Monday 30 December 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Goodbye 2019 Hello 2020
My Life's Winding Roads: Goodbye 2019 Hello 2020: Good morning friends and family on this my last Blog for 2019, a year that I know many of you will be sincerely glad to see the end of. For...
Goodbye 2019 Hello 2020
Good morning friends and family on this my last Blog for 2019, a year that I know many of you will be sincerely glad to see the end of. For some reason 2019 would appears to have been an extremely difficult year in one way or another for almost everyone I know. The fact that we are still here and pushing onward is a testimony to the Grace of our Lord and an inner strength you may not have been aware that you had previously.
For us the year began with the apocalyptic fire storm that ravaged our beautiful village and the mountains all around us, health issues - the rare kind of animal ringworm infection I caught from Zeepha which led to a difficult year in general health wise. There have been many ups and downs which are unique to each individual and/or family, many losses BUT the most important thing to do is close off 2019 having learnt what we can from it and move forward into 2020 with a positive mind set and treasuring all the good things that did happen. For every negative story you can tell about this past year I know there are numerous positive stories about Gods goodness, His faithfulness and Grace which has brought you to today. A tough year ? You bet. Did we see good things come from it ? More than I can count, and that is what I choose to take with me into the New Year and the decade ahead of us. Personally I am excited to see what God has in store for my family and I because He has never, ever failed us, not for one moment. Things have happened that I will never know why, this side of heaven, but looking back through every experience I can see what I have learnt and how I have grown. May we take all that experience and learning into this new decade and make a difference to those around us and to our planet.
Whilst talking about 2020 I saw something yesterday which bears sharing and taking note of - when signing documents etc this coming year be sure to fill in the entire year eg. 1/01/2020, don't leave off the 20 because if you have 1/01/20 anyone can add additional numbers on the end which would render the document nul and void.
Apart from have a very quiet Christmas with just the girls we had a quiet week as Princess was not at all well, in the almost four weeks here with us, she has been to the beach exactly once. Not at all like my Princess but thankfully it appears that she has turned the corner and on her way to feeling much better, even though we still do not know exactly what was the problem. On Friday Poppet, Jelly Bean and I went into the hairdresser where Poppet got to change the colour of her hair and after months of me trying to go lighter, I caved and am back to my natural birth colour HEHEHE - natural colour would be grey #facepalm.
In closing I would like to thank each and every person who takes the time to read my Blog and thereby share in my crazy life, your encouragement and continued support means more than I can say. Together with Hubby and Jelly Bean, I wish you a wonderful New Year, please be vigilant over the next few days, my prayer is that 2020 will be kind to you and will be a year of blessing, provision, peace and good health. Happy New Year friends and family, stay safe. Ciao ciao.
It is a new day, a new year and a new decade how can we make it better?
For us the year began with the apocalyptic fire storm that ravaged our beautiful village and the mountains all around us, health issues - the rare kind of animal ringworm infection I caught from Zeepha which led to a difficult year in general health wise. There have been many ups and downs which are unique to each individual and/or family, many losses BUT the most important thing to do is close off 2019 having learnt what we can from it and move forward into 2020 with a positive mind set and treasuring all the good things that did happen. For every negative story you can tell about this past year I know there are numerous positive stories about Gods goodness, His faithfulness and Grace which has brought you to today. A tough year ? You bet. Did we see good things come from it ? More than I can count, and that is what I choose to take with me into the New Year and the decade ahead of us. Personally I am excited to see what God has in store for my family and I because He has never, ever failed us, not for one moment. Things have happened that I will never know why, this side of heaven, but looking back through every experience I can see what I have learnt and how I have grown. May we take all that experience and learning into this new decade and make a difference to those around us and to our planet.
Whilst talking about 2020 I saw something yesterday which bears sharing and taking note of - when signing documents etc this coming year be sure to fill in the entire year eg. 1/01/2020, don't leave off the 20 because if you have 1/01/20 anyone can add additional numbers on the end which would render the document nul and void.
Apart from have a very quiet Christmas with just the girls we had a quiet week as Princess was not at all well, in the almost four weeks here with us, she has been to the beach exactly once. Not at all like my Princess but thankfully it appears that she has turned the corner and on her way to feeling much better, even though we still do not know exactly what was the problem. On Friday Poppet, Jelly Bean and I went into the hairdresser where Poppet got to change the colour of her hair and after months of me trying to go lighter, I caved and am back to my natural birth colour HEHEHE - natural colour would be grey #facepalm.
In closing I would like to thank each and every person who takes the time to read my Blog and thereby share in my crazy life, your encouragement and continued support means more than I can say. Together with Hubby and Jelly Bean, I wish you a wonderful New Year, please be vigilant over the next few days, my prayer is that 2020 will be kind to you and will be a year of blessing, provision, peace and good health. Happy New Year friends and family, stay safe. Ciao ciao.
It is a new day, a new year and a new decade how can we make it better?
Monday 23 December 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Merry Chistmas Christmas to all.
My Life's Winding Roads: Merry Chistmas Christmas to all.: Wow and we eventually made it to almost the end of the year, well done folks!! The excitement levels are climbing everywhere and most certa...
Merry Chistmas Christmas to all.
Wow and we eventually made it to almost the end of the year, well done folks!! The excitement levels are climbing everywhere and most certainly in this house. We have had a super busy, exciting week with all sorts of things happening. Apart from the preparations for Poppet's arrival, and general Christmas things there was always something happening, never a dull moment in our home. We have also had some epic 'wild life' moments involving the insect / spider variety - it would seem our 'wild life' is very different down here to up in Gauteng. We opened the front (??) door last week and I saw what looked like a very ugly spider eating a huge wasp, on further examination it turned out that the spider, a big non hairy tarantula shape was being stung repeatedly by the wasp ???? I have never ever seen this before and eventually we managed to separate them, Jelly Bean put Mr Spider over the fence before dispatching the wasp, I somehow don't think the spider survived though.
Poppet arrived on Friday early evening, so we did a marathon shopping expedition in preparation for the weekend and Christmas and then had to play Tetris with the parcels and suitcases at the airport. This signified the END of my retail experiences and adventures until after the holidays!!!!!!! On Saturday BigBear and BabyBear came through and spent the weekend with us all which was an extra blessing, if only Big Guy had been able to join us. We seemed to be eating the entire weekend - really good meals to boot, played Mumbo Jumbo which truly never fails to cause stomach holding laughter. Yesterday more food and just lots of good conversations and catch ups and which was wonderful on all sides. There is nothing more precious to me, than time spent with family.
Speaking about Big Guy he received a call on Friday morning to say he got the position he had applied for and will begin working on the 2nd January, this is a huge answer to prayer as it has been four months of looking, trusting God, standing and not growing weary. Well done son, I could not be happier for you, you so deserve it, God is always faithful.
We had a slight scare with little Max our Yorkie as all of a sudden he looked like he had swallowed a rugby ball. He is coming up for 12 years old and very tiny, we have sadly seen a marked decline in his health over the last six months. My ever patient Hubby took him to the vet who, given his age did not want to do unnecessary scans, blood tests or X-rays before first trying more conservative methods of treating him. She dewormed him, put him on a diuretic pill and a pill for his liver. Praise the Lord, he is looking much more normal and more like a skinny little Yorkie.
Today Poppet and Hubby are off to town, her to have a Brazillian and he is going to do last minute shopping then visit a friend until Poppet is finished. Friends and family I wish you all a very Blessed Christmas, for those that are with family please take the time to enjoy every moment and for those that are not traveling and/or are planning a quiet day, enjoy and take some time to pamper yourself. To ALL please be super careful on the roads, beaches and anywhere else you may be. Let us all give thanks for the blessings we have received this year and share it with others. Merry Christmas to all.
Put two cushions up like a tent = one very content Zeepha hehe
Poppet arrived on Friday early evening, so we did a marathon shopping expedition in preparation for the weekend and Christmas and then had to play Tetris with the parcels and suitcases at the airport. This signified the END of my retail experiences and adventures until after the holidays!!!!!!! On Saturday BigBear and BabyBear came through and spent the weekend with us all which was an extra blessing, if only Big Guy had been able to join us. We seemed to be eating the entire weekend - really good meals to boot, played Mumbo Jumbo which truly never fails to cause stomach holding laughter. Yesterday more food and just lots of good conversations and catch ups and which was wonderful on all sides. There is nothing more precious to me, than time spent with family.
Speaking about Big Guy he received a call on Friday morning to say he got the position he had applied for and will begin working on the 2nd January, this is a huge answer to prayer as it has been four months of looking, trusting God, standing and not growing weary. Well done son, I could not be happier for you, you so deserve it, God is always faithful.
We had a slight scare with little Max our Yorkie as all of a sudden he looked like he had swallowed a rugby ball. He is coming up for 12 years old and very tiny, we have sadly seen a marked decline in his health over the last six months. My ever patient Hubby took him to the vet who, given his age did not want to do unnecessary scans, blood tests or X-rays before first trying more conservative methods of treating him. She dewormed him, put him on a diuretic pill and a pill for his liver. Praise the Lord, he is looking much more normal and more like a skinny little Yorkie.
Today Poppet and Hubby are off to town, her to have a Brazillian and he is going to do last minute shopping then visit a friend until Poppet is finished. Friends and family I wish you all a very Blessed Christmas, for those that are with family please take the time to enjoy every moment and for those that are not traveling and/or are planning a quiet day, enjoy and take some time to pamper yourself. To ALL please be super careful on the roads, beaches and anywhere else you may be. Let us all give thanks for the blessings we have received this year and share it with others. Merry Christmas to all.
Put two cushions up like a tent = one very content Zeepha hehe
Monday 16 December 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Tis the week before Christmas
My Life's Winding Roads: Tis the week before Christmas: Good morning one and all, in our house the count down has started as Princess lets us know every day how many more days we have left to Chri...
Tis the week before Christmas
Good morning one and all, in our house the count down has started as Princess lets us know every day how many more days we have left to Christmas. This truly has been one of the strangest years, in one sense I wonder where on earth it has gone and in the other, it feels like it has been never ending hmmmm I wonder if it is just me ?
This past week was fairly normal with some days of hectic activity and other days of pure holiday mode but possibly a little frustrating for the Princess. It was either blowing a gale, raining or so hot no one could venture out but she did manage to get in one brief beach session with Grandpa and a couple of sneaky tanning sessions on the deck. She also learnt to make Granny's rusks on Saturday and wow are they tasty, well done precious. Happily BabyBear is now home for the holidays and some much needed time with her hubby. Big Guy is waiting to hear back from an interview he did and in the meanwhile I think I can safely say has adjusted back into normal life and thoroughly enjoying it. Poppet is busy winding up her 'work year' and preparing for her holiday, she flys down on Friday afternoon to join us ..... See you soon angel.
My dear Hubby is actually busy working on my late Dad's watch, which I eventually found a little while back after 'losing' it in my kist #facepalm. It is just over 60 years old and is still one of the mechanical wind up watches, I can't wait for it to be working so I can wear it again.
Princess and I were talking last night about all the animals that are neglected in general, but especially over the holiday time, we have noticed that our little Village has become extremely busy over the weekend and the amount of dogs barking and carrying on is absolutely ridiculous. I understand that it is expensive to get a pet sitter or put them in a decent pet facility but, bringing them on holiday and then leaving them alone in a strange yard all day isn't fair to them or the those in the area. From there the conversation developed further to the heartbreak of those just left alone, thrown away, or taken to the SPCA. Something I have made a point of doing especially as I've grown older is to adopt a rescue when looking for a pet, but there are also so many ways of making a difference in an animals life, you may not be able to save them all, but you certainly can make a difference one by one. So many of the animal shelters are delighted if you take the time to go in to play with the animals, take dogs for a walk and just generally spend time with them. Princess has a VERY soft heart for all animals and would rescue them ALL if given half a chance. Our plea to you all is please look after your fur babies, if you are going away please ensure that they are properly and adequately looked after, check up on them while you are away. If you see an animal in distress please contact the relevant authorities and do your bit to make sure the animal is safe. I could really get on my soapbox with this topic - extending it to littering, the use of plastic etc, but, I will refrain for now. Please folks we are have been given the responsibility for this planet and for the pets we so eagerly buy then cast aside...... It's time that each one of us steps up to the plate and does our bit, however small it may seem to you. If every person on this planet stopped littering and picked up just one piece of litter every day can you imagine the overall impact ?
Off the soap box !!!! I wish you all a very blessed week, for those in SA enjoy the Public Holiday today, please, please stay safe, watch your little ones especially at the beach and around water and be careful on the roads. ( It has been a very tragic start to the festive season down here, so much of which could have easily been avoided ). It's love from my family to yours Ciao Ciao for now.
Jasper nose to tail in chill mode.
This past week was fairly normal with some days of hectic activity and other days of pure holiday mode but possibly a little frustrating for the Princess. It was either blowing a gale, raining or so hot no one could venture out but she did manage to get in one brief beach session with Grandpa and a couple of sneaky tanning sessions on the deck. She also learnt to make Granny's rusks on Saturday and wow are they tasty, well done precious. Happily BabyBear is now home for the holidays and some much needed time with her hubby. Big Guy is waiting to hear back from an interview he did and in the meanwhile I think I can safely say has adjusted back into normal life and thoroughly enjoying it. Poppet is busy winding up her 'work year' and preparing for her holiday, she flys down on Friday afternoon to join us ..... See you soon angel.
My dear Hubby is actually busy working on my late Dad's watch, which I eventually found a little while back after 'losing' it in my kist #facepalm. It is just over 60 years old and is still one of the mechanical wind up watches, I can't wait for it to be working so I can wear it again.
Princess and I were talking last night about all the animals that are neglected in general, but especially over the holiday time, we have noticed that our little Village has become extremely busy over the weekend and the amount of dogs barking and carrying on is absolutely ridiculous. I understand that it is expensive to get a pet sitter or put them in a decent pet facility but, bringing them on holiday and then leaving them alone in a strange yard all day isn't fair to them or the those in the area. From there the conversation developed further to the heartbreak of those just left alone, thrown away, or taken to the SPCA. Something I have made a point of doing especially as I've grown older is to adopt a rescue when looking for a pet, but there are also so many ways of making a difference in an animals life, you may not be able to save them all, but you certainly can make a difference one by one. So many of the animal shelters are delighted if you take the time to go in to play with the animals, take dogs for a walk and just generally spend time with them. Princess has a VERY soft heart for all animals and would rescue them ALL if given half a chance. Our plea to you all is please look after your fur babies, if you are going away please ensure that they are properly and adequately looked after, check up on them while you are away. If you see an animal in distress please contact the relevant authorities and do your bit to make sure the animal is safe. I could really get on my soapbox with this topic - extending it to littering, the use of plastic etc, but, I will refrain for now. Please folks we are have been given the responsibility for this planet and for the pets we so eagerly buy then cast aside...... It's time that each one of us steps up to the plate and does our bit, however small it may seem to you. If every person on this planet stopped littering and picked up just one piece of litter every day can you imagine the overall impact ?
Off the soap box !!!! I wish you all a very blessed week, for those in SA enjoy the Public Holiday today, please, please stay safe, watch your little ones especially at the beach and around water and be careful on the roads. ( It has been a very tragic start to the festive season down here, so much of which could have easily been avoided ). It's love from my family to yours Ciao Ciao for now.
Jasper nose to tail in chill mode.
Monday 9 December 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Puppy farms and a special visitor
My Life's Winding Roads: Puppy farms and a special visitor: Good morning good morning folks and now we find ourselves in December and at last we have our Princess here with us. She arrived on Wednesd...
Puppy farms and a special visitor
Good morning good morning folks and now we find ourselves in December and at last we have our Princess here with us. She arrived on Wednesday evening and it is just wonderful to have her here with us. At this point we haven't been to the beach yet as, apart from an unbelievably hot day where no one ventured outdoors the wind has been in its element and hasn't stopped. We are currently also experiencing Load Shedding which can become very tiresome to put it mildly. Today we are planning to go into Pringle Bay for a cup of coffee before she gets 'cabin fever'.
Princess & Zeepha after 2.5h of load shedding and the boredom level was at its peak. Zeepha spent half the time running up and down the back or the wardrobe #facepalm
It is exhausting being so cute
Last week was one of those crazy busy weeks, BUT, I can say I have done everything I needed to get done and am finished with all my Christmas shopping, whoop whoop. As I mentioned last week we went to chat to a lady who breeds Toy Poodles and that visit turned out to be very enlightening, I learnt a LOT. She had a poodle that she 'offered' to sell us as she had finished breeding with him, I am no expert but even I could see that he was not well bred, his teeth were badly aligned and she 'brushed' me off when I asked about it. It turns out she is actually not an ethical breeder and well known for this in the Western Cape. Folks please be careful when buying dogs from breeders who are just short of being puppy farms. She invited us for the chat when I told her I was looking for a rescue dog then tried to sell us her dog and got upset when I said I wasn't buying a dog for the price she was asking. I am now part of the Poodle Rescue Group and in time will get my little companion dog from them as a rescue.
Apart from that interesting adventure we managed to finish all our gift shopping, getting the house ready (annual year end clean), got the dogs groomed and bless their hearts they both came home sporting little bandanas and looking very proud of themselves. They will both be wearing them on Christmas Day to celebrate. The family are all well and busy winding up their year, I believe that everyone is truly glad this year is almost over and looking forward to relaxing over the holidays before a fresh start in 2020.
Yesterday my precious Hubby went off to Stellenbosch to play golf with a friend and even whilst he was gone I had someone coming to collect a clock, he is now known as the Betty's Bay Clock Man, and has quite a collection of various sizes up to a Grand Father Clock in different states of repair or awaiting collection - his garage is an interesting place I can tell you.
Please continue to pray for those people who are struggling in various areas, family, health, finances etc. You may not know who they are by name but our Heavenly Father knows exactly who is who and what each person's needs are. I seem to have come across so many in the last couple of weeks and praying is the only way I can be of any help especially from a distance. I wish you all a very special week folks, please stay safe and be especially observant of your children and where they are over the holidays. Ciao ciao.
Princess & Zeepha after 2.5h of load shedding and the boredom level was at its peak. Zeepha spent half the time running up and down the back or the wardrobe #facepalm
It is exhausting being so cute
Monday 2 December 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Road trips, rabbits, friends and poodles
My Life's Winding Roads: Road trips, rabbits, friends and poodles: Good morning folks and hello December. This year has been a real doozy, in one way it feels like it has disappeared so fast and in another ...
Road trips, rabbits, friends and poodles
Good morning folks and hello December. This year has been a real doozy, in one way it feels like it has disappeared so fast and in another it feels like it has gone on forever. In two sleeps we will have our gorgeous Princess here with us so, as you can imagine there is much activity and preparation going on. It was a crazy week and after today things should calm down considerably. Where to start ....... Last Monday we did a 'road trip' through to Noordhoek to visit the Bunny Rescue which was a very interesting experience as well as a long, HOT day. I have been looking for a 'companion pet' and was considering getting a pet rabbit, after a lot of research and speaking to quite a few people I came to the conclusion that a bunny probably isn't the wisest choice I could make. Yes they can be tamed and potty trained but apparently the likelihood of actually finding one that you can bond with on that level is quite difficult. Added to that I could see that Jelly Bean was having very real problems being around all the rabbits, she has a horror of rodents, although rabbits aren't classified as rodents they look very similar and after our mouse saga the week before, seeing mice at the sanctuary and then having another face to face encounter with one at our side door they are definitely not high on her favourite list at the moment hehe. With all that taken into consideration and, the fact that little Max has aged very rapidly in the last six months which would leave Sasha (Jelly Bean's dog) very lonely I have decided to go with a dog that I have always wanted, a Toy Poodle. Preferably a rescue and one which will become a 'companion pet', go everywhere with me and so on. To that end this afternoon, by pure chance we are meeting with a lady who is very well known in the Poodle fraternity and has asked me to come through for a chat.
The family are doing well, all the 'siblings' were in Johannesburg for the weekend and had a sibling lunch which really warms my heart, I got such beautiful photos of them all. Wish we were all going to be together for Christmas but it's not to be and so Poppet and Sonshine have taken charge and are planning all the festivities, it going to be a precious time and also Sonshine's first African Christmas.
Yesterday we had visitors over whom I knew back in the 80's when we Pastored our church down here, most of whom I had not seen in over 27 years. What a wonderful day of fellowship, food (thank you guys) and just great catching up. When time stands still and friends get together, always so precious to me. Zeepha was in full show off mode with the audience and apart from doing her zoomies around the room, also demonstrated her ability to run up, along and down the back of our cupboard, quite a little showstopper is this one. Last week she had her first foray outside on an extendable lead, it was so funny, the minute the harness was on she became a Munchkin cat and walked low to the ground exploring the deck before finally coming back inside out of the wind. I will do another walk sometime this week with her.
In closing a really good report about the young lady I mentioned last week who cut her arm so severely, she managed to complete her final Varsity exam using a scribe and passed, she also saw the specialist who is delighted with her progress. The thumb is still immobilized but there is definitely movement in her fingers and her prognosis is looking much better. Praise the Lord.
Folks, I wish you a wonderful week, please, please be careful on the roads, and in the sea / swimming pools over this season and always stay safe.
What you doing mommy?
Monday 25 November 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Trials, Tribulations and .... Eeeek a mouse !!!
My Life's Winding Roads: Trials, Tribulations and .... Eeeek a mouse !!!: Well, good morning world at the start of another beautiful week. We have had the most wonderful weather so far, a couple of humid /hot days...
Trials, Tribulations and .... Eeeek a mouse !!!
Well, good morning world at the start of another beautiful week. We have had the most wonderful weather so far, a couple of humid /hot days but nothing too unbearable which compared to last year is a major blessing.
Oh my gosh what a week we had, I wonder what I have to do to have a quiet, uneventful week ? On Monday we had the most delightful visit by friends /ex neighbors of ours from Johannesburg, it is always wonderful to spend a day catching up on news and friendships. On Tuesdsy after our dishwasher deciding to give up on life over the weekend my dearest Hubby had to go into Somerset West for a plethora of tasks and 'to do's'. As I started cleaning the house, I opened a kitchen drawer looking for a dishcloth and, saw a tiny little MOUSE scrambling to the back of the drawer .............. with a quiet oooh I closed the drawer, and then realized my mistake and took it out altogether somewhat cautiously. When I looked into the space there was a hole in the back of the board to allow an elctrical wire to run through, hmmmmm !!!!!!!! Wait, I have not one but TWO cats, so carefully removing the other three drawers, I grabbed Zeepha and shoved her into the space where she gladly went sniffing, right to the hole. Jasper in true brave spirit hid under the coffee table. That started the ball rolling - I emptied every drawer, washed ALL the contents and repacked each one, there was a lot of 'mouse evidence' but no mouse. Immediately after my "Oooh" Jelly Bean sequestered herself in her bedroom and informed us in no uncertain terms that she as not coming out at all, she has an ensuite bathroom and would take her meals in the room. Hahaha. That didn't last too long as her curiosity and worry about where the mouse was got the better of her. Once I got going I realized that there were these blasted holes here there and everywhere, so there was only one thing to do, empty every cupboard, clean it out, and put duct tape over every possible opening. It took me ALL day. We have not seen or heard of Mr Mouse again and Jelly Bean still stands far back when opening the drawers, she also still walks into the room with her eyes roving everywhere. Need I even say that I have paid the price physically since then ? Grrrrr, one of the worst things about Fibromyalgia is the frustration at not being who I was and not being capable of doing things I took for granted and did all my life. Hubby got home late and in half an hour had the dishwasher purring away in our now spic and span kitchen. He had a real busy week with trips out, coffee with his friend and a charity golf day on Friday, makes me envious.
There are SO many people who are going through incredibly hard times at the moment that it is like a tidal wave - one of my very dearest friends is recovering from a surgery to remove a cancerous breast lump and lymph glands and will be starting chemo and radiation soon, another friend's granddaughter about to write her finals at university, fell through a glass door, and in the Doctor's words "guillotined" her arm to the bone, before undergoing a four hour surgery. Praise the Lord for giving her an excellent surgeon who painstakingly reattached nerves, muscles, tendons and skin. By Thursday she had some movment in her fingers which is a miracle and we continue to pray for both of these beautiful woman for God's complete and perfect healing, His peace and strength to face the months ahead as He continues to heal them. Other people I know are without work, broken relationships and financial hardships just to name a few of the issues, and the list just seems to keep growing. There are many, many people hurting and feeling desperate, exhausted, lonely, stretched beyond their limits - more than anyone person can help individually. The only thing I can do is pray for each and every one that I am aware of, encourage them and more importantly LISTEN. Something I have learnt this year is to listen, not to interrupt, not to give advice but, just listen, to be there for them. The Bible tells us that God has given us the Holy Spirit to be our comforter -
John 14 v 26 ESV. Jesus said " But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to remembrance all that I have said to you."
John 14 v 16. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another helper, to be with you forever. 2 Corinthians 1 v 3,4. ESV. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in ALL our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity who enables Christian life by dwelling in individual believers and enables us to live a righteous and faithful life. The Holy Spirit acts
as our Comforter or Paraclete, one who intercedes, or supports or acts as an advocate, particularly in times of trial. Folks this is the only way I know how to survive through the deepest valleys and tribulations, to totally rely on God and by asking the Holy Spirit to give wisdom, guidance, to show me what to do. In closing I wish I could make all the bad disappear, I can't but, I can listen and pray. I want to encourage each one of you this week to give God all your fears, cares and burdens and to ask Him who created this earth to show you the way through, to bring the right people into your life, to open doors before you, to give you wisdom and strength, healing and peace and to turn your trial into a testimony for His Glory.
Have a truly blessed week, with love and prayers from me, go and be a blessing.
The joy of a sunset.
Oh my gosh what a week we had, I wonder what I have to do to have a quiet, uneventful week ? On Monday we had the most delightful visit by friends /ex neighbors of ours from Johannesburg, it is always wonderful to spend a day catching up on news and friendships. On Tuesdsy after our dishwasher deciding to give up on life over the weekend my dearest Hubby had to go into Somerset West for a plethora of tasks and 'to do's'. As I started cleaning the house, I opened a kitchen drawer looking for a dishcloth and, saw a tiny little MOUSE scrambling to the back of the drawer .............. with a quiet oooh I closed the drawer, and then realized my mistake and took it out altogether somewhat cautiously. When I looked into the space there was a hole in the back of the board to allow an elctrical wire to run through, hmmmmm !!!!!!!! Wait, I have not one but TWO cats, so carefully removing the other three drawers, I grabbed Zeepha and shoved her into the space where she gladly went sniffing, right to the hole. Jasper in true brave spirit hid under the coffee table. That started the ball rolling - I emptied every drawer, washed ALL the contents and repacked each one, there was a lot of 'mouse evidence' but no mouse. Immediately after my "Oooh" Jelly Bean sequestered herself in her bedroom and informed us in no uncertain terms that she as not coming out at all, she has an ensuite bathroom and would take her meals in the room. Hahaha. That didn't last too long as her curiosity and worry about where the mouse was got the better of her. Once I got going I realized that there were these blasted holes here there and everywhere, so there was only one thing to do, empty every cupboard, clean it out, and put duct tape over every possible opening. It took me ALL day. We have not seen or heard of Mr Mouse again and Jelly Bean still stands far back when opening the drawers, she also still walks into the room with her eyes roving everywhere. Need I even say that I have paid the price physically since then ? Grrrrr, one of the worst things about Fibromyalgia is the frustration at not being who I was and not being capable of doing things I took for granted and did all my life. Hubby got home late and in half an hour had the dishwasher purring away in our now spic and span kitchen. He had a real busy week with trips out, coffee with his friend and a charity golf day on Friday, makes me envious.
There are SO many people who are going through incredibly hard times at the moment that it is like a tidal wave - one of my very dearest friends is recovering from a surgery to remove a cancerous breast lump and lymph glands and will be starting chemo and radiation soon, another friend's granddaughter about to write her finals at university, fell through a glass door, and in the Doctor's words "guillotined" her arm to the bone, before undergoing a four hour surgery. Praise the Lord for giving her an excellent surgeon who painstakingly reattached nerves, muscles, tendons and skin. By Thursday she had some movment in her fingers which is a miracle and we continue to pray for both of these beautiful woman for God's complete and perfect healing, His peace and strength to face the months ahead as He continues to heal them. Other people I know are without work, broken relationships and financial hardships just to name a few of the issues, and the list just seems to keep growing. There are many, many people hurting and feeling desperate, exhausted, lonely, stretched beyond their limits - more than anyone person can help individually. The only thing I can do is pray for each and every one that I am aware of, encourage them and more importantly LISTEN. Something I have learnt this year is to listen, not to interrupt, not to give advice but, just listen, to be there for them. The Bible tells us that God has given us the Holy Spirit to be our comforter -
John 14 v 26 ESV. Jesus said " But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to remembrance all that I have said to you."
John 14 v 16. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another helper, to be with you forever. 2 Corinthians 1 v 3,4. ESV. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in ALL our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity who enables Christian life by dwelling in individual believers and enables us to live a righteous and faithful life. The Holy Spirit acts
as our Comforter or Paraclete, one who intercedes, or supports or acts as an advocate, particularly in times of trial. Folks this is the only way I know how to survive through the deepest valleys and tribulations, to totally rely on God and by asking the Holy Spirit to give wisdom, guidance, to show me what to do. In closing I wish I could make all the bad disappear, I can't but, I can listen and pray. I want to encourage each one of you this week to give God all your fears, cares and burdens and to ask Him who created this earth to show you the way through, to bring the right people into your life, to open doors before you, to give you wisdom and strength, healing and peace and to turn your trial into a testimony for His Glory.
Have a truly blessed week, with love and prayers from me, go and be a blessing.
The joy of a sunset.
Monday 18 November 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Rainbows, Bunnies and Dishwashers
My Life's Winding Roads: Rainbows, Bunnies and Dishwashers: It is a fresh new week in which we can make a difference and explore new possibilities. Wow, well with a busy week behind us and a lot more...
Sunday 17 November 2019
Rainbows, Bunnies and Dishwashers
It is a fresh new week in which we can make a difference and explore new possibilities. Wow, well with a busy week behind us and a lot more to come in the immediate future we roll into the end of 2019. I know this has been a very hard year for so many and all I can say is, well done !!! You have made it this far, you can make it until your new season.
Firstly, we are still being truly blessed with the weather - we have had mild, rainy, cloudy weather for the most part over the last couple of weeks and, compared to this time last year it is wonderful, although the humidity factor has been high. But yesterday I blessed Mother Nature, living down here and being exposed to the sometimes ruthless South Easter, it is very difficult to keep the windows clean with all the sea spray and dust etc., so usually we will just hose them down because by the time the next day comes around they are probably dirty again. When I looked at our windows on Friday I imagined a good deal more than a hosing was going to be needed, but we awoke on Saturday morning and behold, the world was crystal clear and sparkling - the night's wind and rain had done the job for us.
Last week Jelly Bean went through to visit Big Bear for a couple of days, so in keeping with 'tradition' we stored up all our stops and shopping to be done at the same time, it turned out to be a full 8 to 5 day and we were home for a mere half an hour before going to dinner with our dear friends at the Golf Estate just past Kleinmond where we had a truly lovely evening. I will admit that I was pretty whacked the following day and literally just rested and re-charged. On Thursday we made the trip again to collect JB but this time only three quarters of the way as BigBear was collecting his lovely wife from the airport and that is where we met up. Backing up to Tuesday briefly, one of our stops was a huge pet store to get cat-nip for the two blessings. Whilst there I asked to hold one of the baby bunnies, I had never held or owned one, oh my word they are just the cutest, cuddliest little poppets, I am quite smitten hehe.
The week just seemed to pass in a blur and apart from all the outings was a very productive one, clocks and watches just keep on rolling in and rolling right out again, they are really keeping my dear Hubby on his toes. In amongst all this our dishwasher has decided to become overly temperamental, making some truly awful noises and refusing to drain the water - Hubby worked on it and all seemed fine, until halfway through a cycle it started tripping the electricity #facepalm. So, yesterday it got pulled out, again, and for all the looking there would appear to be absolutely nothing wrong. Strangely the plug for the machine is in a 'corner' cupboard ....... I actively dislike these kinds of cupboards because unless you have arms twice the normal length, are a three year old or an octopus, they are impossible to pack and work with in general, I did have some choice things to say about whoever designed them! Once most of the things had been removed I could not just sit and leave it as it was and so a major clean up took place (under THE most difficult space constrictions), I discovered a few things we have been missing since we moved in, yay, and then enlisted my dear Hubbys help in re-packing the bottom shelf, he eventually did this by lying on his side and placing items inside, Aaaaargghhhhh. The dishwasher is no longer tripping the electricity, but is still not working properly or quietly, it also gave me a loving little zing when I touched the zinc so back to the tool box this week. In an aside I saw an ad on our local Buy & Sell Group asking if anyone had a lawnmower to sell as their lawnmower had "committed suicide in a spectacular fashion the day before" hahaha.
The family are all well, exams are almost finished and Princess will be here in just over two weeks so, much excitement and preparation ahead whoo hoo.
I would like to ask each of your reading this post to take a few minutes this week to bless a stranger or someone in need, it can be something as small as freezing a bottle of water overnight and handing it out to someone standing at a robot, just find a way of bringing some light and hope into another persons life. On that note folks, I am going to sign off for
now and wish you all a blessed, productive, healthy, happy week. Stay safe and aware out there please.
Some pics taken on our travels on Tuesday.
A exquisite Strelitzier at the Golf Estate.
Some pics taken on our travels on Tuesday.
A exquisite Strelitzier at the Golf Estate.
Monday 11 November 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: We can't always trust the experts 100%
My Life's Winding Roads: We can't always trust the experts 100%: Greetings to everyone from a peaceful, rainy, mild Betty's Bay, after four days of a pumping South Easter the silence is magical. As yo...
My Life's Winding Roads: We can't always trust the experts 100%
My Life's Winding Roads: We can't always trust the experts 100%: Greetings to everyone from a peaceful, rainy, mild Betty's Bay, after four days of a pumping South Easter the silence is magical. As yo...
We can't always trust the experts 100%
Greetings to everyone from a peaceful, rainy, mild Betty's Bay, after four days of a pumping South Easter the silence is magical. As you can imagine it has been a noisy few days with gale force gusts, but we have grown used to the sound, it is only when it stops and there is absolute stillness that we breathe a sigh and enjoy the silence.
Well folks, a fairly normal week, I tried out a new rusk recipe which turned out very well, Hubby loves them but I prefer my original recipe so I will continue to experiment and tweek my original recipe or, just make both. Actually, now that I come to think of it last week was one for trying new things. I also used a new method of doing my nails, which happily I can say was a resounding success. From doing an acrylic/gel overlay which takes a long time, I did acrylic dip and that is exactly what I have been looking for. It is much quicker, thinner and much stronger (my nails are so thin I can quite literally fold them over like paper), so I am delighted to have learnt a new technique. Oh yes, then I made peppermint cream sweets, they are delicious and if I'd had chocolate I would have dipped them (see the recipe).
Jelly Bean hasn't been well for more than a month and eventually conceded to going to the doctor, what an eye opener that appointment was. We have a wonderful, if very unusual doctor who adores Jelly Bean and every appointment ends up taking longer because of all the chatting. Anyway long story short, in all the chatting we got to discussing her current medications and I asked about one in particular .......... It turned out that these pills have special precautions which among others include Hyperglycemia !!!! Anxiety !! Weight gain ! and a host of other things that are in direct opposition to her other meds. Seriously, for a Type 1 Diabetic ? and this was prescribed by a previous Doctor when we moved down here. I was so annoyed and it just brought home to me that irrespective of WHO prescribes any medications, I am in future going to thoroughly read all packaging inserts and will question anything that seems odd, when it comes to your health or that of your loved ones, don't always accept in blind faith that the Doctor is right, do your research and if needs be, get a second opinion #lessonlearned. We are now in the process of weaning her off the above medication and praying for an improvement in her health.
Family wise everyone is well, all busy as usual as we head into the last phase of this year, somehow Christmas seems to have crept up on me, again. Yesterday when Big Guy sent a picture of his first xmas mince pie I suddenly realized I haven't had even ONE, haven't even looked or thought of them, and they only happen to be my most favourite thing, it's scandalous I tell you. Tomorrow we are going into the city and you can be assured mince pies will be in my shopping bag hehehe. In three weeks and two days Princess will be here with us so, much to be done in the meantime. Sadly this year neither Big Guy, Big Bear or Baby Bear will be here for Christmas, which is going to feel very
strange, we will however have Poppet, Sonshine and Princess here so I am looking forward to a different kind of Christmas.
Folks that is about it for this week, have a wonderful week, find something new to do and don't let all the stress and drama into your life, rather spread love and kindness. Stay safe out there, Ciao Ciao.
Zeepha watching for the elusive laser dot.
Bright Coral nails - acrylic dip
Well folks, a fairly normal week, I tried out a new rusk recipe which turned out very well, Hubby loves them but I prefer my original recipe so I will continue to experiment and tweek my original recipe or, just make both. Actually, now that I come to think of it last week was one for trying new things. I also used a new method of doing my nails, which happily I can say was a resounding success. From doing an acrylic/gel overlay which takes a long time, I did acrylic dip and that is exactly what I have been looking for. It is much quicker, thinner and much stronger (my nails are so thin I can quite literally fold them over like paper), so I am delighted to have learnt a new technique. Oh yes, then I made peppermint cream sweets, they are delicious and if I'd had chocolate I would have dipped them (see the recipe).
Jelly Bean hasn't been well for more than a month and eventually conceded to going to the doctor, what an eye opener that appointment was. We have a wonderful, if very unusual doctor who adores Jelly Bean and every appointment ends up taking longer because of all the chatting. Anyway long story short, in all the chatting we got to discussing her current medications and I asked about one in particular .......... It turned out that these pills have special precautions which among others include Hyperglycemia !!!! Anxiety !! Weight gain ! and a host of other things that are in direct opposition to her other meds. Seriously, for a Type 1 Diabetic ? and this was prescribed by a previous Doctor when we moved down here. I was so annoyed and it just brought home to me that irrespective of WHO prescribes any medications, I am in future going to thoroughly read all packaging inserts and will question anything that seems odd, when it comes to your health or that of your loved ones, don't always accept in blind faith that the Doctor is right, do your research and if needs be, get a second opinion #lessonlearned. We are now in the process of weaning her off the above medication and praying for an improvement in her health.
Family wise everyone is well, all busy as usual as we head into the last phase of this year, somehow Christmas seems to have crept up on me, again. Yesterday when Big Guy sent a picture of his first xmas mince pie I suddenly realized I haven't had even ONE, haven't even looked or thought of them, and they only happen to be my most favourite thing, it's scandalous I tell you. Tomorrow we are going into the city and you can be assured mince pies will be in my shopping bag hehehe. In three weeks and two days Princess will be here with us so, much to be done in the meantime. Sadly this year neither Big Guy, Big Bear or Baby Bear will be here for Christmas, which is going to feel very
strange, we will however have Poppet, Sonshine and Princess here so I am looking forward to a different kind of Christmas.
Folks that is about it for this week, have a wonderful week, find something new to do and don't let all the stress and drama into your life, rather spread love and kindness. Stay safe out there, Ciao Ciao.
Zeepha watching for the elusive laser dot.
Monday 4 November 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Rugby Fever, Hair and Family
My Life's Winding Roads: Rugby Fever, Hair and Family: Good morning one and all, I hope everyone is well and ready for the new week. Right now in BB it is a bright sunny day with a very brisk So...
Rugby Fever, Hair and Family
Good morning one and all, I hope everyone is well and ready for the new week. Right now in BB it is a bright sunny day with a very brisk South Easter blowing, great for getting the washing dry, but an acrobatic task to get it hung up..... Yaaay. Well what a weekend for South Africa with our Rugby team winning the Rugby World Cup, what a match, as well as two other Rugby awards. Hubby and I had booked at Glen Craig again to watch it as did many of the same people as last week, at one point in the match the entire room were on their feet, the shouts, the groans and whoops were amazing. Well done Bokke your brought a unity to our country that has been desperately needed, I pray that it will continue. Thank you for being such wonderful ambassadors of South Africa. I think the entire country is still celebrating and riding the wave of euphoria.
Apart from Saturday's excitement we had a fairly normal week, I had a marathon five hour session at the hairdresser, M you are an angel, in my 'next step' to lightening my hair, not an easy task I might add. I was really surprised when we had done the colour stripping part to see just how much ginger/red is in my hair, I've always known there's a lot of red, but not THAT much haha. I actually messaged BigBear and said that any possible future ginger grandchildren I take 50% responsibility for as he was born a true strawberry blonde and his dad was blonde. Anyway thanks to an awesome hairdresser and five hours later I emerged with considerably lighter hair and can say I am probably about 60 % towards my goal of being lighter and not yet ready to embrace my grey.
Of course no surprise that my hairdressing session left me pretty wiped out for most of the week grrrrr. Hubby has a constant stream of clocks and watches coming in and since his car repair abilities have become more widely known he is also getting call outs on broken down vehicles. He is currently busy working on one that 'died' on Saturday during the rugby and was towed to our house later that afternoon although, I do feel sorry for him as he has to work on them outside and therefore the elements play a big role in when he can do it.
The family are all doing well, Poppet is working hard, Princess is still writing exams which appear to be going well, the "Bears" are recovering from their Europe trip and getting back into the swing of things. Big Guy is actively looking for work and enjoying a normal life for the first time in twelve years. Miss Muffet and family spent five days in Malorca, Spain and are now safely home, and Jelly Bean is finally winning her 'war' over sinusitis which has dogged her for a month.
My gorgeous little Zeepha turned a whole one years old on Friday and is still only 2.4 kg, the way she eats she should easily weigh 6 kg hehe. Her all time favourite thing is FOOD, then hiding or sleeping In a box or basket - anything with sides, hiding in a big brown paper bag and waiting for someone or Jasper to walk past and then jumping out, and, let's not forget when she gets the zoomies and gallops around the house, climbing up the back of the wardrobe etc. There is never a dull moment I can assure you. Yesterday she was hiding in the paper bag and Jelly Bean came into the room, I could see that she was waiting and listening to JB approaching then, it all went wrong. Shame I felt so bad, Jelly Bean sneaked up so quietly that Zeepha clearly didn't realize how close she was, so when she reached down to touch the bag Zeepha got the biggest fright and all chaos ensued, she was very wary of the bag for about an hour afterwards. See video below.
Well folks, that's it for this week, I am going to try a new rusk recipe as well as a new method of doing my nails, so wish me luck. I pray you all have a blessed week, please continue to share love and kindness to those you come in contact with, let's keep the unity going. Stay safe this week, ciao ciao
Zeepha is the star this week
Apart from Saturday's excitement we had a fairly normal week, I had a marathon five hour session at the hairdresser, M you are an angel, in my 'next step' to lightening my hair, not an easy task I might add. I was really surprised when we had done the colour stripping part to see just how much ginger/red is in my hair, I've always known there's a lot of red, but not THAT much haha. I actually messaged BigBear and said that any possible future ginger grandchildren I take 50% responsibility for as he was born a true strawberry blonde and his dad was blonde. Anyway thanks to an awesome hairdresser and five hours later I emerged with considerably lighter hair and can say I am probably about 60 % towards my goal of being lighter and not yet ready to embrace my grey.
Of course no surprise that my hairdressing session left me pretty wiped out for most of the week grrrrr. Hubby has a constant stream of clocks and watches coming in and since his car repair abilities have become more widely known he is also getting call outs on broken down vehicles. He is currently busy working on one that 'died' on Saturday during the rugby and was towed to our house later that afternoon although, I do feel sorry for him as he has to work on them outside and therefore the elements play a big role in when he can do it.
The family are all doing well, Poppet is working hard, Princess is still writing exams which appear to be going well, the "Bears" are recovering from their Europe trip and getting back into the swing of things. Big Guy is actively looking for work and enjoying a normal life for the first time in twelve years. Miss Muffet and family spent five days in Malorca, Spain and are now safely home, and Jelly Bean is finally winning her 'war' over sinusitis which has dogged her for a month.
My gorgeous little Zeepha turned a whole one years old on Friday and is still only 2.4 kg, the way she eats she should easily weigh 6 kg hehe. Her all time favourite thing is FOOD, then hiding or sleeping In a box or basket - anything with sides, hiding in a big brown paper bag and waiting for someone or Jasper to walk past and then jumping out, and, let's not forget when she gets the zoomies and gallops around the house, climbing up the back of the wardrobe etc. There is never a dull moment I can assure you. Yesterday she was hiding in the paper bag and Jelly Bean came into the room, I could see that she was waiting and listening to JB approaching then, it all went wrong. Shame I felt so bad, Jelly Bean sneaked up so quietly that Zeepha clearly didn't realize how close she was, so when she reached down to touch the bag Zeepha got the biggest fright and all chaos ensued, she was very wary of the bag for about an hour afterwards. See video below.
Well folks, that's it for this week, I am going to try a new rusk recipe as well as a new method of doing my nails, so wish me luck. I pray you all have a blessed week, please continue to share love and kindness to those you come in contact with, let's keep the unity going. Stay safe this week, ciao ciao
Zeepha is the star this week
Monday 28 October 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Completed Tasks, Crazy Weather and Good Rugby.
My Life's Winding Roads: Completed Tasks, Crazy Weather and Good Rugby.: Good morning folks on this last Monday in October, where on earth has this month gone ? I am also wondering where last week vanished to, al...
Completed Tasks, Crazy Weather and Good Rugby.
Good morning folks on this last Monday in October, where on earth has this month gone ? I am also wondering where last week vanished to, although being busy definitely makes the time go quickly. I am happy to say that I have completed my task of sorting out my kist, all the photographs and cards, letters, certificates, memories etc. I can put my hands on literally almost anything within seconds, that is of course as long as I remember where I put them hahaha. Last week I found myself trying to put our big stove top kettle, from which I had just made tea, into the fridge ???? #facepalm.
Weather wise we had a very mild week which then turned on Friday when a cold front passed through. You have to love the Cape - Friday brought the temperatures down to about 13 c and we measured over 100 mm of rain, our gauge actually over flowed. After getting thoroughly drenched just getting from the car to the house we lit a fire and reveled in the warmth, whilst watching some leaks become mini dams, I see some maintenance in our immediate future. Saturday dawned cloudless, windless and dry as a bone, I am convinced almost every woman in BB spent Saturday doing washing and airing out their home. Yesterday the wind picked up again and by mid morning the rain came pelting down and continued to pour all afternoon and still on and off, we have not checked the rain gauge as yet, but it is a cool 9 c. From one extreme to the other and back again and all this whilst most of the country is in the grip of a second, back to back heatwave.
On Friday my very multi-talented Hubby was asked by friends of ours if he would go and help them as their car had stopped and was completely dead. Off he went and discovered that when it had been serviced a week ago, the battery clamp was not tightened properly. So a quick fix and then as a result, after they thanked him on the BB What's App Group, he received another call for another car that was immobile. That was not a fixable solution as it was a rental car and their was far too much wrong with it, he had no sooner got home than our friend phoned and asked if he could come around as the car was making a strange noise. After a quick drive my Hubby discovered that the noise was being caused by the brake hose not being put into its bracket properly (at the service), as a result the tyre had worn it away causing all the brake fluid to leak out......... and all this done by a reputable garage in the city ..... not !!!! Needless to say the damaged hose is going to be returned to the garage and many questions will be asked, in the meantime Jelly Bean has let them use her vehicle. Someone on the Group on Friday commented by saying that my Hubby is like an onion, so many layers because he also repaired some watches for her. Busy weekend.
Yesterday BigBear and BabyBear landed safely back in South Africa after what appears to have been an incredible holiday in Europe, I can't wait to hear all about it. Hubby and I went through to Pringle Bay to the Glen Craig Conference Centre to watch the rugby, what a difference it was compared to where we have watched the previous games. In short not
only a fabulous venue, really good food, plus we won the semi final match against Wales, what a game !!!! Well done to our Springboks who played like the stars they are. Before leaving we immediately booked for next week's final which I am really looking forward to.
Along with many other children in the country, today our Princess starts writing her year end exams. To all the kids writing I wish you good luck, take a deep breath and work steadily through your papers, I pray for supernatural recall of all the work you've learnt and been taught as well as God's peace whilst you write each exam. To all the parents, hang in there and encourage your children to do their best, let's try not to add to their pressure during the next few weeks.
As for me ...... Today is stage two on my hair highlight journey, eeeek, wish me luck right now I could probably pass on the grey ombré look LOL.
Well folks that's it for this week, I wish you all a wonderful, blessed week. Take time to pamper yourself - even if it's something small like a long bubble bath with candles and a glass of wine, this year has been harsh and so many people are on the edge of burn out. Remember your light/candle cannot shine or share warmth with someone else if your wick is burnt out, take care of yourselves in order to be able to bless others. Stay safe out there. Ciao ciao.
Our very own 'tablecloth' on the mountain.
Weather wise we had a very mild week which then turned on Friday when a cold front passed through. You have to love the Cape - Friday brought the temperatures down to about 13 c and we measured over 100 mm of rain, our gauge actually over flowed. After getting thoroughly drenched just getting from the car to the house we lit a fire and reveled in the warmth, whilst watching some leaks become mini dams, I see some maintenance in our immediate future. Saturday dawned cloudless, windless and dry as a bone, I am convinced almost every woman in BB spent Saturday doing washing and airing out their home. Yesterday the wind picked up again and by mid morning the rain came pelting down and continued to pour all afternoon and still on and off, we have not checked the rain gauge as yet, but it is a cool 9 c. From one extreme to the other and back again and all this whilst most of the country is in the grip of a second, back to back heatwave.
On Friday my very multi-talented Hubby was asked by friends of ours if he would go and help them as their car had stopped and was completely dead. Off he went and discovered that when it had been serviced a week ago, the battery clamp was not tightened properly. So a quick fix and then as a result, after they thanked him on the BB What's App Group, he received another call for another car that was immobile. That was not a fixable solution as it was a rental car and their was far too much wrong with it, he had no sooner got home than our friend phoned and asked if he could come around as the car was making a strange noise. After a quick drive my Hubby discovered that the noise was being caused by the brake hose not being put into its bracket properly (at the service), as a result the tyre had worn it away causing all the brake fluid to leak out......... and all this done by a reputable garage in the city ..... not !!!! Needless to say the damaged hose is going to be returned to the garage and many questions will be asked, in the meantime Jelly Bean has let them use her vehicle. Someone on the Group on Friday commented by saying that my Hubby is like an onion, so many layers because he also repaired some watches for her. Busy weekend.
Yesterday BigBear and BabyBear landed safely back in South Africa after what appears to have been an incredible holiday in Europe, I can't wait to hear all about it. Hubby and I went through to Pringle Bay to the Glen Craig Conference Centre to watch the rugby, what a difference it was compared to where we have watched the previous games. In short not
only a fabulous venue, really good food, plus we won the semi final match against Wales, what a game !!!! Well done to our Springboks who played like the stars they are. Before leaving we immediately booked for next week's final which I am really looking forward to.
Along with many other children in the country, today our Princess starts writing her year end exams. To all the kids writing I wish you good luck, take a deep breath and work steadily through your papers, I pray for supernatural recall of all the work you've learnt and been taught as well as God's peace whilst you write each exam. To all the parents, hang in there and encourage your children to do their best, let's try not to add to their pressure during the next few weeks.
As for me ...... Today is stage two on my hair highlight journey, eeeek, wish me luck right now I could probably pass on the grey ombré look LOL.
Well folks that's it for this week, I wish you all a wonderful, blessed week. Take time to pamper yourself - even if it's something small like a long bubble bath with candles and a glass of wine, this year has been harsh and so many people are on the edge of burn out. Remember your light/candle cannot shine or share warmth with someone else if your wick is burnt out, take care of yourselves in order to be able to bless others. Stay safe out there. Ciao ciao.
Our very own 'tablecloth' on the mountain.
Monday 21 October 2019
History, Memories and Old Friends.
Good morning all, I suddenly realized just how far into this year we are and got quite a shock, it's 60 something days until Christmas, what happened? The weeks just seem to fly past and I guess being retired and not seeing the date every day has something to do with it, but it really feels like half of the year just disappeared.
This last week was one of those 'flying' week's catching up of some chores in the house and then all because of one photograph that I was looking for it ended up being a complete clean out and re-organization - of my kist. There was one pic I needed to find and once I got started then there was no stopping, let me say I've had my kist since I was 16 and quite literally it contains my life history. The ONLY way to do it last week turned out that I emptied the entire contents onto the floor, mountains of things, right down to and including sweeping up all the bits and pieces at the bottom. I then started separating things, vacuum packed kids toys, putting things in order and boxing accordingly, at one point my Hubby walked in for about the 5th time and stated that there was no way I as going to finish in one day. Seeing as how I just cannot live with things lying around it was not an option, I had to finish and I did with the exception of one bag of cards and letters and two boxes of photographs which I am going to sort out this week. Since my talented Hubby started working on watches and clocks this year I have looked more than once throughout the year for my Dad's watch which I inherited when he passed away in 1969, it has been in my kist for all these years and through all the moves I made, but despite looking for it I hadn't been able to find it and was really heart sore that in preparing for the move to BB I had somehow thrown it out. Just as I was closing up for the day I found a small clear plastic box that had photos in and was about to add it to the picture pile when I turned them into my hand and felt an odd shape, lo and behold, there wrapped in Carlton paper was Dad's watch. From what Hubby can see it was made in 1947 and at this stage it looks like he will be able to fix it, as it is not a huge masculine watch in today's terms I will then be able to wear it again for the first time since I was about 16, I cannot express how totally blessed I feel. I will post a pic when it is working. Needless to say that Thursday's activities left me exhausted and in agony all through Friday, but then came the weekend.
As a birthday gift to my dear Hubby on reaching the grand age of 70 Mr & Mrs Muffet in the UK blessed us with a meal voucher for a very smart restaurant just outside of Somerset West, 96 on Winery. We had been there before for my birthday in 2016 and decided to make the reservation for Saturday, I am talking fine dining, Masterchef dining. We were so totally blessed and had a wonderful meal, I didn't make quite the best choice of a main dish, but that aside the whole experience was incredible. They also have a glass fronted fridge which I could see had something white on the shelves and couldn't t work out what it was, being me of course I asked. Apparently the way they age their beef is to completely cover it in rendered whale fat and leave it for a period of time, the beef then absorbs the fat causing a lot of marbling to take place whithout drying the meat out too much. That was the very last thing I would have guessed when I asked. From there we went on to meet two ladies who had been in the Church my late husband and I started in Cape Town back in 1982, they were the reason for looking for the picture hehe. We haven't seen each other for more than 27 years were instantly recognizable and what a wonderful time we spent with S and L, soooo many things to talk about and catch up with that even after I got home I was still thinking about things I meant to ask, it always amazes and blesses me when re-connecting with some people after years and years that one can carry on as if you saw each other last week, these types of connections are always like gold to me and I treasure every moment.
Yesterday seeing as South Africa was playing in the Quarter Final of the Rugby World Cup
Hubby and I went up to the local pub to watch the game, well done to the Springboks who did us proud. The family are all well although I believe Big Guy, Poppet, Princess and Sonshine are all busy melting up in Gauteng as they enter a second week of heatwave, sorry guys. BigBear and BabyBear are having an absolute ball in Europe and have made us all very envious with the incredible pics they have been taking. Today they are on their way to Munich which is their last stop before returning to Italy for their flights home at the weekend, safe and happy travels guys.
Jasper caught his first ever bird on Friday night and was very proudly sitting with it when Hubby came through on Saturday morning #facepalm, I'm hoping he doesn't make a habit of this. Little Zeepha is happy as long as she can find a box or packet to play in and had a blast when I was busy with the kist, in and out and all over the show. She is currently obsessed with the laser light I bought and will sit for hours near me waiting for it to turn on, I have it clipped to my iPad cover so have become even more popular with her haha.
Well folks this was a long Blog so I am going to say Ciao Ciao for now, have a wonderful week wherever you are and don't forget to always take some time to appreciate the small and things in life, the smell of a flower or the ocean, time with a friend or loved one, those little moments that just happen and are usually just glossed over. Be safe out there.
Some pics from Saturday Lunch.
This last week was one of those 'flying' week's catching up of some chores in the house and then all because of one photograph that I was looking for it ended up being a complete clean out and re-organization - of my kist. There was one pic I needed to find and once I got started then there was no stopping, let me say I've had my kist since I was 16 and quite literally it contains my life history. The ONLY way to do it last week turned out that I emptied the entire contents onto the floor, mountains of things, right down to and including sweeping up all the bits and pieces at the bottom. I then started separating things, vacuum packed kids toys, putting things in order and boxing accordingly, at one point my Hubby walked in for about the 5th time and stated that there was no way I as going to finish in one day. Seeing as how I just cannot live with things lying around it was not an option, I had to finish and I did with the exception of one bag of cards and letters and two boxes of photographs which I am going to sort out this week. Since my talented Hubby started working on watches and clocks this year I have looked more than once throughout the year for my Dad's watch which I inherited when he passed away in 1969, it has been in my kist for all these years and through all the moves I made, but despite looking for it I hadn't been able to find it and was really heart sore that in preparing for the move to BB I had somehow thrown it out. Just as I was closing up for the day I found a small clear plastic box that had photos in and was about to add it to the picture pile when I turned them into my hand and felt an odd shape, lo and behold, there wrapped in Carlton paper was Dad's watch. From what Hubby can see it was made in 1947 and at this stage it looks like he will be able to fix it, as it is not a huge masculine watch in today's terms I will then be able to wear it again for the first time since I was about 16, I cannot express how totally blessed I feel. I will post a pic when it is working. Needless to say that Thursday's activities left me exhausted and in agony all through Friday, but then came the weekend.
As a birthday gift to my dear Hubby on reaching the grand age of 70 Mr & Mrs Muffet in the UK blessed us with a meal voucher for a very smart restaurant just outside of Somerset West, 96 on Winery. We had been there before for my birthday in 2016 and decided to make the reservation for Saturday, I am talking fine dining, Masterchef dining. We were so totally blessed and had a wonderful meal, I didn't make quite the best choice of a main dish, but that aside the whole experience was incredible. They also have a glass fronted fridge which I could see had something white on the shelves and couldn't t work out what it was, being me of course I asked. Apparently the way they age their beef is to completely cover it in rendered whale fat and leave it for a period of time, the beef then absorbs the fat causing a lot of marbling to take place whithout drying the meat out too much. That was the very last thing I would have guessed when I asked. From there we went on to meet two ladies who had been in the Church my late husband and I started in Cape Town back in 1982, they were the reason for looking for the picture hehe. We haven't seen each other for more than 27 years were instantly recognizable and what a wonderful time we spent with S and L, soooo many things to talk about and catch up with that even after I got home I was still thinking about things I meant to ask, it always amazes and blesses me when re-connecting with some people after years and years that one can carry on as if you saw each other last week, these types of connections are always like gold to me and I treasure every moment.
Yesterday seeing as South Africa was playing in the Quarter Final of the Rugby World Cup
Hubby and I went up to the local pub to watch the game, well done to the Springboks who did us proud. The family are all well although I believe Big Guy, Poppet, Princess and Sonshine are all busy melting up in Gauteng as they enter a second week of heatwave, sorry guys. BigBear and BabyBear are having an absolute ball in Europe and have made us all very envious with the incredible pics they have been taking. Today they are on their way to Munich which is their last stop before returning to Italy for their flights home at the weekend, safe and happy travels guys.
Jasper caught his first ever bird on Friday night and was very proudly sitting with it when Hubby came through on Saturday morning #facepalm, I'm hoping he doesn't make a habit of this. Little Zeepha is happy as long as she can find a box or packet to play in and had a blast when I was busy with the kist, in and out and all over the show. She is currently obsessed with the laser light I bought and will sit for hours near me waiting for it to turn on, I have it clipped to my iPad cover so have become even more popular with her haha.
Well folks this was a long Blog so I am going to say Ciao Ciao for now, have a wonderful week wherever you are and don't forget to always take some time to appreciate the small and things in life, the smell of a flower or the ocean, time with a friend or loved one, those little moments that just happen and are usually just glossed over. Be safe out there.
Some pics from Saturday Lunch.
Monday 14 October 2019
A different kind of week.
Good morning folks from a bright and breezy Betty's Bay, we have clouds moving over the mountains and the sea is looking a lot calmer than yesterday. Thankfully apart from a few exceptions our weather is still wonderful and mild with most evenings still being chilly enough to need a jersey, I am definitely not complaining.
Last week was a very odd week in some respects, on Moday we left home early with a long list of things which needed attending to in the City, starting off with meeting BigBear for coffee and catch up to say goodbye before his trip. From there we went into town where Hubby dropped Jelly Bean and I off at the Lifestyle Centre - our favourite bookshop Readers Warehouse is there, while he went to get watch spares etc. From there it was back to Somerset West with a few stops before eventually getting home late in the afternoon. A day well spent. Unfortunately so well spent on my part that I was woman down for most of the rest of the week. This is the first time I have dealt with Fibro exhaustion on that level, I am always tired and without energy but last week was an exception, I spent the next three days doing only the essentials in the house and spending the rest of my time on the bed reading or sleeping, so not me, BUT I am getting better at knowing when to stop and rest. I will say this though - it is beyond frustrating and annoying. My precious Hubby is as always busy with watches and clocks coming in and going out, it's a never ending stream.
Sonshine eventually arrived in South Africa last week and we now have two very happy girls up in Pretoria. He had previously booked a session for Princess to do a tandem sky diving jump, he is a skydiver and usually videos people who are jumping. So yesterday off they all went and my gorgeous Princess did her very first Skydive with Sonshine jumping alongside of her and keeping pace. Sh was incredibly nervous, and WAAY braver than I could ever be and did it with style and enjoyed it. We have a video which is absolutely amazing, and this was a young girl who last Monday was in hospital on five drips with some unknown virus that was doing the rounds. She is still not 100% but slowly on the mend, thank the Lord.
As I type this BigBear and BabyBear are on their way to Venice from Rome, where they have been for the last two days. From all the amazing photos we've seen they are having a fantastic time doing a huge amount of walking and literally seeing everything possible.
Last week I made the 'mistake' of buying a new LED light for the cats and am now sitting with a certain little tabby who spends 80% of her day watching my every movement (the light is attached to my iPad cover). She is totally obsessed with it and with the slightest jingle she is up and looking everywhere frantically, shame I feel bad that I have created this obsession.
We also caught sight of the Dikkop family briefly last week, but only saw one chick with them, I'm hoping the other one was just sleeping somewhere safely as they are very protective parents.
Folks not a lot of other news to share right now, please don't forget to keep an eye on the other pages of this Blog as I randomly add things to them. I wish you all a healthy, happy and safe week. As you go about your business, spread some love and goodwill to those you come into contact with, you never know what the other person is going through. For those who are local in South Africa I would encourage you to go and have a look at the Facebook page #IAMSTAYING, if you haven't alreaday joined. It is a group that was started about three or four weeks ago and the last time I looked was sitting on over 700 000 members of every spectrum of our country and filled with good stories about the kindness and love that South Africans have for one another. Ciao Ciao for now with love from BB.
The beautiful Trevi Fountain In Rome
Last week was a very odd week in some respects, on Moday we left home early with a long list of things which needed attending to in the City, starting off with meeting BigBear for coffee and catch up to say goodbye before his trip. From there we went into town where Hubby dropped Jelly Bean and I off at the Lifestyle Centre - our favourite bookshop Readers Warehouse is there, while he went to get watch spares etc. From there it was back to Somerset West with a few stops before eventually getting home late in the afternoon. A day well spent. Unfortunately so well spent on my part that I was woman down for most of the rest of the week. This is the first time I have dealt with Fibro exhaustion on that level, I am always tired and without energy but last week was an exception, I spent the next three days doing only the essentials in the house and spending the rest of my time on the bed reading or sleeping, so not me, BUT I am getting better at knowing when to stop and rest. I will say this though - it is beyond frustrating and annoying. My precious Hubby is as always busy with watches and clocks coming in and going out, it's a never ending stream.
Sonshine eventually arrived in South Africa last week and we now have two very happy girls up in Pretoria. He had previously booked a session for Princess to do a tandem sky diving jump, he is a skydiver and usually videos people who are jumping. So yesterday off they all went and my gorgeous Princess did her very first Skydive with Sonshine jumping alongside of her and keeping pace. Sh was incredibly nervous, and WAAY braver than I could ever be and did it with style and enjoyed it. We have a video which is absolutely amazing, and this was a young girl who last Monday was in hospital on five drips with some unknown virus that was doing the rounds. She is still not 100% but slowly on the mend, thank the Lord.
As I type this BigBear and BabyBear are on their way to Venice from Rome, where they have been for the last two days. From all the amazing photos we've seen they are having a fantastic time doing a huge amount of walking and literally seeing everything possible.
Last week I made the 'mistake' of buying a new LED light for the cats and am now sitting with a certain little tabby who spends 80% of her day watching my every movement (the light is attached to my iPad cover). She is totally obsessed with it and with the slightest jingle she is up and looking everywhere frantically, shame I feel bad that I have created this obsession.
We also caught sight of the Dikkop family briefly last week, but only saw one chick with them, I'm hoping the other one was just sleeping somewhere safely as they are very protective parents.
Folks not a lot of other news to share right now, please don't forget to keep an eye on the other pages of this Blog as I randomly add things to them. I wish you all a healthy, happy and safe week. As you go about your business, spread some love and goodwill to those you come into contact with, you never know what the other person is going through. For those who are local in South Africa I would encourage you to go and have a look at the Facebook page #IAMSTAYING, if you haven't alreaday joined. It is a group that was started about three or four weeks ago and the last time I looked was sitting on over 700 000 members of every spectrum of our country and filled with good stories about the kindness and love that South Africans have for one another. Ciao Ciao for now with love from BB.
The beautiful Trevi Fountain In Rome
Monday 7 October 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Globe trotting family.
My Life's Winding Roads: Globe trotting family.: Good morning one and all, I trust today's Blog finds everyone well. We are all well despite all the comings and goings our family seems...
Globe trotting family.
Good morning one and all, I trust today's Blog finds everyone well. We are all well despite all the comings and goings our family seems to be busy with at the moment. Last week was another birthday week for us with Poppet celebrating her 40th on Thursday and my precious Hubby his 70th on Saturday. Gosh where does the time go ? I remember all their births as if they were yesterday and sometimes it's hard to believe that so much has passed. Poppet's friends organized a special birthday dinner and celebration for her which meant so much, especially with it being a 'big' one hehe. On Saturday we went through to Somerset West to a morning market where I had discovered there was a guy trading who deals in old watches, spares and instruments, so whilst the birthday boy immersed himself in all things Horological Jelly Bean and I browsed the rest of the stalls. It was actually very relaxed and not overly busy which is always a win for me. We have a 'tradition' in our family that the birthday person gets to choose their favourite meal or generally place to eat, Hubby could not have made a better choice. After the market we headed back to Kleinmond and went to a smallish restaurant /pub right at the Harbour, which we've frequented before and were super happy to find that they are busy expanding as well. There we had possibly the freshest fish I've ever eaten with yummy chips and Jelly Bean ordered Calamari and chips, oh my word, the servings were huge and perfectly cooked especially the calamari, which will be my 'go to' in future. After all that we went and found soft serve ice creams and finished off our celebration. A perfectly beautiful day.
Apart from my precious man going back and forth to Somerset West numerous times last week and Jelly Bean and I taking a quick trip into Kleinmond for some shopping and girl time, I spent most of the week catching up on domestic chores baking, (defrosting the fridge UGHH) etc and then catching up with myself and resting.
It sounds like Big Guy had an epic holiday in Thailand, I'm still waiting to hear all the stories but going on what we know and the magnificant photos he took he had an absolute ball. He is now safely back home having arrived on Saturday morning after a seriously long trip. What 'people' don't take into account when designing planes, seats, beds etc, is that not everyone is of normal height. Trying to squish a 6'7" frame/legs into an aeroplane seat is torture, especially when doing long haul flights. I'm 5'11" and I struggle. This week it is BigBear and BabyBear's turn as they leave for their Europian holiday on Friday. They will be landing in Italy and traveling through Europe for the next two weeks. I will admit I am extremely jealous and my feet are 'itching'. Enjoy guys and here's hoping you get roomy seats - BigBear is 6'8" so just as difficult. Princess had a two day athletics trip to Bloemfontein on Friday/Saturday and broke her personal best record twice, well done my angel we are so proud of you.
In closing I don't know how many of you will remember my mini rant awhile ago about people chasing 'our' nesting Dikkop birds? We'll eventually they found themselves a little place against our fence and have been sitting on their eggs quite peacefully, on Thursday when Jelly Bean and I went into town we noticed they were gone, but delighted to see them busy moving their two babies to a safer area. We saw them in exactly the same spot as last year only this time the chicks are much smaller, it is such a joy to be able to watch the wildlife here as they carry on with their lives knowing that for the most part they are safe.
I wish you all a wonderful week, please stay safe and spread some love around. Ciao ciao
Mr & Mrs Dikkop with their new babies.
Apart from my precious man going back and forth to Somerset West numerous times last week and Jelly Bean and I taking a quick trip into Kleinmond for some shopping and girl time, I spent most of the week catching up on domestic chores baking, (defrosting the fridge UGHH) etc and then catching up with myself and resting.
It sounds like Big Guy had an epic holiday in Thailand, I'm still waiting to hear all the stories but going on what we know and the magnificant photos he took he had an absolute ball. He is now safely back home having arrived on Saturday morning after a seriously long trip. What 'people' don't take into account when designing planes, seats, beds etc, is that not everyone is of normal height. Trying to squish a 6'7" frame/legs into an aeroplane seat is torture, especially when doing long haul flights. I'm 5'11" and I struggle. This week it is BigBear and BabyBear's turn as they leave for their Europian holiday on Friday. They will be landing in Italy and traveling through Europe for the next two weeks. I will admit I am extremely jealous and my feet are 'itching'. Enjoy guys and here's hoping you get roomy seats - BigBear is 6'8" so just as difficult. Princess had a two day athletics trip to Bloemfontein on Friday/Saturday and broke her personal best record twice, well done my angel we are so proud of you.
In closing I don't know how many of you will remember my mini rant awhile ago about people chasing 'our' nesting Dikkop birds? We'll eventually they found themselves a little place against our fence and have been sitting on their eggs quite peacefully, on Thursday when Jelly Bean and I went into town we noticed they were gone, but delighted to see them busy moving their two babies to a safer area. We saw them in exactly the same spot as last year only this time the chicks are much smaller, it is such a joy to be able to watch the wildlife here as they carry on with their lives knowing that for the most part they are safe.
I wish you all a wonderful week, please stay safe and spread some love around. Ciao ciao
Mr & Mrs Dikkop with their new babies.
Monday 30 September 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Family time, bees and penguins
My Life's Winding Roads: Family time, bees and penguins: Good morning friends and family from a very quiet, happily cool BB. Gee what a busy two weeks we have had, but the most wonderful two weeks...
Family time, bees and penguins
Good morning friends and family from a very quiet, happily cool BB. Gee what a busy two weeks we have had, but the most wonderful two weeks. Last week while Big Guy was busy jetting off to Thailand we had Poppet and Princess here for a visit, even though Poppet had to work we had the most fabulous time together. We caught up on all the news, gossip, drama and just generally had a really good time together. Its not often I get time with all my side of the family almost in such a short space of time, my 'mom' batteries are all fully charged. Big Guy is having a ball on his holiday and tantalizing us with all the beautiful photos he is taking, enjoy your very moment son. BigBear and BabyBear are going flat out in preparation of their overseas holiday next week, the family are all busy and happy.
Wouldn't you know it ? No sooner had I posted that the bee invasion was over, when I looked out and lo and behold there they were grrrrr. We did some extra reading up and have started off with pinching the spout of the the water bottle (in the middle) so that they can't actually get into the bottle. This seems to be working, so far, they still come around, but not in huge numbers and the birds are getting braver and chase them away. The ongoing bee saga .......... On Friday afternoon when Poppet had finished working we went to the restaurant at Stony Point, which is the big penguin colony in Betty's Bay, it is estimated that there are approximately 3 600 penguins currently and growing in number, which is quite an increase from the original 2 penguins in 1985. Sadly the restaurant proved to be a huge disappointment but the view was great and Princess was able to take some gorgeous photos. Jelly Bean had gone on ahead to the car and by the time we got there she was in 'deep communication' with one of the Penguins who likes to take charge of the car park, she named him Percy and he is really cute.
This week is going to be a quiet one and I intend to do some catch up baking and generally taking it easy. This weekend was womderfully cold and we had rain the whole of yesterday, I must confess that I slept a lot which is totally unlike me, I never sleep during the day. I have found myself in a bad Fibro Flare but am finally learning when to rest and take time out. Whoop whoop.
Folks apart from all the family news that's it for this week, I wish you all a good week, be kind to yourselves and please stay safe. Ciao Ciao .
'Percy at Stoney Point Penguin Colony'
A penguin and a dassie sharing some sun.
Wouldn't you know it ? No sooner had I posted that the bee invasion was over, when I looked out and lo and behold there they were grrrrr. We did some extra reading up and have started off with pinching the spout of the the water bottle (in the middle) so that they can't actually get into the bottle. This seems to be working, so far, they still come around, but not in huge numbers and the birds are getting braver and chase them away. The ongoing bee saga .......... On Friday afternoon when Poppet had finished working we went to the restaurant at Stony Point, which is the big penguin colony in Betty's Bay, it is estimated that there are approximately 3 600 penguins currently and growing in number, which is quite an increase from the original 2 penguins in 1985. Sadly the restaurant proved to be a huge disappointment but the view was great and Princess was able to take some gorgeous photos. Jelly Bean had gone on ahead to the car and by the time we got there she was in 'deep communication' with one of the Penguins who likes to take charge of the car park, she named him Percy and he is really cute.
This week is going to be a quiet one and I intend to do some catch up baking and generally taking it easy. This weekend was womderfully cold and we had rain the whole of yesterday, I must confess that I slept a lot which is totally unlike me, I never sleep during the day. I have found myself in a bad Fibro Flare but am finally learning when to rest and take time out. Whoop whoop.
Folks apart from all the family news that's it for this week, I wish you all a good week, be kind to yourselves and please stay safe. Ciao Ciao .
'Percy at Stoney Point Penguin Colony'
Monday 23 September 2019
My Life's Winding Roads: Family, whales, elastic and the rugby
My Life's Winding Roads: Family, whales, elastic and the rugby: Good morning folks from a crisp, bright Betty's Bay. Big Guy arrived last Tuesday and even though it was a brief visit we managed to pa...
Family, whales, elastic and the rugby
Good morning folks from a crisp, bright Betty's Bay. Big Guy arrived last Tuesday and even though it was a brief visit we managed to pack a whole lot into the short time. There was much catch up, a delicious meal prepared by the 'Man' himself which was a real treat. On Thursday we went through to Hermanus and can you believe it, we actually saw some whales ........ Hmmm let me rephrase that, we heard the Whale Crier and he showed us where they were, we saw the spout and a brief view of its back. We wandered through market and then found a stunning restaurant called The Wooden Barrel, while we ordered my dear Hubby walked back to move the car closer and can you believe it he actually saw the whale hit its tale on the water #sadface. As for lunch it is going to be a definite 'go back' as far as I am concerned, their food was wonderful, the service friendly and prompt, basically a perfect meal. After all that we went through to the Mall in Hermanus and did some quick shopping and stopped for a quick drink before heading home tired but happy. Friday my precious Hubby had to take Max our Yorkie to the Vet, for months his one eye tooth was loose and after standing out sideways it eventually fell out, it never seemed to bother him, then r century the other eye tooth did the same thing and last week we realized that it was really causing him a lot of discomfort so after speaking to the Vet Hubby left early and all she did was cut it and pull it out, it was hanging on by the nerve, poor little guy. He is going to have to have all his teeth removed but I just want him to recover from this first as he is now 11 1/2 y years old and only weighs 2.4 kg. After all that we went through to Kleinmond to do the normal weekly odds and ends before coming home and spending a hugely entertaining / frustrating afternoon. I had bought elastic to repair some of his shorts before he flies off to Thailand on Wednesday, problem came when I miscalculated the width of the elastic and purchased one that was too wide. Oh my gosh ........ How such a simple task became a monumental family event. To all the seamstresses out there, my apologies up front for what you are about to read heehee, eventually after trying a number of things which did NOT work, I cut the elastic lengthwise then had to machine stitch it to stop it from unraveling. Then, getting it through the actual seam was quite an endeavor. Threading with a safety pin wasn't strong enough, the other pin was too wide, eventually my clever Hubby got a long piece of 'bloudraad' or fencing wire and made a loop at each end. We then had to pull out the ties (after numerous failed attempts) and it took two of us to push and pull and thread using pliers and lots of grunting. What should have taken three quarters of an hour took the entire afternoon, I'm certainly glad nobody was recording our antics. The end result was not as good as I would have liked but we did a passable job.
BigBear arrived on Friday evening and both the guys then braaied up a storm, more meat than we've eaten in a year I think. It was a wonderful evening which ended up with both of our sons falling asleep in front of the television and us 'oldies' wide awake hehe. Saturday dawned and South Africa's first match in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, I had booked a table at the local restauran/ pub and the guys insisted that Jelly Bean and I join them, that was a first for me. We had a fabulous table and once again I was reminded at just what a special area we live in, the comraderie and atmosphere was fantastic, the place was absolutely packed out, the food fantastic even though I had not planned to eat, sadly South Africa just didn't manage to win the game. After some good coffee at home the guys left and went back to BigBears home as he took his brother to the airport yesterday morning. Thank you both for absolutely everything and Bon Voyage Big Guy, enjoy your holiday, make lots of memories, take lots of pics and stay safe.
Tonight Poppet and Princess arrive very late and will spend the evening with BigBear in Sea Point before coming through to us tomorrow morning, I simply can't wait to see and hug them and feel so blessed to have been able to see all my kids within the space of a week. Unfortunately Poppet has to work this week but we will make the most of every moment we have available, more on their visit next week.
Folks that was our week in a big nutshell, I wish you and yours a fantastic week further, enjoy the Public Holiday tomorrow and please stay safe.
Our view at lunch the other day #thewoodenbarrel #hermanus
BigBear arrived on Friday evening and both the guys then braaied up a storm, more meat than we've eaten in a year I think. It was a wonderful evening which ended up with both of our sons falling asleep in front of the television and us 'oldies' wide awake hehe. Saturday dawned and South Africa's first match in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, I had booked a table at the local restauran/ pub and the guys insisted that Jelly Bean and I join them, that was a first for me. We had a fabulous table and once again I was reminded at just what a special area we live in, the comraderie and atmosphere was fantastic, the place was absolutely packed out, the food fantastic even though I had not planned to eat, sadly South Africa just didn't manage to win the game. After some good coffee at home the guys left and went back to BigBears home as he took his brother to the airport yesterday morning. Thank you both for absolutely everything and Bon Voyage Big Guy, enjoy your holiday, make lots of memories, take lots of pics and stay safe.
Tonight Poppet and Princess arrive very late and will spend the evening with BigBear in Sea Point before coming through to us tomorrow morning, I simply can't wait to see and hug them and feel so blessed to have been able to see all my kids within the space of a week. Unfortunately Poppet has to work this week but we will make the most of every moment we have available, more on their visit next week.
Folks that was our week in a big nutshell, I wish you and yours a fantastic week further, enjoy the Public Holiday tomorrow and please stay safe.
Our view at lunch the other day #thewoodenbarrel #hermanus
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