Long Weekend Break – From Pioneer in the Semi-desert to Luxury by the Sea

2013-03-24 | puppy1952

It was a spur of the moment decision. Thursday was a holiday – Human Rights Day – and Friday was an off day for schools. Of course, it took a while for this to sink into my significant others head! ” So,” he said on Wednesday morning suddenly realising that we should have planned earlier – “What shall we do this weekend?” “Too late, now,” was my pessimistic reply although I am usually the optimistic one in this relationship. “Everything will be booked up!” – including our house in Struisbaai which friends were to occupy for the South League competition.

It was therefore a bit of a surprise when SO sent me a text at school – “Booked for Bizansgat.” Bizansgat would be in the middle of The Karoo halfway between Ceres and Sutherland. I had an appointment with a parent after school and still had to pack! As it turned out she didn’t pitch up – for the second time – so I got home at 3 and we left half an our later.

But I needn’t have worried because my Procard holding husband booked us into a Protea hotel in Stellenbosch for our first night – two for the price of one. He had been trying for years to get a good deal on his Procard but was always told, “We only hold certain rooms for Procard holders and they’re all booked!’ Ja right! Well this time they must have been tired of him complaining about it being an unfair system and that having paid all that money to have this privileged card he should be able to get any room whenever he wanted. So yes – they must have had complaints from other Procard holders because there was, “No problem, Sir – any time is a good time Sir – we have changed the rules, Sir!”

The room was comfortable and had a lovely sitting room and kitchenette – we could have self-catered but we didn’t. Perhaps we should have because the set menu was mediocre.

On Thursday we decided not to do breakfast at the hotel. We still needed to shop for Bizansgat after which we went to a great little coffee shop and had muffins and cappuccino.

The Karoo was hot! The Karoo was dusty! The Karoo was – well semi-desert and beautiful! How can one describe the flatness, the low, scrawny scrub and unique flat topped koppies. The colours – 50 shades of khaki – muted, dusky greens, pinks and mauves and peaceful! Then there are the birds. The dusty coloured, difficult to identify, confusing Karoo birds. We love them although it is a challenge to find them so well camouflaged and blending into the landscape. We didn’t find too many but enjoyed those we did see.

Bizansgat is a special little hide away. It is on a sheep farm and Petrus the shepherd was there to greet us with his dog Tes – a scrawny border collie with a very waggy tail. She deserted her boss and took up duty guarding us for the duration of our stay.

Bizansgat’s Welcome Sign

Miles of nothing surrounded us

Tes on guard in front of our humble abode

The bedroom

A corner of the kitchen

Another corner of the kitchen with crockery from the past

The last time we stayed in Pioneershuisie, it was winter and there had been some rain. The stream then was flowing and the duck pond was full. Now it was dry and we didn’t even see the usual geese that wake most visitors in the early hours of the morning. Birdlife was pretty thin too. We found Cape Bunting, Karoo chats – lots, Karoo long-billed lark, white-throated canaries and mouse birds. Birds of prey were lesser kestrel, rock kestrel and Pale Chanting Goshawks.

White-throated canary

Cape Bunting

Karoo Longbilled Lark

We braaied our chops in the little skerm and afterwards washed up in the outhouse created just for this purpose. The huisie doesn’t have a bathroom either so ablutions were done in the outhouse alongside. There are other dormitories where groups can stay and they share these ablutions – but we were the only people there.

My Personal Chef

Die Wasklip

The Ablution Block was spotless

One’s every comfort was catered for

Tes was intrigued by the bird calls coming from my laptop!

In the relative cool of the evening we sat outdoors to watch the stars – oh wow – in a place like this they are so much brighter. Indoors it was really hot. We needn’t have brought our bedding as we lay atop the bed with no need even for a sheet. BUT – the mosquitoes! In spite of lashings of BUG-OFF – they buzzed like helicopters all night and by morning it looked like we had chicken pox!

In the morning we went for a drive and got a good eyeful of Karoo scenery, spotted a couple of steenbok and birds and then returned, deciding that although we love this place the heat was a bit much. Earl was fighting a cold and felt he could do with some luxury – enough of outhouse showers and loo’s for this old chap!

Fifty Shades of Khaki

The Dusty Road heading towards the gorgeous Karoo style mountains

Typical Karoo Scene – not the PCG on the windmill

Pale Chanting Goshawks are common in this neck of the woods

Pale Chanting Goshawks are common in this neck of the semi-desert

Karoo Chat

Immature Pale Chanting Goshawk

Rock Kestrel

The competition in Struisbaai was cancelled so our friends did not go up for the weekend. We thought, therefore, that we’d go and stay in our comfy holiday house for the rest of the weekend. The drive through the Motagu/Bonnivale area was very picturesque.

The Robertson Valley

What a shock when we arrived to find that our house had in the meantime been let out by the agents! WE WERE HOMELESS!

Plan B – A couple of old well-known Agulhas houses have been taken over by Sanparks and we’ve been dying to spend a weekend in one of them in the new Agulhas National Park Rest Camp. But our luck was out – fully booked!

Plan C – Arniston Hotel and Spar – another item on our bucket list – so guess where our rent money went!

Arniston is just a half hour drive from Struisbaai. The birding on the way is usually quite good but it was getting dark so little was seen. The hotel is Four Star so not the cheapest place to stay. We booked a room with a ‘pool view’ as we didn’t think seeing the sea warranted the exorbitant fee. Well, when we arrived they said, “We’ve upgraded you to a sea view room – no extra cost!” Well – thank you very much!

The Sea View

Our room was fab-u-lous! Well I am a bit of a pleb and don’t often stay in luxury hotels so fluffy white towels tend to do it for me. And after all, I was expecting to spend this weekend like a voortrekker.

En route we had stopped at Bonnievale for lunch so had coffee and buns in our room for supper. We were provided with filter coffee making facilities which was just so grand!

Luxury Suite

The next day it was a breakfast to die for. Imagine smoked salmon and croissants to start your day! That was my choice from the vast buffet on offer. I didn’t even bother with the egg order. Chocolate chip muffin with my coffee was an added delight.

Starting off with fresh fruit before the final indulgence

At 10 o’clock we booked into the Ginkgo Spa for full body massages. We were given a hot cinnamon drink and then shown to the change rooms where we were given a locker to hang up our clothes. We donned gowns and slippers – the latter we could keep. A comb was another free gift. The massage was stunning and we were then shown to a rest room where we could lie on lounges and drink herbal tea or minted water until we felt like leaving. Oh bliss!

We spent the afternoon chilling – Earl needed to get rid of his cold – so an afternoon in front of TV was called for. I fiddled around on my computer preparing stuff for next term – it could have waited but its nice to work when there’s no pressure.

Dinner was divine – Butternut soup followed by a delicious salmon with creamy wine sauce and pasta for Earl and pork with tomato based sauce and pasta for me. Our plates were too full and we couldn’t finish and dessert was forfeited too. The chocci on the pillow was quite enough thank you.

This morning the whole breakfast thing was repeated and then we packed and reluctantly left for Struisbaai where Earl went to work fixing the rebellious sprinkler system!

We then took the scenic route home and did a spot of bird watching.

Steppe Buzzard

Jackal Buzzard

A Huge Flock of our National Birds

Spur-winged geese interspersed with a few Egyptians

Sugar Bird

So ended an unexpected and stunning long weekend!

Back in Struisbaai – A weekend with friends

2013-02-02 | puppy1952

Last weekend found us back in Struisbaai mainly so that Earl could fix the irrigation system. Our friends Peter and Heather joined us.

As I had sport duty and a training course to attend at school we only managed to leave at quarter to four and arrived just before 7 p.m. Heather and Peter were already enjoying sundowners on the stoep:-) Earl did a superb braai – chicken wings, steak and chops accompanied by Mediterranean veggies and rye bread. After catching up with our friends we only got to bed after 11 o’clock.

Gus and his little girl Karla drove up early on Saturday morning and were out at sea with Earl by 7 o’clock.

The rest of household emerged from their cocoons at 9 ish had a cup of coffee and then headed for the beach where we enjoyed a delicious swim in a calm sea at Spring Low Tide – and there was hardly another soul around! Th

The fishermen had a wonderfully successful morning and returned with a superb catch of yellowtail. Karla (7) said, “I didn’t catch any – they weren’t in my class!” But she did catch some small ones on other species and released them for another day. We went to watch them come in at the harbour.

Struisbaai Harbour Beach

Kiora coming in

After enjoying a lunch of yellowtail sashimi, Gus and Karla headed back to Cape Town. Earl had a nap and Peter, Heather and I went to do a spot of bird watching. I wanted to find a Denham’s Bustard for them. We drove down the dirt road that takes us to Arniston and then turned toward Die Mond Nature Reserve.

We saw lots of birds. After the winter rains a lot of water was still lying in the farmlands and many waterbirds were enjoying it while it lasted – lots of greater flamingos, a variety of ducks and teals, stilts, spurwing geese, spoonbills, ibises and herons. The distance didn’t make photography worthwhile. Closer to the road we found an African pipit who obligingly posed

African Pipit

A Steppe Buzzard kept flying from fence post to fence post but I finally got a good shot of him.

Steppe Buzzard

I had promised my guests Denham Bustards – but they were being conspicuous by their absence. We came to the turn off to Die Mond and still nothing. I could sense the disappointment. “I saw them down this road in this field in the holidays,” I declared; but still they didn’t appear. The sun was sinking and it was time to turn around. We stopped to look at other birds but still no Denham’s. Some half joking half grumpy comments were made and I just had to find those birds. There was a speck some distance off – moving quickly – I stopped – lifted my binoculars and Bingo – Two gorgeous Denham’s striding across the veld. My guests were thrilled. They were far off but easy to see with binoculars. We even managed some ‘record shot” photography. We observed the birds for some time hoping they would come towards the car but they had other plans so reluctantly we returned home.

The Elusive Denham’s Bustards

It was almost 7 o’clock and still hot. Heather and I had to go for a swim. The men declined the offer! We were the only two people in the sea on a perfect evening.

Struisbaai Beach

Peter and Heather had to leave to at 9 to attend a function back in Cape Town. Before they left we had a last swim in the sea. After breakfast Earl completed the irrigation installation and I caught up with school work. We left at 3 o’clock. Having a weekend a way always makes you feel like you’ve been gone for a week. It was divine.

Struisbaai Holiday Day 20 – Suddenly its gone all quiet

2013-01-03 | puppy1952

There is not very much to report today. We woke up to the worst weather of the entire holiday. It was as if the skies knew that our children and grandchildren were making their way back home. The wind howled and the heavens opened to a downpour of rain. Well – I am not running in this – I declared. There was a time many years ago that nothing would have stopped me bar snow or hail. But now in my dotage, I don’t feel that urgent need to stick with the programme. I promised myself that I would skip and work out with the kettle bells – but I didn’t – Sorry Steve!

We have had the most glorious time with our family. The kids got on so well, there was always something interesting happening and the weather was ever so kind to us. The only tiny complaint was that wind did not allow for more than one boat fishing trip – but that’s summer in the Western Cape for you. The fishing is really much better in winter!

The Kokstad Connection left at about 10 and are spending the night with Aunty Diane in Great Brak. Lisa and the boys left to go home to Cape Town soon after. Lisa reports that the cats are happy to be back from the cattery and the kitten has grown!

We felt a bit bereft after the desertion so headed to Bredasdorp to organise the delivery of a new rain water tank. We then had a coffee and did some shopping before heading back to have a very quiet day, my only exercise being an hour of housework! The rest of the day we read books. Earl, who only reads during the holidays finished his Wilbur Smith – River God.

We will be staying on in Struisbaai for a few more days but only to establish a new rockery in our garden – Yassin and his wife arrived this evening and will stay a day or two to help us.

Hopefully the weather will improve. Earl would love at least one more fishing day. I need to read another book and work on the tan!

Saying Goodbye to the tortoise that regularly visits our garden

Getting comfy in the car

Sorry we have to go

Off they go

Struisbaai Holiday Day 18 New Year, New Personal Best, Die Mond Nature Reserve and Surfing

2013-01-02 | puppy1952

Last night our sleep was disturbed, not by the sound of loud music and party goers, but by the explosive sound of a fireworks display. Lauren and Allan got up briefly to see the sky lit with flashes and stars but then went back to bed. Lisa and Jay also woke up and Jay persuaded his mother to take him to the harbour to see what was going on. Lisa put on a gown and drove to a spot where they could see the whole exciting welcome to 2013!

This morning I had to start the New Year off well. My second oldest grandson, Joshua (14) – a good cross country runner – caught me up five minutes or so into my run and as his brother had done on Sunday encouraged me to increase my pace. I felt really good this morning and got into a good rhythm. I left home between 7:07 and 7:08 and was back by 7:40. I had knocked 6 minutes off the time I did on Sunday! Later I drove the distance and found that I’d run 4.2 km. I am now aiming to get to 5km before the holiday is over and to get my pace to over 9km per hour. My goal is to run 5km in 30 minutes.

The weather since Christmas has not been as wonderful as it was before. The wind simply does not want to go away! It has not managed to spoil our fun but it would be nice to have a still day before the kids return to Kokstad. Today we packed costumes, fishing rods and a picnic and made our way to De Mond Nature Reserve which is situated 26 km south-east of Bredasdorp on the south-western Cape coast. The reserve lies at the mouth of the Heuningnes River, between the coastal villages of Arniston and Struisbaai.

Entrance fee for non Wild Card holders is R40 each. Thankfully the grandparents and grandchildren are all on our card so only Allan and Lauren needed to pay. Because the lagoon is classed as sea fishing, the licences were valid and there was no need to get fresh water permits. The walk over the suspension bridge evoked a giggle or two and then we hiked along the river bank looking for a good spot to fish.

Crossing the Suspension Bridge

Grandpa and Simon stopped at a small bay while the rest of us continued until we found a suitable beach and settled ourselves to tan, bird watch and fish. Gramps and Simon soon caught up and were soon joining Jay and Allan on the mud flats.

Simon Allan Grandpa

Jay knee deep

The bird life was interesting. I found three species of plover, black oyster catchers, curlew sandpipers, swift tern, Kelp gulls and cormorants. A flock of flamingos were at a distance at first and then obligingly flew toward our spot and settled right in front of us.

Sand plovers

Kittlitz’s Plover

White-fronted plover

Flamingos and curlew sandpipers

Swift Terns

A flock of flying flamingos

Greater Flamingos right in front of our spot

After a couple of hours fishing was abandoned as a fruitless task and we hiked back to the picnic site where we enjoyed our seed loaf and a variety of cheeses with tomato and lettuce or jam. In spite of the windy and cool weather, nobody complained. It was just great to be in a different place, to enjoy the scenery and each other’s company.

Hiking back

Enjoying a windy picnic

Simon, Jay and Josh travelled with Grandpa and me in the Fortuner while the others went on ahead in Allan’s car. We took it slowly and enjoyed the roadside birds and animals. We found a yellow mongoose, steenbok, Blue Crane, Yellow-billed kite and steppe buzzards as well as a number of small birds like red bishops, sparrows, wheatears etc. I was ecstatic when Earl spotted two Denham’s bustards although they were too far for good photographs. It was lovely to get one in the same frame as a steenbok.

Steenbok

Steenbok and Denham’s Bustard

Denham’s Bustard at a distance

Steppe Buzzard

Yellow-billed kite

My exhausted younger grandsons fell asleep in the car

Later in the afternoon we took the kids to the beach to boogy board. There were lots of kite surfers making the beach scene even more interesting. The kids enjoyed the sea but after half an hour I couldn’t take the wind any more so walked home ahead of everyone else.

Wind surfer - Josh on wave in the foreground

Kite surfer – Josh on wave in the foreground

Shan in the foreground

Earl had not accompanied us – but instead taken a nap. When he woke up he braaied a yellow-tail – one he’d frozen from an earlier catch – not as nice as fresh from the sea but quite delicious nevertheless. The kids re-kindled the fire after supper and toasted marshmallows – a great treat.

Struisbaai Holiday Day 17 – Trans Agulhas Departure and Surfing the Ultimate Waves

2012-12-31 | puppy1952

Allan and Lauren did the early morning walk thing but I decided to lie in today. However, Lauren, Earl and I were all on the beach with the kids by 7:30, to watch the Trans Agulhas departure. A large crowd was gathered to see them off. Lauren and the kids found a spot to park off and watch while Earl and I found good vantage points to take photographs. Just before the start all the competitors knelt down on the sand while prayers were said for their safety at sea.

Praying for safe racing

The boats were all lined up and ready to leave by 8 o’clock.

The Line Up

There was a count down and then the whistle blew and one partner of each crew raced to join his mate and get the boat started.

Dashing for the boats

Then there was a roar as they raced and bounced over the waves toward Cape Agulhas. It was all very exciting.

They’re off

We then jumped back into the Fortuner and drove toward Agulhas. We did not see the boats but we did find one of them had flipped over and had righted himself. We found out later that he was one of the front runners and was bitterly disappointed to have to withdraw from the race.
After breakfast most of the family went to the rock pools to catch klippies again. I could swear that when I went to bed last night the beach had remained in its rightful place but this morning Lisa and I spent quite a bit of time chasing it out of the house again!

Earl and I then went to do some shopping. When I first came to Struisbaai in the early 80s there was but one very bad shop but now the town offers nearly every facility you need – there is a small mall, restaurants, a nursery, small clothing shops – beach-wear mainly – pharmacy, doctor and dentist. For most of the year it is still a fairly sleepy fishing village which wakes up over Easter and Christmas when the stressed out city slickers hit its shores. It is during these times that the locals really have to work overtime in their businesses and they do! The supermarket – OK Grocer – is amazing. They are open from 7 am to 7 pm and tonight being New Year’s eve they are open till 10! The queues in the place are extraordinary, yet you do not wait for more than five minutes before getting to the checkout where extremely efficient cashiers assist you. Service is excellent, the boss is friendly and accommodating and it is clear that his staff are well trained and happy to be working for him.

Queue in Ok Grocer

Entertainment outside the bottle store

The Mall – Entrance to South Bound Gift Store

Inside South Bound

We have had many years of amazing weekends and holidays in this little town and now that we have grandchildren we are delighted to be able to share it with them too. I wonder, though, what they would have thought of the original place with its poky kitchen, tiny two bedrooms and lack of facilities. And yet when it was like that we managed to fit in friends and dogs and still have amazing fun. No – I don’t want the old Struisbaai back – but I love it that I have the memories.

The weather today has not been that great with the north westerly bringing overcast conditions, but after an afternoon of inactivity we decided to take the kids for a swim at 4 o’clock. I’m glad I took a chair and a cardigan because I did not go into the water! The ,kids, however, had the time of their lives. The waves looked pretty terrifying to me but they thought they were just plain fun!

Omigosh – but nothing scares him

Here comes a big one

Cool ride Josh

Here comes Jay

Surfer Girl

New Year’s Eve and we watched a movie till 10 then went to bed! Happy New Year to all of you. May you have an adventurous and awesome 2013.

Struisbaai Holiday Day 16 – Wine Tasting and Trans Agulhas Challenge

2012-12-30 | puppy1952

We usually go to Kokstad for Christmas so when we asked the kids to come to Struisbaai instead this year, I was a little apprehensive. Was it a good idea to change the magical tradition that in the past had always worked so well?

Things can never stay the same so I believe we have done the right thing. We will always have our wonderful memories of big Christmas celebrations with the whole Kokstad Clan. Yes, I missed being with the extended family. The generation that we raised have their own kids now and it is always great to catch up with them, meet the new babies and celebrate with their grandparents. But there are so many of them now all going their own way that it is probably best to see them at other times of the year instead.

This holiday has been a fun, relaxed and a wonderful bonding time with just our own kids and grandchildren. The weather has been marvellous and we couldn’t choose a nicer place to enjoy a summer holiday. It makes sense to be by the sea in summer! Hopefully we can repeat it again next year. But if not, well we go with the flow and enjoy whatever we decide to do.

This morning the wind, which is not quite as strong as it has been, still prevented a trip to sea. Low tide being only at 10:30 meant the beach might not be at its best for running so I decided to do road run instead. At 6:58 I woke Jay and said, ‘I am heading toward Agulhas. I need you to come with me – catch me up in two minutes.’ I didn’t really expect him to oblige but sure enough ten minutes into my run, he caught me up. What a star my first born grandson is! He was bare foot on the tar but insisted he preferred this to running in shoes. He was like a gazelle or rather a giraffe with his long, muscled legs. He ran ahead to my turning point then kept pace and encouraged me to run faster. “I’m walking at your running pace, Gran.” Yes Jay – that’s why you call me Gran!

“Come on, Gran, you can do it. Just lengthen your stride – and breathe.” Then he sprinted ahead. I did my best. He waited and said, “Now, are you tired or do you still have energy left? – run fast, then slow, fast then slow.” His encouragement did help but I was exhausted when we got back – I ran for 34 minutes – I’m not sure how many km that is but I like to think it must be close on 5.

After breakfast the kids went to the rock pools to catch Klipvis. Earl mowed the lawn and I cleaned the beach out of the house.

Later Allan, Lisa, Lauren and I went to Agulhas and did some wine tasting. The Bon Courage Blush – sparkling wine did it for us. Allan bought a few bottles.

Lauren savouring The Blush

We also went to The Southern Wright Art Gallery and Potpourri to browse and have coffee. It was quite pleasant to just have some adult time.

The competitors in the *Trans Agulhas Challenge arrived from Stilbaai today. The beach was overly crowded and had quite a vibe. Sea Rescue had boats, helicopter and vehicles on standby just in case of mishap – but happily all went well.

Wow

Flying

Coming in

Before supper we decided to go for a walk and a swim. Lisa, Lauren and I chickened out on the swim and Earl stayed behind to start the Weber Chicken. The boys, ever-active, raced down the beach and jumped of dunes while the rest of us followed at a more leisurely pace. Then Shan went in with Dad and the boys for a lovely swim.

The boys leaping

Jay

Simon

A border collie got into the picture of Allan and the kids in the sea

While they were all finishing off their swim, I decided to walk back ahead of them to help Earl with supper. A Struisbaai friend popped in for a chat and then we enjoyed a delicious Weber Chicken dinner.

* The Trans Agulhas Challenge is the toughest inflatable boat endurance race in the world. It begins on 28 December at Plettenberg Bay and ends on 1 January at Strand. During the 5 day race inflatable boats visit beaches along the coast and have surf races to entertain the crowds. Over 60 inflatable boats battle it out on the waves in this most prestigious Inflatable boat Racing competition in the world.

Struisbaai Holiday Day 14 – Lighthouse and the tip of Africa

2012-12-28 | puppy1952

We treated ourselves to dinner at Barracuda’s in Fish Hoek last night – highly recommended if ever you are in our neck of the woods. We had not wished our good friend Jeff for his birthday on the 26th so we popped in and spent an hour or so visiting with him and Annaline. Lovely to catch up with old friends.

This morning we were up early. We did some chores at home then went to have breakfast at Wimpy – cheap and the coffee is good.

This Mega Coffee will keep him going all day

We had some time before our myosteopractic treatments so we picked up some provisions at Pick ‘n Pay, met friends and chatted in the aisles – amazing how many people were avoiding the crowds due later in the day! And then – bliss – we both felt amazing after our treatments and so the disaster with the Caravelle was sort of a blessing in disguise!

There was no way that the Caravelle would be ready today so we left Sun Valley at 1 p.m. the worst of the traffic being between Fish Hoek and Muizenberg and got back to Struisbaai at quarter to four. We will try not to think of how much our repairs will cost and collect the vehicle early next week.

Meanwhile the family were coping quite well without us. I wondered whether they would do the early morning beach thing – and yes they did! Lauren took the pictures to prove it. Note the long shadows!

Josh and Shan ready for a swim.

They also decided to do the touristy thing – stand at the Southern Tip of Africa and climb to the top of the southern most lighthouse.

Southernmost Grandchildren

Simon was not in the mood for photographs – For a week now he’s put up with his granny snapping away and now when Mom tried it, he decided enough already! All she managed was a back view with the lighthouse in the background.

Si playing with the pebbles at the Southern Tip of Africa

Simon was a little nervous of climbing up the steep lighthouse ladder. But he wanted to do it and with his mom’s gentle encouragement he was proud to make it to the top! But it did mean she couldn’t take the photos while assisting him.

In front of the lighthouse

Wherever one finds oneself in the world one must not assume – Nobody knows me here. Jay had this experience today. He is presently spending a few days with his girlfriend and her parents at their holiday spot near De Hoop Nature Reserve. They decided to explore the Breede River area. This afternoon I received a text from my sister who has a house at Riverine on The River. ‘What are the chances’ read the caption. She and her family landed up at The Boathouse at exactly the same time as Jay was there!

Jay and Monet at Breede River

Tomorrow we will meet up with him and Monet’s family at Arniston. The kids are looking forward to exploring the cave!

Struisbaai Holiday Day 13 – An Interruption

2012-12-27 | puppy1952

We woke to howling winds again this morning but undaunted Lauren, Allan, Jay, Josh, Simon, Shannon and I ran from home to the beach and the Big B sign post. Allan thought it might be cold so insisted that his children don their windbreakers in spite of my telling him that they would warm up with the exercise – it was not cold – just windy! Jay and Josh raced ahead with me in their wake and the little ones doing their best to keep up. The parents left a little later and caught them up on the beach. Jay and Josh passed me on their way back from the Big B and I told them not to wait for me if they wanted to go back home with the others. When I got back to our usual starting point I could not resist a swim in spite of having no towel with me. The water was stunning but perhaps it’s not a good idea to swim alone – there wasn’t another soul in the sea. I was dumped by a wave but quickly recovered. Some people arrived for a walk with their dogs as I headed for the shower and asked if the water was cold. They were sorry not to have brought cossies – the wind had put them off! I was soon blown dry and put my socks, shoes and shorts back on and ran home.

Earl had not been idle at home. He’d Googled a place to take the car in for repairs to the alternator but the nearest place that could do it was in Somerset West – 2 hours toward home. So at 11:30 Earl drove the Caravelle and I followed in the Fortuner. We had to stop twice to charge the battery. All the electrical things like speedometer, indicators, automatic windows stopped working. It was quite a tense and scary ride and the journey took 40 minutes longer than it usually does.

After dropping the Caravelle at Phil West Volkswagen, we went to Somerset Mall, had lunch at Woolworths coffee shop, bought ourselves each a pair of new shorts and then drove home for the night. We will both have myosteopractic treatments with our ‘witch doctor’ tomorrow. His methods are unorthodox but boy does he get results! Hopefully the vehicle will be ready for collection tomorrow afternoon.

I am afraid that our holiday is somewhat interrupted – no photographs and nothing to report other than that Jay’s girlfriend came to visit and we met her parents just before leaving. Latest news is that he is now spending a couple of days with her at their holiday place near De Hoop and we will meet up with them when we take the kids to Arniston on Saturday. Oh joy – teenage romances are beginning!

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Struisbaai Holiday Day 11 – Christmas in Struisbaai

Christmas Day – and the first time in the 30 years I have been with Earl that we have had Christmas here in Struisbaai! And yes – it has been stunning.

We usually celebrate Christmas with our kids in Kokstad and I, the photographer, insist that everybody is dressed before we open presents. This year the tradition with the support of Lauren and Allan was changed somewhat – everybody had to have an early morning run/walk/swim then return to shower and dress before present opening could begin. Simon, Shannon and Josh were up at the proverbial Sparrow’s f*&t and looked decidedly grumpy when they were told that present opening was not going to happen. They roused Jay and he was instantly alert and ready to go. Lauren roused her sister and a Christmas miracle happened. She came albeit reluctantly, to the beach with us!

Struisbaai Beach with the good sports going for a morning jog – Jay at rapid pace, Granny at steady slow slog, Josh encouraging Shan to hurry up.

Once on the beach were like playful puppies again and ready to enjoy the early morning low tide and sea breeze. Jay ran right on ahead, Shannon decided to wait for her parents, Josh kept pace with Jay for a while then ran back to get Simon and then caught up with me just before the Big B where I turn (Jay was already well on his way back to the start point) Sisi is only eight and was doing jolly well. Of course they beat me back but what a pleasure to see my grandsons enjoying an outdoor activity together.

Granny pace

Best part of the day

Back home once everybody was washed and dressed we started the present opening ceremony. Si did the handing out and I of course did most of the photography.

Waiting for Christmas

Look what Santa gave me

Oh Wow

Cool Stuff

Simon reading the names

How do I read this novel?

You don’t read it. It reads to you!

The gift chosen by Joshua was a tiny clock set in an old fashioned telephone. It came in a wooden box – so when Lisa opened it she thought it was jewellery box. Big surprise when she found another little gift inside.

An old fashioned telephone clock! Just what I always wanted

Laurie’s gift to Simon

Jay and Shan

Josh opening his gift

Thanks Kids!

The kids couldn’t wait to try out Simon and Shannon’s new game and there were shrieks and giggles as they tried to figure out the words from clues given in less than 30 seconds a go.

Kids playing Thirty Seconds

After breakfast we headed to the beach where the kids had fun on the boogy boards and the parents mainly lay in the sun. The tide was coming in and so the four cousins tried to fight it with their forts and castles. It was great to see that Jay and Joshua, in spite of being in their teens were quite happy to join the younger ones in this simple game.

Having fun on Struisbaai Beach

Josh

Shannon joins in

The tide finally came and chased them from their fortress and it was time to get out of the sun.

Our youngest, Laurie, had Christmas lunch with her father’s family and then drove up to join us in time for Christmas supper. It was wonderful to have the extended blended family together again.

Our Dinner was cooked in the Weber

Lauren prepared delicious peri peri chicken livers for our starter.

Getting the starter together

The kids were exhausted after an exciting and fun-filled day and after helping most efficiently with the cleaning up were all in bed by 9 o’clock. The adults relaxed with a cup of coffee and watched Love Actually and enjoyed the Christmas Lights.

Allan and Laurie enjoying the Christmas Lights

Struisbaai Holiday Day 10 – Fishing and Helicopter

2012-12-24 | puppy1952

The early morning is the best part of the day – everybody says so yet not many make the effort to get themselves up and out there to enjoy it. Most of my family, I am proud to say, can be persuaded. Grandpa had Alan, Lauren, Jay and Simon up at the crack of dawn to get the boat out to sea and the fish on board. Low tide today was at 7ish so Shannon, Josh and I went to the beach for a run and a swim. We were horrified to find our usual parking area next to the caravan park almost full. Something’s happening I said when we saw a number of people in running gear heading onto the beach. And yes – a fun-run was about to begin. ‘Come on, kids,’ I said ‘Lets run before this lot start.’

Josh, my 14 year-old grandson, danced around me like a puppy dog on a leash. Obviously I was jogging too slowly for him. Run ahead boy – I’m going at Granny-pace – but he and 10 year- old Shannon stuck by me all the way to the Big B. Then Josh decided enough was enough – after all he is a pretty good cross-country runner – In primary school there was only one boy in his grade that could beat him – so he dashed ahead. I told Shan it would be fine if she went faster but she loyally stuck to my side.

We met the fun-runners coming toward us – hundreds of them. It’s a pity we didn’t have cash with us – we could have joined in just for the fun of it. Back at our starting point we went in for the most deliciously refreshing swim and none of wanted to get out. The breakers were tame so no boogy boarding but the swell lifted us gently over the waves and we wallowed and played. After 20 minutes we decided to get out and we found that the faster runners were already returning. Margaret, a friend of Lisa’s, we found out later did the 5km in 30 minutes. She told us she had seen us but we didn’t pick her out in the crowd.

Reluctantly we left the beach and returned to wake up Lisa for a scrambled egg, bacon and mushroom breakfast – yes, cooked by me. Then Josh, Shannon and I went to do a last minute Christmas shop for a gift for Lisa from her boys. Josh wanted to buy a necklace but couldn’t find one he thought she’d like. Instead, at a little gift shop, we spotted something quite novel and within their budget. Thrilled with this purchase we dashed home – who wants to be shopping Christmas Eve with all those last minute shoppers – yes even in Struisbaai! But when we checked the gift at home we found something wrong and had to return to have it sorted. Luckily for us because if we had not returned we would not have seen ……..The Helicopter! It hovered low and was obviously about to land. We dashed home for the camera and then raced to where it had landed on a public open field behind the long beach. Josh was in his element as his dream is to be a helicopter pilot. Go and talk to him, I urged. But he was too shy so I broke the ice by telling the pilot that Josh was very interested to see what they were up to. The pilot told him he would need at least R1m to train unless he was accepted into the air force which required 7 or 8 As for Matric…..Anything is possible Josh! The chopper was there to do sea rescue training and Josh was allowed to sit in the cockpit before they began.

The Helicopter

Josh chatting to the pilot while Shan looks on

Josh in the cockpit

In the air

Simulated Sea Rescue

Rescue Simulation

Safely on the beach

Thanks Pilot

Last Look

That was awesome

In the mean time the fishers were having a great time. Simon fed the fish but the seasick medication helped his parents. He still managed to get the most fish of everyone and Jay caught the biggest one. (Boat pictures taken by Lauren)

Another grandson following in Grandpa’s footsteps

Grandpa preparing the bait

Red Steenbras caught and released by Alan (Rural Son-in-law)

I’m the Man

Lauren and Simon with their catch

After lunch it was snooze time for some but Grandpa and I took Josh, Shan and Simon to the beach. Although a strong North Wester was blowing it was warm and the sea wonderfully warm. The kids stayed in the sea for over an hour.

Shan and Josh

Simon frolicking in the waves

Earl, Simon and Jay went octopus hunting before supper but were unsuccessful. We put on the Christmas lights and listened to Now That’s What I Call Christmas while we ate a supper of left over fish, seed loaf and salad.

We are still listening to the music and hoping that tonight Santa will find our house at the southern tip of Africa.

Struisbaai Holiday Day 9 – The Kids Arrive

2012-12-23 | puppy1952

I decided that the best thing for my aching back was a good walk down the beach. It was low tide at 6:00 am. and so we took advantage of not having towalk on soft sand. It worked. By the time we reached the Big B I had loosened up considerably. Earl decided not to swim but I took a quick dip and we were back home by 7:30. We’d picked up some freshly baked seed loaf – still hot from the over and Earl made a delicious breakfast.

Earl had a few chores to do and I gave the house a thorough clean before the influx of family. After lunch we listened to music, chilled with the newspaper and magazines until the kids arrived at 2:30. Lauren had not seen the changes we’d made to the house and her memories were only of how it looked when she was a child. Needless to say, she was hugely impressed at what we have done.

The kids couldn’t get enough of Grandpa and there was a tussle to see who could get closest to him.

We are so glad to see you Grandpa. Josh (14) Shannon (10) Jay (15) Simon (8)

Once everyone was unpacked and had eaten a snack we headed to the beach. It was once again a glorious day today.

The pictures tell it all.

Shannon the surfer girl

That was fun

Josh riding the wave

That was a good one

Josh floating on the board

Let’s do that again

Here comes a big one

Jay

Simon catches a good one

It was a problem dragging them out of the sea but at last we made it home for fresh water showers and a braai – fresh geelbek, butternut, sweet potatoes and salad.

Josh and Simon helping Grandpa at the braai

Everyone was weary from travelling and swimming and so it was early to bed tonight.

Struisbaai Day 7 – Agulhas and Arniston

2012-12-21 | puppy1952

I got to bed after midnight last night – due to having consumed too many cups of strong coffee, all the excitement of the day and blogging till late! However, I finally fell asleep but was wide awake by 5:30 and 6:30 found Earl and me on the beach. I wanted to run while the tide was still low enough not to have too much soft sand. Earl does not do running but enjoyed a brisk walk.

When we returned the Vet Viets Vriende started emerging in stages until all were up and eating and ‘Early’ breakfast by 8 o’clock. They were super appreciative and a pleasure to feed.

We then headed to Cape Agulhas to do the touristy things – like stand at the Southern Most Tip of Africa and climbing to the top of the light house. We created a special seat for our extra passenger.

Princess Kate in her exclusive part of the vehicle

Please note there is controversy as to where the Atlantic and Indian Ocean meet – We Cape Townians sincerely believe it’s at Cape Point. But the purists believe it’s here at Agulhas. The sea is the sea – Man gives the ocean names – so I stick proudly to it being Cape Point – and proudly to the fact that Cape Agulhas is the most southerly point – no argument there!

The Vroeg, Vriendelik, Vet, Viets Vriende at the southern tip of Africa

Die Mees Suidelik Egpaar

We then took a drive to Suiderstrand, had a quick look and history lesson about the wreck and spotted a bird or two.

Rock Kestrel

Then it was back to the lighthouse. I decided not to do the climb for the umpteenth time and Earl quickly went to collect the laundry. The kids, however, enjoyed the experience.

The southern most Lighthouse

VVV at the top of Agulhas Lighthouse

Next we made our way along the dirt road route to Arniston. We handed out binoculars and bored our guests silly by stopping for every little birds. They were too polite to complain though.

Capped Wheatear

Red Bishop

We also detoured to Die Mond but were not allowed to go onto the suspension bridge without paying the entrance fee – silly really we would only have been in the reserve for 10 minutes.

At Arniston we visited the original Fishermen’s village and popped into Kassiesbaai Crafts. Here local crafts are sold from the front room of a private home.

The original Fisherfolk village

It was now lunch time and we tried to get a table at the hotel – no chance but they took our cell number and said they would call us when a table became available. The VVV bought us ice creams and soaked up some sun until the call came through.

It was very busy and they did not bring all the food at the same time – but it was good and reasonably priced. The meals were ordered were calamari, burgers, Gypsy Ham club sandwiches, toasted sandwiches and everyone seemed to enjoy what was presented.

Me Katy Tim (hidden) Nico, Francois, Marianda, Riaan

Katie, Tim, Nico

Our next adventure was to Die Grot – The Cave! It required a short walk from the dunes and then a descent to the beach – a sign warned that the embankment was dangerous and that we should take the steps – so of course the boys went down the embankment. Earl the girls and I were more cautious. The tide was not quite out so we had to negotiate incoming waves and slippery rocks until we entered the first cave and crawled through a low hole into the bigger cave that looked out to the sea. It was awesome. I would love to bring the grandchildren again next week – hopefully when the tide decides to be low at a more reasonable time.

The adventurous boys take the tricky route

The sensible ones take the safe steps

Gingerly negotiating the rocks and surf

Looking at the VVV from the tunnel into the cave toward the sea

Enjoying the cave

The whole gang

An oyster catcher we spotted outside the cave

Nico

Katie

Marianda

Francois

We were pretty whacked and ready to take the trip back to Struisbaai but when we got to the car Tim, Francois and Riaan found some sand surfing boards and dashed up the sand dune like they were doing a 100m flat sprint. Their aim was to ski down but the boards did not work that well!

We stopped at Bredasdorp to pick up supplies and while we prepared dinner the kids went off to the beach for a swim. The girls tried to make a peppermint crisp tart but as I lacked the correct utensils the cream did failed to do what it had to so had to be discarded. Instead they got creative and made us a chocolate mousse/peppermint crisp/tennis biscuit dessert. We named it VVV Pudding.

We enjoyed a dinner of Weber roasted chicken, stuffed butternut, sweet potato and salad followed of course by the VVV pudding.

What a stunning two days we have spent with these 6 fantastic young people. Francois you are an amazing young husband – its great to see how much you love and appreciate your wife – good luck with your future in civil engineering and with your Masters next year. Marianda – Francois is right – you are a wonderful wife – a go for it kind of girl – not many non-cycling wives would have agreed to a holiday of this nature – without fluffy white towels and comfortable beds – you are going to be a stunning teacher – good luck with the rest of your studies and your future career and may all your problems be gorgeous tiny ones like you and your husband. . Nico – the quiet, mysterious, creative one. You have born that aching knee with such fortitude. I’m glad you had a chance to rest it today. Good luck enjoy Greyton and your career in architecture – I would love you to design a home for me! Riaan – My name is Cloete – Riaan Cloete – You are an amazing James Bond – You are the number cruncher with a difference – All the best for your future too! Tim – Marketing Engelsman – what an adventure on a borrowed bike – to undertake all those kilometres – wow – you are super impressive. Good luck to you too with your future studies. Katie – the princess who just take everything in her stride – that smile tells it all – you just love life. What a gem you are! Well done for taking on this amazing challenge and giving it everything you’ve got. The memories will last you a life time! I know you are going to be fabulous in your career – you will be fabulous in whatever you do!

To all of you – Earl and I have so enjoyed the privilege of meeting you and sharing two days of this adventure with you. Sterkte – Go well our new friends.