Friday, January 26, 2007
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Part 3 of our holiday in South Africa
On Saturday morning we sorted out the bed linen etc. and did a quick clean up. Roger, Kelly and family came down to spend the day with us. Roger was immediately roped into the fishing scene and he and the boys had a wonderful time catching little fish from the rocks. A little later Kerry, Aldo and kids arrived to spend Saturday night with us. It was so nice seeing everyone again and Lara was in her element having her friend Luke with her. We had a braai (mid afternoon) and then went back to the beach for a while. Roger and family left and we all settled down to have a catch up session with Kerry and Aldo. Emma is such a sweet, happy little girl and Luke has lost a lot of his puppy fat and is becoming a little man. It started raining in the early evening.
Sunday morning was overcast and raining, so the kids couldn’t go to the beach as usual. I had asked the maid to come in, so she did a clean up for me which was great. The Etheridge family arrived and brought half of Woolies with them too. Then Alana, Miguel and the girls arrived also with a load of stuff. Our little house was getting fuller and fuller and I saw Kerry start packing her things together. She did however, convince me that her father in law was arriving in Empangeni for a visit, and that they would have to head on home. After they left, Gerard got the braai going and Alana and I made some salads. It was nice to catch up with all our friends and family.
On Monday we woke up to a lovely day so decided that we should take the kids to Ushaka. We got there at about 10am and found a nice grassy spot next to the main pool. We hired an umbrella and were set for the day. Even though we all had sunscreen on, we all got rather burnt from being in and out the water. Gerard and I took Lara on the tube ride which was great fun. We noticed that from about midday the people were just pouring in and by the time we left, there was no space to be found. We left there just on 4pm and as we drove through Durban I suggested that we call in and see Aunty Liz. Oh boy, what a state she was in so we did not stay long.
On Tuesday we drove up to Pmburg. Our first stop was at Bell where we asked them to courier some stuff to Aldo in Richards Bay. We then went on to Meadow Feeds (my old work place) and got to see quite a few of the old hanger onners. Quite amazing to think that my friend Dalena has been working as receptionist there for 18 years. Carol, the O.H. Sister has been there even longer.
We then went to the Liberty Mall which is where the old Corobrik used to be. What a lovely shopping centre. I had contacted some of my friends and they said they would meet up with us there. We met Carol and Alf and went to the Mug and Bean. A while later, Brenda arrived and Pierre came to give us a quick hello and said that Monica couldn’t make it. As we were leaving the Mall my friend Ann smsed me to say that they were at Fegos, so we joined her and Pierre there. So we had managed to see quite a few people by then but Richard had asked us to go down to his office, which we then did.
He has got his own business in Greyling street and he proudly showed us around his premises. He has done very well for himself. He then asked us to meet us back at his house, so on the way there, we called in to see Monica and Pierre and their family. Our day had become very long and we found ourselves leaving Pmburg at 8.30pm.
The next morning, Gerard went off to Toti golf club for a game. The kids and I walked to the beach. My friend Norman and his daughter Laura met us on the beach. It was really nice to see him again – he was my flatmate for a good few years and we worked together. At 7pm Liesel and Klaus paid us a visit. It was so sweet of them to make the effort to come to us. She is a friend of Norma’s and was living in Germany. We became telephone friends and we visited them once in Emsdetten (on the border of Holland) and she came to see me last year just before she left Germany. We had quite a lot to talk about and our evening flew by.
On Thursday, we had the day to ourselves to chill out on the beach. It was nice and relaxing but we felt our holiday was coming to an end. Unfortunately, Robert was stung by a bluebottle and this brought our day at the beach to an end. I bathed his sting on his arm in Vinegar and it helped. I think had it happened earlier on in the holiday, he would have been very reluctant to swim in the sea.
On Friday, we were up early. Gerard took all the sheets, towels etc. to the laundry and the maid’s daughter arrived. She was so young and inexperienced but eventually got everything we wanted done, done. We left Warner Beach at 11.00am and drove to the airport. Our flight to Johannesburg was quick and Mom was waiting for us at the airport.
We drove to her house and quickly sorted out the suitcases. Michelle, Richard and Brandon arrived and we swopped gifts. Michelle treated me to a French manicure and we had loads to talk about. They had just been in England for 2 weeks. Karen, Eddie and the kids arrived with Mo. Mo being a little 6 week old Jack Russell. What a highlight for our kids. They couldn’t leave the little thing alone.
Saturday morning, we had our last shop to do. At this stage the stomach bug that I had, had been worsening and it was the last thing that I felt like doing. Went to East Rand Mall and did the shop at Diskem and then went into Pick and Pay Hyper. Got the basics but stomach cramps got the better of me and we went back home. We got all packed up and sorted out. Gerard took Lara and myself to O.R. Tambo International and dropped us off with two suitcases. He then went back for the others while Lara and I headed towards the Lufthansa departures. There was a huge storm going on and the rain poured down.
Gerard and the rest of the family arrived back and we booked ourselves through. Mom decided to leave straight away as she did not want to drive in the dark.
We went through to the departure lounges and had something to drink.
Our flight was delayed slightly due to the weather conditions and when we took off, the plane was very shaky. We were sitting in the very last row in the plane and we watched everyone’s heads shaking in front of us. This went on for a good half an hour and then again over central Africa. When we came into land, we had the same shakiness.
The guy from Park and Ride was there to collect us and take us to our car. Gerard gets into our car and the battery is flat, flat, flat. He had left the Navigation system on for the whole 3 weeks. A quick jump start and we were off. Got back to Alsfeld at about 7.00am. Our holiday was officially over!!!!!!!
Sunday morning was overcast and raining, so the kids couldn’t go to the beach as usual. I had asked the maid to come in, so she did a clean up for me which was great. The Etheridge family arrived and brought half of Woolies with them too. Then Alana, Miguel and the girls arrived also with a load of stuff. Our little house was getting fuller and fuller and I saw Kerry start packing her things together. She did however, convince me that her father in law was arriving in Empangeni for a visit, and that they would have to head on home. After they left, Gerard got the braai going and Alana and I made some salads. It was nice to catch up with all our friends and family.
On Monday we woke up to a lovely day so decided that we should take the kids to Ushaka. We got there at about 10am and found a nice grassy spot next to the main pool. We hired an umbrella and were set for the day. Even though we all had sunscreen on, we all got rather burnt from being in and out the water. Gerard and I took Lara on the tube ride which was great fun. We noticed that from about midday the people were just pouring in and by the time we left, there was no space to be found. We left there just on 4pm and as we drove through Durban I suggested that we call in and see Aunty Liz. Oh boy, what a state she was in so we did not stay long.
On Tuesday we drove up to Pmburg. Our first stop was at Bell where we asked them to courier some stuff to Aldo in Richards Bay. We then went on to Meadow Feeds (my old work place) and got to see quite a few of the old hanger onners. Quite amazing to think that my friend Dalena has been working as receptionist there for 18 years. Carol, the O.H. Sister has been there even longer.
We then went to the Liberty Mall which is where the old Corobrik used to be. What a lovely shopping centre. I had contacted some of my friends and they said they would meet up with us there. We met Carol and Alf and went to the Mug and Bean. A while later, Brenda arrived and Pierre came to give us a quick hello and said that Monica couldn’t make it. As we were leaving the Mall my friend Ann smsed me to say that they were at Fegos, so we joined her and Pierre there. So we had managed to see quite a few people by then but Richard had asked us to go down to his office, which we then did.
He has got his own business in Greyling street and he proudly showed us around his premises. He has done very well for himself. He then asked us to meet us back at his house, so on the way there, we called in to see Monica and Pierre and their family. Our day had become very long and we found ourselves leaving Pmburg at 8.30pm.
The next morning, Gerard went off to Toti golf club for a game. The kids and I walked to the beach. My friend Norman and his daughter Laura met us on the beach. It was really nice to see him again – he was my flatmate for a good few years and we worked together. At 7pm Liesel and Klaus paid us a visit. It was so sweet of them to make the effort to come to us. She is a friend of Norma’s and was living in Germany. We became telephone friends and we visited them once in Emsdetten (on the border of Holland) and she came to see me last year just before she left Germany. We had quite a lot to talk about and our evening flew by.
On Thursday, we had the day to ourselves to chill out on the beach. It was nice and relaxing but we felt our holiday was coming to an end. Unfortunately, Robert was stung by a bluebottle and this brought our day at the beach to an end. I bathed his sting on his arm in Vinegar and it helped. I think had it happened earlier on in the holiday, he would have been very reluctant to swim in the sea.
On Friday, we were up early. Gerard took all the sheets, towels etc. to the laundry and the maid’s daughter arrived. She was so young and inexperienced but eventually got everything we wanted done, done. We left Warner Beach at 11.00am and drove to the airport. Our flight to Johannesburg was quick and Mom was waiting for us at the airport.
We drove to her house and quickly sorted out the suitcases. Michelle, Richard and Brandon arrived and we swopped gifts. Michelle treated me to a French manicure and we had loads to talk about. They had just been in England for 2 weeks. Karen, Eddie and the kids arrived with Mo. Mo being a little 6 week old Jack Russell. What a highlight for our kids. They couldn’t leave the little thing alone.
Saturday morning, we had our last shop to do. At this stage the stomach bug that I had, had been worsening and it was the last thing that I felt like doing. Went to East Rand Mall and did the shop at Diskem and then went into Pick and Pay Hyper. Got the basics but stomach cramps got the better of me and we went back home. We got all packed up and sorted out. Gerard took Lara and myself to O.R. Tambo International and dropped us off with two suitcases. He then went back for the others while Lara and I headed towards the Lufthansa departures. There was a huge storm going on and the rain poured down.
Gerard and the rest of the family arrived back and we booked ourselves through. Mom decided to leave straight away as she did not want to drive in the dark.
We went through to the departure lounges and had something to drink.
Our flight was delayed slightly due to the weather conditions and when we took off, the plane was very shaky. We were sitting in the very last row in the plane and we watched everyone’s heads shaking in front of us. This went on for a good half an hour and then again over central Africa. When we came into land, we had the same shakiness.
The guy from Park and Ride was there to collect us and take us to our car. Gerard gets into our car and the battery is flat, flat, flat. He had left the Navigation system on for the whole 3 weeks. A quick jump start and we were off. Got back to Alsfeld at about 7.00am. Our holiday was officially over!!!!!!!
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Part 2 of our holiday in South Africa
We left for Roger and Kelly in Mtunzini on Thursday 28th afternoon. On our way, we called in at the factory shops at Jacobs. We were quite disappointed this time but Gerard managed to find a few nice shirts and a nice rucksack at the Reebok shop. It was nice to see the family again and we got to bed so late after sitting and chatting for ages.
Friday morning, we went into Empangeni. Gerard dropped me at the dentist and then took the kids to Cheryl. He had an appointment at the bank which would keep him busy.
Dr Fahn managed to repair my tooth quite easily and painlessly at a cost of R530,00. Gerard picked me up and we collected the kids from Cheryl and headed off to Richards Bay. We took the kids to Wimpy (had to wait in line to get a table). Jenny Coetzer walked in and spotted us which was great – we would not have got to see her otherwise. Engela and Pannie saw her further along in the Boardwalk and they also came over to say hello. The shopping centre was absolutely full to capacity with holiday makers. I managed to do a bit of shopping at Woolies and then we went to the new Mr Price shop which is very impressive.
After our shopping spree we headed off towards the small crafts harbour and then decided to go and visit Shawn and Stacey instead. It was great to see them again and of course little Sarah. They have made wonderful improvements to their house and it is now a beautiful home.
We then drove back to Empangeni to have a braai at Cheryl and Ian’s. We all had a swim and it was nice and relaxing until a gale force wind blew up and threatened to blow everything and us away. Left them and headed back to Mtunzini.
Saturday was so overcast but we headed off to the beach. The kids had a wonderful time but little did we realize just how they were burning. Even though it was so overcast and looked as though it would rain, those harmful rays got through and burnt my poor kid’s skin. That night Steven was suffering and was quite ill so we phoned the chemist who advised that we use Freeze on him and ensure that he drank plenty of water. We had a braai that evening.
Sunday was a rainy day and it was old year’s eve. It was fun listening to the older girls planning their activities for the evening. Nici went with Angelique to Richards Bay and spent the night there and Kirsty went with a group of her friends to Ballito. They were sleeping in the back of the 4 X 4 that they were going in. The old fogies and little kids had no great party planned but we did have a braai. Kelly’s folks, Shannon and Melissa
and Clive were all there and we saw the New Year in together.
On Monday the 1st, we decided to go up to Hluhluwe Game reserve. The weather was still undecided and there were patches of rain all the way there. We drove through the Gates and up to Hilltops. We hadn’t been there long when the heavens opened and it poured. After the downpour we drove down the route where elephant, giraffe and rhino had been sited. Unfortunately, we did not get to see any elephant!!!! We left through the same gate and headed to Mtubatuba to visit Aunty Lily. She is living with friends who have a lovely home and are still able to give aide to her. She is on oxygen constantly (suffers from emphysema) after long years of smoking. Did not stay too long and headed back to Mtunzini. We had promised to take the family out for dinner so went to Tradewinds Hotel only to find the service shocking and the meal cold and unappetizing. Very disappointing indeed!!!
The next morning we packed ourselves up. Lara was not well and spent most of the morning puking. Roger had gone with Kelly to a job interview in Richards Bay, so we took our kids down to the stables to visit Monty. Monty is Nici’s horse and is much admired by my kids especially Lara. After a ride each, they were happy to leave. While the kids spent time with their cousins, Gerard and I went down the road to visit Debbie Hartley who had also worked for Richard Grantham. Richard, was the man I worked for in Empangeni. It was nice catching up with her and getting to hear about the other friends we had in common.
We then left Mtunzini and drove back to Warner Beach. I unpacked and we dropped off all our washing at the Laundromat and then went on to do some grocery shopping. After those chores, we went to the beach. That night was fun and games with all the kids having diarrhea and vomiting.
The next day Robert was not feeling too good, so he slept while we went to the beach for a short while. The maid came just after our late breakfast and cleaned the flat thoroughly.
I had contacted my cousin Ardyne (from Australia) about visiting us that day but she was put off by the stomach bug. After running off to Woolies and buying a diving chocolate cake, she phoned to say that they wouldn’t come that day after all. Disappointing!!
The next morning, after a short time on the beach, we decided to go shopping at the Pavilion. Oh what a treat to shop in these shopping mall!!!! We were in Musica buying the boys Singstar for their PS2 when I saw a guy that was familiar. I approached him and it turned out to be John who is Ardyne’s husband. They had also gone shopping and we had bumped into each other in the same shop – talk about a small world. We spent a few hours doing the shopping thing and then headed back. We bought a new phone for the flat. We went down to the beach and on our return, Ardyne and John arrived to visit us. It was nice to catch up on their news – can’t believe that they have been in Australia for 18 years now and I last saw them 10 years ago. They had also spent Christmas with my brother Dave who has just immigrated to Australia. John’s parents are now in their 80’s and still living in their house in Amanzimtoti, hence their visit to S.A.
On Friday morning, we went to the beach. Gerard went off to Toti shopping mall to try and get a new plug connection for the phone and could not find one in any of the nearby shopping malls. The maid came in to clean again and at about 3.00pm we headed off to Gateway Shopping Centre. We went to the Crescent and had a look at some amazing shops – one being a pet shop. Could not believe how the birds stayed in their cages which had no top to them. Gerard managed to get a connection for the phone and I found a new bikini in Grab a Garb. All in all – a very nice shopping spree.
We drove down the road to Umhlanga Manors where Cheryl’s parents live and joined the already very full house. Gerard and I showered and changed. Leigh and her boyfriend were babysitting the kids while we all went to a show at the Barnyard. Gerard was quite taken with the huge openness of Gateway Shopping Centre. We went into the Barnyard Theatre and got shown to the very front table. The whole place is kitted out like a Barnyard with woodchips on the floor, huge wooden tables (for dancing on) and a great atmosphere. Cheryl and Ian have been to quite a few shows and knew the whole system. They had packed in a wonderful 3 course meal for all of us (10 of us in total) and we all put into a kitty for 2 rounds of drinks. Thereafter we would have paid for our own.
The show we watched was called Surfing Safari. It was all the songs from the Beachboys and the likes (all our era) and we had a really enjoyable evening.
At the end of the show, Cheryl and I even got to pose with the lead singer for a photo. What a way to end and evening and our second week in S.A.!!!
Friday morning, we went into Empangeni. Gerard dropped me at the dentist and then took the kids to Cheryl. He had an appointment at the bank which would keep him busy.
Dr Fahn managed to repair my tooth quite easily and painlessly at a cost of R530,00. Gerard picked me up and we collected the kids from Cheryl and headed off to Richards Bay. We took the kids to Wimpy (had to wait in line to get a table). Jenny Coetzer walked in and spotted us which was great – we would not have got to see her otherwise. Engela and Pannie saw her further along in the Boardwalk and they also came over to say hello. The shopping centre was absolutely full to capacity with holiday makers. I managed to do a bit of shopping at Woolies and then we went to the new Mr Price shop which is very impressive.
After our shopping spree we headed off towards the small crafts harbour and then decided to go and visit Shawn and Stacey instead. It was great to see them again and of course little Sarah. They have made wonderful improvements to their house and it is now a beautiful home.
We then drove back to Empangeni to have a braai at Cheryl and Ian’s. We all had a swim and it was nice and relaxing until a gale force wind blew up and threatened to blow everything and us away. Left them and headed back to Mtunzini.
Saturday was so overcast but we headed off to the beach. The kids had a wonderful time but little did we realize just how they were burning. Even though it was so overcast and looked as though it would rain, those harmful rays got through and burnt my poor kid’s skin. That night Steven was suffering and was quite ill so we phoned the chemist who advised that we use Freeze on him and ensure that he drank plenty of water. We had a braai that evening.
Sunday was a rainy day and it was old year’s eve. It was fun listening to the older girls planning their activities for the evening. Nici went with Angelique to Richards Bay and spent the night there and Kirsty went with a group of her friends to Ballito. They were sleeping in the back of the 4 X 4 that they were going in. The old fogies and little kids had no great party planned but we did have a braai. Kelly’s folks, Shannon and Melissa
and Clive were all there and we saw the New Year in together.
On Monday the 1st, we decided to go up to Hluhluwe Game reserve. The weather was still undecided and there were patches of rain all the way there. We drove through the Gates and up to Hilltops. We hadn’t been there long when the heavens opened and it poured. After the downpour we drove down the route where elephant, giraffe and rhino had been sited. Unfortunately, we did not get to see any elephant!!!! We left through the same gate and headed to Mtubatuba to visit Aunty Lily. She is living with friends who have a lovely home and are still able to give aide to her. She is on oxygen constantly (suffers from emphysema) after long years of smoking. Did not stay too long and headed back to Mtunzini. We had promised to take the family out for dinner so went to Tradewinds Hotel only to find the service shocking and the meal cold and unappetizing. Very disappointing indeed!!!
The next morning we packed ourselves up. Lara was not well and spent most of the morning puking. Roger had gone with Kelly to a job interview in Richards Bay, so we took our kids down to the stables to visit Monty. Monty is Nici’s horse and is much admired by my kids especially Lara. After a ride each, they were happy to leave. While the kids spent time with their cousins, Gerard and I went down the road to visit Debbie Hartley who had also worked for Richard Grantham. Richard, was the man I worked for in Empangeni. It was nice catching up with her and getting to hear about the other friends we had in common.
We then left Mtunzini and drove back to Warner Beach. I unpacked and we dropped off all our washing at the Laundromat and then went on to do some grocery shopping. After those chores, we went to the beach. That night was fun and games with all the kids having diarrhea and vomiting.
The next day Robert was not feeling too good, so he slept while we went to the beach for a short while. The maid came just after our late breakfast and cleaned the flat thoroughly.
I had contacted my cousin Ardyne (from Australia) about visiting us that day but she was put off by the stomach bug. After running off to Woolies and buying a diving chocolate cake, she phoned to say that they wouldn’t come that day after all. Disappointing!!
The next morning, after a short time on the beach, we decided to go shopping at the Pavilion. Oh what a treat to shop in these shopping mall!!!! We were in Musica buying the boys Singstar for their PS2 when I saw a guy that was familiar. I approached him and it turned out to be John who is Ardyne’s husband. They had also gone shopping and we had bumped into each other in the same shop – talk about a small world. We spent a few hours doing the shopping thing and then headed back. We bought a new phone for the flat. We went down to the beach and on our return, Ardyne and John arrived to visit us. It was nice to catch up on their news – can’t believe that they have been in Australia for 18 years now and I last saw them 10 years ago. They had also spent Christmas with my brother Dave who has just immigrated to Australia. John’s parents are now in their 80’s and still living in their house in Amanzimtoti, hence their visit to S.A.
On Friday morning, we went to the beach. Gerard went off to Toti shopping mall to try and get a new plug connection for the phone and could not find one in any of the nearby shopping malls. The maid came in to clean again and at about 3.00pm we headed off to Gateway Shopping Centre. We went to the Crescent and had a look at some amazing shops – one being a pet shop. Could not believe how the birds stayed in their cages which had no top to them. Gerard managed to get a connection for the phone and I found a new bikini in Grab a Garb. All in all – a very nice shopping spree.
We drove down the road to Umhlanga Manors where Cheryl’s parents live and joined the already very full house. Gerard and I showered and changed. Leigh and her boyfriend were babysitting the kids while we all went to a show at the Barnyard. Gerard was quite taken with the huge openness of Gateway Shopping Centre. We went into the Barnyard Theatre and got shown to the very front table. The whole place is kitted out like a Barnyard with woodchips on the floor, huge wooden tables (for dancing on) and a great atmosphere. Cheryl and Ian have been to quite a few shows and knew the whole system. They had packed in a wonderful 3 course meal for all of us (10 of us in total) and we all put into a kitty for 2 rounds of drinks. Thereafter we would have paid for our own.
The show we watched was called Surfing Safari. It was all the songs from the Beachboys and the likes (all our era) and we had a really enjoyable evening.
At the end of the show, Cheryl and I even got to pose with the lead singer for a photo. What a way to end and evening and our second week in S.A.!!!
Part 1 of our holiday in South Africa
We flew on Lufthansa and left late in the evening of 22 Dec. The kids and us were very disappointed at not having our own TV screens etc. and had to just contend with watching the two movies supplied at specified times. The sun rose early over the African continent and someone close by opened their blind to look out. The light was blinding and an airhostess rushed over to close it. They did not want everyone waking up before they got breakfast ready etc. Having left a cold climate in Germany, we found ourselves stripping our layers of clothing off as we neared Southern Africa.
The hustle and bustle in O.R. Tambo International airport was typically African – loud and cheerful. One definitely notices the friendlier, happier faces in Africa.
Mom was waiting for us and eventually we were all packed into her car and on our way to Brakpan. By the time we got there, we were all hot and sweaty and we all got changed into shorts and t-shirts. What a change from all our layers of winter clothes.
That afternoon we went off to visit Dad in hospital. Got to Sunninghill hospital and met up with Roger, Kelly and family. We all sat and had cool drinks, as Dad was having his dressing changed.
It was good to see him sitting in a chair but he has aged quite a lot.
After our visit with him, we had phoned Cherie and Gregg only to find that they were at the Vaal River. So we decided to take a drive to Pretoria. We drove up to the houses of Parliament and took some photos from there.
Christmas Eve was spent at Eddie and Karen’s. He cooked two different meat rolls on the Weber and Karen had put on a wonderful spread.
The kids had a wonderful time swimming and playing soccer with their cousins. Presents were swapped and everyone was happy.
On Christmas Day, we drove through to Van Der Bijl Park to spend the day with Dad and Val. Poor old Val had been busy all night and morning to prepare a wonderful meal of 3 different roasts with the most divine butternut and (Afrikaans) green beans. They spoilt the kids with presents of clothes and I got to spend some time with my Dad who was very emotional.
Our day was free on the 27th as we did not spend the night with Dad and Val as originally intended. So we took Mom and the kids to the Bunny Park in Brakpan. The boys have been many times but this was a first for Lara and she thoroughly enjoyed having all the bunnies running around and feeding them and the goat’s carrots.
In the afternoon we visited Colin Robb and his family (a friend of Gerard's) and they had years of catching up to do over quite a few beers. Reminded Gerard that we were meeting Gregg and Cherie at Carnival City for dinner that night. It was great to see them again and hear of all their business dealings (Gregg was my old boss) and which old colleagues of mine were still working for them.
We packed ourselves up on the 28th and headed to the airport. Our SAA flight was so quick and we had a very nice lady sitting chatting to us the whole way. She has informed me about ginger being so good for motion sickness.
Arriving in Durban, was exciting as the kids had seen the sea and knew what was in store for them. The heat and humidity really hit us and by the time we got ourselves to Warner Beach, we were so hot and bothered, so we changed into our cozzies and hit the beach. It was so nice to feel the sand underfoot and walk in the cool sea water. What a treat!!!!
The hustle and bustle in O.R. Tambo International airport was typically African – loud and cheerful. One definitely notices the friendlier, happier faces in Africa.
Mom was waiting for us and eventually we were all packed into her car and on our way to Brakpan. By the time we got there, we were all hot and sweaty and we all got changed into shorts and t-shirts. What a change from all our layers of winter clothes.
That afternoon we went off to visit Dad in hospital. Got to Sunninghill hospital and met up with Roger, Kelly and family. We all sat and had cool drinks, as Dad was having his dressing changed.
It was good to see him sitting in a chair but he has aged quite a lot.
After our visit with him, we had phoned Cherie and Gregg only to find that they were at the Vaal River. So we decided to take a drive to Pretoria. We drove up to the houses of Parliament and took some photos from there.
Christmas Eve was spent at Eddie and Karen’s. He cooked two different meat rolls on the Weber and Karen had put on a wonderful spread.
The kids had a wonderful time swimming and playing soccer with their cousins. Presents were swapped and everyone was happy.
On Christmas Day, we drove through to Van Der Bijl Park to spend the day with Dad and Val. Poor old Val had been busy all night and morning to prepare a wonderful meal of 3 different roasts with the most divine butternut and (Afrikaans) green beans. They spoilt the kids with presents of clothes and I got to spend some time with my Dad who was very emotional.
Our day was free on the 27th as we did not spend the night with Dad and Val as originally intended. So we took Mom and the kids to the Bunny Park in Brakpan. The boys have been many times but this was a first for Lara and she thoroughly enjoyed having all the bunnies running around and feeding them and the goat’s carrots.
In the afternoon we visited Colin Robb and his family (a friend of Gerard's) and they had years of catching up to do over quite a few beers. Reminded Gerard that we were meeting Gregg and Cherie at Carnival City for dinner that night. It was great to see them again and hear of all their business dealings (Gregg was my old boss) and which old colleagues of mine were still working for them.
We packed ourselves up on the 28th and headed to the airport. Our SAA flight was so quick and we had a very nice lady sitting chatting to us the whole way. She has informed me about ginger being so good for motion sickness.
Arriving in Durban, was exciting as the kids had seen the sea and knew what was in store for them. The heat and humidity really hit us and by the time we got ourselves to Warner Beach, we were so hot and bothered, so we changed into our cozzies and hit the beach. It was so nice to feel the sand underfoot and walk in the cool sea water. What a treat!!!!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Countdown to Holiday
The weeks are just flying by and now we are in our last week before we leave for S.A.
The kids are getting really excited but secretly I think that I am the biggest kid here.
On Monday morning I decided to go and find another pair of boots. Found a pair at Deichmann's and bought them. Because they were slightly cheaper, I went off to Textile Sagawe and bought myself another 35% Cashmere poloneck top.
On Tuesday , I decide to wear the boots around the house and realised that they were just not comfortable enough. Took them back and got a refund. In the afternoon I took Lara to dancing lessons and drove out to Eifa to deliver one of Robert's birthday invites. Zelda and Ryan arrived home today.
On Wednesday morning I had a long chat to Zelda and caught up on her news from S.A. I dropped the boys at light athletics in the afternoon and Lara and I took a walk into town. I went into Muller and found another pair of Rieker boots which were almost identical to my first pair. I was so chuffed.
Marcelle, Zelda and I had decided to have a ladies night on Thursday and treat ourselves to dinner and then go on to the Christmas market for some Gluhwein.
Gerard had an appointment with a vet, to have Frankie's vaccination done. So he took Lara with him and I dropped the boys off at soccer and went straight to meet the girls at the Italian restaurant. We had a lovely shrimp cocktail and then walked into the town square. The whole town had decided to come out that night, so we pushed our way through the milling crowd to find the band. They were a bunch of old guys so we decided to go to one of the Gluhwein stands and drink our Gluhwein in peace. It was really nice to get out and about and spend time with friends.
On Friday morning, I met Marcelle at Dr Riese where her and I had the inevitable and dreaded gynae appointment. We had just arrived and I was sent through. She was quick and to the point and we were out of there. At least that is over for a while. We then walked up to Oma's Cafe where we had a lovely chocolate flavoured cappucino. Bought books for Patricia and looked for a calendar for Robbie.
On Friday evening, we had the Bell Christmas dinner where we all met once again. Spent a lovely evening, learning things about my cell phone that I never knew. M is a very good teacher on all these gadgets. We had a good evening with tasty food and good company and only got to bed at 3.00am. Marcelle rang me the next morning, so I woke up to the sounds of Robbie singing next to my bed!!!
Gerard and I went grocery shopping on Saturday. In the evening, we sat watching the run up show to the final X-Factor 2006. It was amazing to see how well some of last years contestants have done for themselves. Just goes to show what publicity can do for one. Was just getting into the final when I received an SMS on my phone. Knowing it would be M, I grabbed the phone wanting to reply and noticed that I had received an earlier SMS from my sister in law Kelly. They were letting me know that Dad had had a fall and had broken his hip. What news!!!!! I was quite upset and phoned M to tell her and then whilst X-Factor was on, I was trying to contact Val back in S.A. Phoned Roger, but did not speak too long - they were having a huge storm and phone line was crackly.
Leona won X-Factor much to our delight - she is certainly deserving of her win.
Wonderful voice on a beautiful girl. Hope she goes far.
Later, I called Aunty Hillary in Australia to find that Dave was spending a week up at Eddie's house. Called him there to find that he had just spoken to Val.
He hasn't secured a job yet but is going to lots of interviews and is hoping that something comes his way soon. They have been in Oz two weeks already!!!
Today I just stayed at home. Stayed in my pyjamas all day while Gerard took the boys to their different soccer tournaments. Steve's team played at 8.30 this morning and Robert's team played at 3.30pm.
I spoke to Val today and will call her again tomorrow to see what is going on with Dad. They are wanting to operate tomorrow afternoon but have to make sure that all is o.k. with him first. Hope and pray that all goes well.
Grace won Circus Celebrite tonite. She also deserved to win as she put so much into her acts.
Only 5 more sleeps before we leave.
The kids are getting really excited but secretly I think that I am the biggest kid here.
On Monday morning I decided to go and find another pair of boots. Found a pair at Deichmann's and bought them. Because they were slightly cheaper, I went off to Textile Sagawe and bought myself another 35% Cashmere poloneck top.
On Tuesday , I decide to wear the boots around the house and realised that they were just not comfortable enough. Took them back and got a refund. In the afternoon I took Lara to dancing lessons and drove out to Eifa to deliver one of Robert's birthday invites. Zelda and Ryan arrived home today.
On Wednesday morning I had a long chat to Zelda and caught up on her news from S.A. I dropped the boys at light athletics in the afternoon and Lara and I took a walk into town. I went into Muller and found another pair of Rieker boots which were almost identical to my first pair. I was so chuffed.
Marcelle, Zelda and I had decided to have a ladies night on Thursday and treat ourselves to dinner and then go on to the Christmas market for some Gluhwein.
Gerard had an appointment with a vet, to have Frankie's vaccination done. So he took Lara with him and I dropped the boys off at soccer and went straight to meet the girls at the Italian restaurant. We had a lovely shrimp cocktail and then walked into the town square. The whole town had decided to come out that night, so we pushed our way through the milling crowd to find the band. They were a bunch of old guys so we decided to go to one of the Gluhwein stands and drink our Gluhwein in peace. It was really nice to get out and about and spend time with friends.
On Friday morning, I met Marcelle at Dr Riese where her and I had the inevitable and dreaded gynae appointment. We had just arrived and I was sent through. She was quick and to the point and we were out of there. At least that is over for a while. We then walked up to Oma's Cafe where we had a lovely chocolate flavoured cappucino. Bought books for Patricia and looked for a calendar for Robbie.
On Friday evening, we had the Bell Christmas dinner where we all met once again. Spent a lovely evening, learning things about my cell phone that I never knew. M is a very good teacher on all these gadgets. We had a good evening with tasty food and good company and only got to bed at 3.00am. Marcelle rang me the next morning, so I woke up to the sounds of Robbie singing next to my bed!!!
Gerard and I went grocery shopping on Saturday. In the evening, we sat watching the run up show to the final X-Factor 2006. It was amazing to see how well some of last years contestants have done for themselves. Just goes to show what publicity can do for one. Was just getting into the final when I received an SMS on my phone. Knowing it would be M, I grabbed the phone wanting to reply and noticed that I had received an earlier SMS from my sister in law Kelly. They were letting me know that Dad had had a fall and had broken his hip. What news!!!!! I was quite upset and phoned M to tell her and then whilst X-Factor was on, I was trying to contact Val back in S.A. Phoned Roger, but did not speak too long - they were having a huge storm and phone line was crackly.
Leona won X-Factor much to our delight - she is certainly deserving of her win.
Wonderful voice on a beautiful girl. Hope she goes far.
Later, I called Aunty Hillary in Australia to find that Dave was spending a week up at Eddie's house. Called him there to find that he had just spoken to Val.
He hasn't secured a job yet but is going to lots of interviews and is hoping that something comes his way soon. They have been in Oz two weeks already!!!
Today I just stayed at home. Stayed in my pyjamas all day while Gerard took the boys to their different soccer tournaments. Steve's team played at 8.30 this morning and Robert's team played at 3.30pm.
I spoke to Val today and will call her again tomorrow to see what is going on with Dad. They are wanting to operate tomorrow afternoon but have to make sure that all is o.k. with him first. Hope and pray that all goes well.
Grace won Circus Celebrite tonite. She also deserved to win as she put so much into her acts.
Only 5 more sleeps before we leave.
Monday, December 11, 2006
The Chocolate Diet
I forgot to mention in last weeks post, that the kids are on their chocolate diet again. When December starts, they remind us very quickly that their advent calender must be put up. This is hung on their door and every day, Father Christmas fills up the compartment with chocolates.
This week started with some medical issues once again!! I took both Robert and Lara to the doctor on Monday evening. Robert for strange "ringworm" type lesions on his legs and Lara for a persistent cough which had her in "coughing fits" in the middle of the night. Lara was diagnosed with Constrictive bronchitis and Robert with Tinea.
We wake up on Tuesday morning to Steven barking like a dog. He came through to our room battling to get his breath and quite uptight. I nebulised him and off we went again to the Doctor. Of course, by the time we got to see Dr Becker at about 9.30am (after waiting for longer than an hour at the rooms)Steven was just soooo much better!! He had Spasmodic Croup and was told to stay at home for the rest of the day and lay off sport for 2 days. He had to be nebulised 3 times a day. This had put a bit of a dampener on the morning of St Niklaus. On the morning of the 6th Dec, the children put their boots out and St. Niklaus fills them up with chocolates. Left him at home and went to NKD and bought myself a nice brown jacket. Took Lara to dancing in the afternoon. Steven came along so that he could choose a present for his friend who was having a birthday. I also went into the hairdresser and booked to have my hair done. It was also Heidi's birthday today.
I had my hair done on Thursday morning by Simone. She cut and coloured it quite well. My husband's comment was that it looked like a 1960's style!!! I rushed into NKD to get Steven a snow suit for 12.99. Took Steven off to the Altenburg Sports club where his friend Marvin's birthday party was being held. Went to Eudorf to Textile Sagawe looking for a skirt. Landed up buying a skirt and top!!! Came home and had to take Robert and Alex off to soccer training.
On Friday morning I went off to visit Marcelle. She helped me set up a blog on 24 and also gave me a hand with my new camera. I am useless at these things and Marcelle is very clued up and loves all these gadget type things. Will have to call her Mrs Gadget in future. Had a lovely morning with her.
On my way home, I called into the shoe shop where I had bought a lovely pair of winter boots. The stitching had come undone and wanted to know if I could replace them with another pair. Unfortunately, they no longer had my size so refunded me.
Took Robert, Steven, and Alex off to their Soccer Christmas party at the Altenburg Sports Club. I came home, so that I would be ready to go off to our Tennis Club Christmas party. Patricia came over to babysit for us and she spent the night here.
Our Tennis party was the same as all the usual German functions. A smoke filled room of people all eating and drinking and talking. No dancing or music - dead boring!!!
On Saturday, we went to pick up our blinds from Deco Dormus and did a bit of shopping in town. Came home, picked up Robert and hit the road for Weiterode where Yvonne lives. We spent the rest of the day celebrating her birthday with her friends and family. Really nice but I am sure also quite fattening with all the cake eating. Got home in time to watch the semi finals of X-factor which is now so exciting. Ben was voted off much to my dismay but the other two were fantastic.
On Sunday, Gerard got up and took Steven off to a soccer match which started at 8.15am. I got up shortly afterwards and made a quiche. This was my bit towards the Kindergarten brunch that we were attending. Lara's Kindergarten put on a little Nativity play and then everyone tucked in to a wonderful assortment of food. Diet definately out the window.
Later in the afternoon, we decided to take the kids to the "Weihnacht Markt" in Alsfeld. Of course, it was very full with people coming and going, and after an hour or so, we were starting to feel cold. Lara had the most fun as she got to ride on the carousel and little train, but the boys have outgrown this and found it quite boring!!! We had a Bratwurst there for supper. By the time we left, the temperature had gone down to 3 degrees. Took a drive past some of the houses that really do their houses up with lights etc. Really pretty.
This week started with some medical issues once again!! I took both Robert and Lara to the doctor on Monday evening. Robert for strange "ringworm" type lesions on his legs and Lara for a persistent cough which had her in "coughing fits" in the middle of the night. Lara was diagnosed with Constrictive bronchitis and Robert with Tinea.
We wake up on Tuesday morning to Steven barking like a dog. He came through to our room battling to get his breath and quite uptight. I nebulised him and off we went again to the Doctor. Of course, by the time we got to see Dr Becker at about 9.30am (after waiting for longer than an hour at the rooms)Steven was just soooo much better!! He had Spasmodic Croup and was told to stay at home for the rest of the day and lay off sport for 2 days. He had to be nebulised 3 times a day. This had put a bit of a dampener on the morning of St Niklaus. On the morning of the 6th Dec, the children put their boots out and St. Niklaus fills them up with chocolates. Left him at home and went to NKD and bought myself a nice brown jacket. Took Lara to dancing in the afternoon. Steven came along so that he could choose a present for his friend who was having a birthday. I also went into the hairdresser and booked to have my hair done. It was also Heidi's birthday today.
I had my hair done on Thursday morning by Simone. She cut and coloured it quite well. My husband's comment was that it looked like a 1960's style!!! I rushed into NKD to get Steven a snow suit for 12.99. Took Steven off to the Altenburg Sports club where his friend Marvin's birthday party was being held. Went to Eudorf to Textile Sagawe looking for a skirt. Landed up buying a skirt and top!!! Came home and had to take Robert and Alex off to soccer training.
On Friday morning I went off to visit Marcelle. She helped me set up a blog on 24 and also gave me a hand with my new camera. I am useless at these things and Marcelle is very clued up and loves all these gadget type things. Will have to call her Mrs Gadget in future. Had a lovely morning with her.
On my way home, I called into the shoe shop where I had bought a lovely pair of winter boots. The stitching had come undone and wanted to know if I could replace them with another pair. Unfortunately, they no longer had my size so refunded me.
Took Robert, Steven, and Alex off to their Soccer Christmas party at the Altenburg Sports Club. I came home, so that I would be ready to go off to our Tennis Club Christmas party. Patricia came over to babysit for us and she spent the night here.
Our Tennis party was the same as all the usual German functions. A smoke filled room of people all eating and drinking and talking. No dancing or music - dead boring!!!
On Saturday, we went to pick up our blinds from Deco Dormus and did a bit of shopping in town. Came home, picked up Robert and hit the road for Weiterode where Yvonne lives. We spent the rest of the day celebrating her birthday with her friends and family. Really nice but I am sure also quite fattening with all the cake eating. Got home in time to watch the semi finals of X-factor which is now so exciting. Ben was voted off much to my dismay but the other two were fantastic.
On Sunday, Gerard got up and took Steven off to a soccer match which started at 8.15am. I got up shortly afterwards and made a quiche. This was my bit towards the Kindergarten brunch that we were attending. Lara's Kindergarten put on a little Nativity play and then everyone tucked in to a wonderful assortment of food. Diet definately out the window.
Later in the afternoon, we decided to take the kids to the "Weihnacht Markt" in Alsfeld. Of course, it was very full with people coming and going, and after an hour or so, we were starting to feel cold. Lara had the most fun as she got to ride on the carousel and little train, but the boys have outgrown this and found it quite boring!!! We had a Bratwurst there for supper. By the time we left, the temperature had gone down to 3 degrees. Took a drive past some of the houses that really do their houses up with lights etc. Really pretty.
Friday, December 08, 2006
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