I expected. I spent about an hour and a half there, and of about 30 people who filtered through, I was the only woman (perhaps I was hyper aware of this, because I was working on a discussion paper on gender justice. But it was still odd - and true of the adjoining coffee shop, as well). Lots of businessmen, mostly middle age and in suits. I was also the only one working on a laptop. It definitely hasn't managed to cultivate the vibe of an inviting, hip place to spend some time and get some work done. I'll probably still be back, for the sheer convenience. But 44 Stanley still wins for a place I'd actually aim to spend time.
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