Well we are back in our regular home in Sun Valley, Cape Town.  The Kokstad Clan left after us on Sunday and stopped over for a couple of nights with Lauren’s old school friend, Wendy and her family in Grabouw.   They had an amazing time of catching up.

In the meantime Lisa and I went on a Christmas Shopping Spree yesterday – I have never been so last minute!  We did breakfast at Tribakery at Blue Route Centre – very nice but they really need to get more waitrons at this time of the year!

I hate shopping in a hurry and it’s even worse when the malls are teaming with people – it’s not called the silly season for nothing.   However, I managed to get most of what I needed and we were back home by 2:30.  Earl was at sea all day and only got home at 10:00 p.m.

This morning the boys and I got stuck into the garden which was looking very sorry for itself.  It is neater now but not perfect!   Earl then persuaded the lads to wash his car after which we took them to the mall for brekkie and did some food shopping.

Later Jay went to the beach with friends, Earl had stuff to do on his boat, Lisa had more Christmas shopping to do and I had a few chores in the local mall and a quick coffee with my friend Sharon.  The Kokstad Kids arrived and made themselves at home before we all went for an early evening braai.

Lisa’s friends Pieter and Michele invited us all to their place and it was magic.  They have a wonderful indoor outdoor flow from their braai room to the pool area.   Our boys were amazing with the younger kids and entertained them in the pool. The youngest is Ethan – 2 and Jay took excellent care of him.

Braai Master, Pieter

Lisa’s gift to Michele the gadget freak – a sweetie grabber!

Lisa and Little Ethan

Jay and Ethan

Jump to me, Ethan

Hi jinks in the pool

Simon leaping off Jay’s shoulders

Shannon’s turn

Josh is an expert

Laurie arrives and gets a wet hug

Simon playing pool

But can he beat his dad?

Jay’s behind the camera to get this shop of the oldies

Grandpa and Ethan

For those who have happened upon this blog from colder climes – this is how we do Christmas in South Africa – the weather is warm and Santa swaps his  red suit and beard shorts and a T-shirt and drinks a cold beer instead of gluhwein!    Thanks Michele and Pieter – it was a fab evening enjoyed by all!