Struisbaai Holiday Day 15 – Arniston

2012-12-29 | puppy1952

Stunning weather greeted us this morning. It was amazing to wake up without back ache – Thank you Steve! At 7:00 am we were once again enjoying an invigorating run down the beach and followed it with a rather chilly swim in the sea.

We found the baby lapwing on the way to the beach

A fisherman tried his luck

A border collie decided to visit and dig a hole and Simon buried himself in the sand while the family look on

A border collie decides to visit and dig a hole and Simon buries himself in the sand while the family look on

On our return Earl made a special birthday breakfast for Laurie – my precious girl is 33 today! We sang the birthday song to her and gave her presents and then she set off back to Cape Town where she will celebrate with her friends tonight.

Low tide was at 10ish today and we were to meet up with Monet’s family, visit the cave have a swim and collect Jay and bring him back to Struisbaai with us.

We travelled up in the Fortuner and Allan’s VW Polo. There is a dune road to be negotiated to the place where the climb down to the cave begins. We all squashed into the Fortuner so that we didn’t have to walk from beach parking lot. The kids shrieked when Grandpa pretended to skid and Shan said, Please don’t do that again Grandpa!

We negotiated the slippery rocks and met Monet’s family coming out as we went into the cave. Jay was clearly enjoying himself.

Making our way gingerly across the slippery wet rocks

Die Groot Grot

The Cave

Shannon emerging from the tunnel

When we came back we saw the two young people coming down from the dunes. Jay was covered in sand as he had rolled down – When you’re on the dune it is compulsory to roll down, he said. The two of them stood on the running board and hung on as we gave them a lift to the beach parking area. We are used to no crowds when we come out of season but at this time of the year finding a spot to park proved quite tricky. Of course the spring low tide brought lots of visitors to the cave too.

We joined Monet’s family on the beach and went in for a swim. The water was heavenly. The kids went in with boogy boards and had a brilliant time surfing the waves.

Jay and Monet taking a wave together

Josh, Monet, Jay

All too soon it was time to return to Struisbaai. We packed Jay’s bike into the back of the Fortuner and made our way home. Jay told us about his exciting two days. They had explored the Breede River area, taken bikes into De Hoop Nature reserve and enjoyed an 11 km bike trail and come close to eland, bontebok and zebra.

On route we had to stop for yet another shot of a pair of our beautiful national birds.

A Pair of Blue Crane

We stopped at the market to buy miellies and had them for lunch. Everybody was pretty whacked and an afternoon nap was called for. In the evening Allan cooked us a delicious beef stew.

Enjoying lunch

The rural son-in-law cooking my dinner

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!

Image

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.

Struisbaai Day 6 – Elim and Cyclists

2012-12-21 | puppy1952

That blister on my foot really made me feel precious this morning so I decided to have a rest day. I just couldn’t face putting on takkies and running through burn. We headed for the beach at 8 and enjoyed a delicious swim and surf with our body boards. It was the start of a glorious day. On our way back to the house Earl caught sight of this cute little crowned lapwing chick. It’s parents did their best to attract our attention away from him to them but we only wanted to take his portrait.

Leave my chick alone please

Aren’t I cute

We had an ”Early” breakfast of scrambled eggs – not my my normal one egg scramble with a swallow of juice before dashing off to school – no this was gourmet with bits of bacon, mushroom, tomato and ‘stinky’ cheese thrown in – to die for doll. Then we went to Agulhas to drop off our laundry.

On our return from the laundry we saw signs saying ‘Mark’ with arrows pointing you in the right direction. Lollz and I had seen them on the weekend and she’d said, “Who’s Mark?” Ha ha – very funny – Mark is Afrikaans for Market! We were tempted but didn’t get round to following the arrows but today Earl and I decided to check it out. We found a beautifully laid out market in the Diensentrum and all sorts of interesting things were on offer. Earl bought me a necklace and we gathered some delicacies like mixed nuts and seeds, nougat, biltong etc. Then we stopped off at the regular market on the field in front of the shopping centre and got some mielies.

Lovely Stuff

A place to do your Christmas Shopping

Every South African needs this stuff

Mielies going cheap

The day stretched out ahead of us and we decided to take a slow trip via Napier to Elim so that we could do a spot of bird watching. I was also keen on seeing the museum at Elim and finding out a bit more of the history of this little mission town.

A Jackal Buzzard posed for us

A shy steenbok stopped to say hi

The town of Elim nestled in a water rich valley

When we entered the village I was intrigued by an old shop. A group of cyclists were outside having stopped to get a drink and we asked if it would be okay to photograph them – they happily obliged.

The Cyclists

We took a photograph of a particularly attractive house with a pretty front garden.

Typical Elim House

We then went to the information centre and were taken on a brief tour of the museum. The curator expounded on the history of the town all of which was quite fascinating and informative. ‘When I got home I googled Elim which gave the same information quite concisely so I’ve quoted it below.

Stuff used in the olden day shops

An old kitchen which we were told has not changed much in the present day homes

Earl being quite old remembers using a water sharpener like this

He also remembers his grandparents having an ice box like this.

Elim is a village on the Agulhas Plain in the Western Cape of South Africa. It was established in 1824 by German missionaries as a Moravian mission station. When selecting the location, the missionaries placed a high priority on the proximity of water and on terrain that was suitable for planting vines so that wine for communion could be produced. As well as preaching the Gospel, the missionaries taught the villagers a variety of trades and skills. Elim’s thatchers continue to be renowned for their craftsmanship.

The village is picturesque and has changed little over the years. It is filled with whitewashed cottages, fruit trees and fynbos. All the roads in the village lead to the thatch roofed church. The community, still mainly Moravian, consists of farmers, farm workers and artisans.

Elim is becoming known for the export of fynbos, and as an emerging area in the production of wine.

After our visit to the museum we found the six young cyclists sitting on the lawn near the coffee shop having a watermelon wallow. I just had to chat to them. They had begun their cycle from Somerset West on Saturday and were heading for Stilbaai where one of the young men’s parents are holidaying. Each day is only roughly planned and sometimes they battle to find a place to camp. They told us they were heading for Struisbaai where they intended spending the night at the Caravan Park. They’d already ridden from Gansbaai and they looked exhausted! They were really charming young people so I thought – no – these guys need a break. Änd so we invited them to spend the night in our bunk room! They were over the moon and accepted with alacrity.

A refreshing water melon wallow

On our way home we had more luck with bird watching.

A Spoonbill fished in ditch next to the dirt road

Not often that we see white-faced ducks

Bokmakierie was not very obliging

We also came across a shepherd herding sheep with his dog

Back home we prepared for our guests. Earl decided to braai one of the yellow-tail caught yesterday. I made the salads and vegetables and got the table ready, checked the beds and bathroom were okay and at 6:30 ish our weary travellers arrived

After a coke I took them down to the beach for a swim

The vet, viets, vriende

Katie and Marianda rinsing off the salt water

They were delighted with our super long beach with its white sand and warm sea.

Chatting to them later we discovered that Francois and Marianda were married. The girls and one of the guys had never done a long cycle in their lives before. Tim and Katie were English speaking and that the six had met at university. Marianda is studying teaching, Katie is about to launch her career as a dietician, one of the boys is going on to do honours in marketing, Francois is already working and I can’t quite remember the other details! Their names are Marianda, Francois, Katie, Tim, Nico and Riaan. I will tell you more tomorrow.

What I can tell you is that they are all delightful young people. Today they cycled a total of 94km. They were stiff and sore but full of the joy of what they had done. The boys were super impressed that the girls kept up so well and told them so. They couldn’t thank us enough for treating them to braaied yellowtail, vegetables, sweet potatoes and salad. Dessert was very simple – canned fruit and ice cream but they thought is was a fantastic treat. After dinner they insisted on washing up. Their parents can be very proud of them – for having this adventure during their vacation and for being being superbly polite and thoroughly pleasant young people.

Tomorrow they are going to spend the day with us. More on that later!

To be continued.

Struisbaai Day 5 – Fishing, Blisters and Sushimi

2012-12-19 | puppy1952

Today was a fishing day for Earl so once again he was up at the proverbial Sparrow’s F&*t. I lingered on in bed until 7 then went for a run on the road as the tide forbade a beach jog and running later would be too hot.. Well …. If I thought soft sand was difficult, I’d forgotten about uphill in new takkies! I started from the front door and jogged toward L’Agulhas feeling great as it was overcast and cool. There wasn’t much traffic on the road but when a car came toward me I had to hop onto the gravel side path and take care not to stumble over pebbles. After 15 minutes I turned around and then had the cool breeze in my face – lovely – but hey now it was the up run! The backs of my legs were aching slightly from the soft sand jog and this incline was not helping! But I soldiered on – I am at the stage of one foot in front of the other – just keep going – you can do it and not at the wow I could go on for ever, runner’s high stage – My body was not exactly yelling – hey stop this is enough now but there was a whisper of “what the hell are you doing, the legs are hating this”. Not until 10 minutes before reaching home, that it – when suddenly I became aware of a strange burning on the side of my right foot. Oh no – not a blister. Yes a blister – it’s ages since I’ve worn takkies. I always train bare foot at the gym and only use my takkies to go on gentle bird walks. These particular takkies are quite new too. I stopped and walked for a minute then thought no way – I’m just going to run through the burn. I’d started at 7:10 and got back home at 7:40 – exactly half an hour. Now I was huffing, puffing and sweating – so into my cossie and off to the beach I went – enjoyed a 15 minutes frolic in the waves then came back for a leisurely shower and breakfast – what a stunning way to start the day!

There were a few visitors to my garden this morning – some birds and this tortoise

A wild visitor to my garden

And this juvenile Cape Robin-chat

Where’s your mom, Rob?

On Earl’s boat, Kiora, this morning were Clive, Pierre, Bernard and young Kyron (14). They returned at about 11:30 with a lovely catch of yellowtail. Kyron got the biggest, about 4kg, on his spinning rod.

Cleaning Kiora

Kyron de Stadler with his 4kg Yellow-tail

The Heroes with their catch

I had an enjoyable afternoon shopping, reading and doing mind Fair Lady mind puzzles while Earl had an afternoon nap – after such an early start to the day it was necessary. He was not in the mood for a swim when he woke up so we just went for a walk before supper and watched how all the holiday makers were having fun. The weather today cleared into a bright sunny day with pleasantly warm temperatures. Struisbaai was a perfect picture of summer activities.

The boats gently bobbing in the harbour

Fishing from the jetty

Surfing the reef

Paddling

Earlier when the guys came home with yellow tail my first words were – Sushimi. And that is exactly what we had for supper tonight.

Fresh from the Sea

Struisbaai Holiday Day 4 Breakfast, Bredasdorp and Boogy Boarding

2012-12-18 | puppy1952

This morning we woke up to just the two of us – a rare thing in our marriage having got together after we’d both had children and then blended our two families. Of course that in itself was a wonderful thing – but when we have alone time we really appreciate it. Our first thought of what to do – was get to the beach before the crowds and have a swim so 7:30 found us wallowing in the waves and giggling like little kids. Earl seldom swims – he fishes – so it was specially nice to enjoy the sea with him in this way. I did not run as the tide was too high and my legs were still aching from yesterday’s soft sand jog! The air was a tad chilly because the wind was blowing but the sea was deliciously warm and we did not want to get out! The waves were pumping and we regretted not having boogy boards to surf. When we were too exhausted from jumping the waves – it was quite rough today – we reluctantly dragged ourselves out and went home to shower. Today was the day we’d earmarked for Bredasdorp shopping and we wanted to make an early start – who wants to be in town when you could be chilling in Struisbaai!

We decided to have breakfast there and were quite happy with what the Flame Grill had to offer. Then it was the serious business of shopping. We needed the following and eventually managed to get it all.

Christmas Tree
Christmas Decorations
Roast for Christmas Day
Christmas Pudding
Various items from a hardware store
Make-up for me
Skipping rope for me (I promised Steve I would train)
Boogy Boards – we’re stupid enough to think we’re still young enough for this – read on!

I found tree that I thought would suit at Checkers – just the right size and it included a transformer and lights. I was holding the box in my hand and contemplating the price when a woman came up to me and said, “I bought one of those last year and the tree started smoking and melting!” I decided that Providence had sent her and decided not to take that particular tree! Instead I got a cheaper one without fancy gadgets and bought some pretty baubles to decorate it. I didn’t want a tree (not much space) but thought the kids would never forgive me if I didn’t at least have a little one!

On our way to and from Bredasdorp we were fascinated to see a number of yellow-billed flying around. There were also a number of steppe and jackal buzzards perched on telephone poles. (Have to mention birds at least once in a holiday report)

Here is a regular visitor to our garden – specially when the sprinkler is on.

Female Cape Sugarbird on our lawn

Female Cape Sugarbird on the telephone wire

Struisbaai in the holidays has a market on a public open space next to the main road. On our return from Bredasdorp we stopped to see what we could find and bought mielies (corn on the cob) and spanspek (cantaloupe). We had the mielies for lunch – delicious. Still to try the spanspek .

After lunch Earl did all the chores he needed to do – light on the Milkwood tree, putting up more hooks and sorting fishing tackle. Clive dropped in and they organised fishing for tomorrow.

I cleaned house and set up the Christmas tree.

My promise to Steve had to be kept – I did not run this morning so conscious was pricking. I opened up my kettle bell boxes – and oh no – one of them was the wrong weight! I emailed and complained (politely) and had an immediate cell phone reply – huge apologies and yes my daughter could collect the correct one on her way up to Struis on Sunday and I could return the wrong one in January. Still I had one that was usable so I did a little circuit routine that Steve, I think would approve of. My usual warm up and then Skipping with my new fancy and very expensive rope, clean and press with the 6kg kettle bell, step ups on my stoep steps, swings with the 6kg kettle bell, and finishing with burpies. Then stretches to cool down. Tomorrow I intend including a run – on the beach or the road depending on whether I can catch the low tide or not!

Earl, while I was struggling through my routine on my own had gone to down to the harbour with Clive. When he got back we went to the beach – and took the new boogy boards! We were like kids at Christmas. The tide was high, the wind was blowing and the waves were hectic! But boy did we have fun — we caught the waves, were dunked several times and were totally exhausted when we finally decided enough was enough! Its so hard to remember that we are in our sixties – we can’t do these kid things at the same rate any more – but we’d rather die than not at least try!

Me after a successful surf to the beach

Oh boy that was fun

Me pretending to be a cool surfer girl!

Struisbaai Holiday Day 3 Beach, Bonding and Shopping

2012-12-17 | puppy1952

Last night I received the sad news that my last surviving uncle, Stanley, passed away suddenly and peacefully sitting in his chair at home. He was 77. It struck my cousins, siblings and me that my father and his three amazing brothers have ended a chapter in our lives. Their strong influence will always be with us and we will remember them all with great fondness and love. Farewell Uncle Stanley – I will always remember being your little flower girl, your charm and your amazing stories. Rest in Peace.

The Original Greeks – Gerry (Dad) Johhny, Neoklis, Stanley – 1967

Another indecently early wake-up for the fishermen this morning while Lollz and I dozed on. But it was too good a day to laze too long. I thought my legs would be feeling a bit stiff after running yesterday – but they were fine. However, my smugness did not last long. Yesterday I was able to run on hard sand but the tide was not yet far out enough this morning, forcing me to run through water or on the softer sand higher up the beach! My calves are going to catch it I thought but in fact the backs of my thighs are killing me! Still it was a glorious morning and I loved every step of the way. I was wondering where I should hide my keys and when I heard a little voice call, “Hi Mr Fenwick” and there was Caitlyn who was in my class last year. She was with her cousin and they were staying at the Caravan Park. I chatted to the little girls for a while and then asked them to look after my things while I went in for a quick dip.

It is Lollz’s last day today and she was going to cook breakfast but I decided it would be nice to have a final mother and daughter bonding at one of the local eateries instead. We had just ordered when my cell rang. The guys were back and wanted the keys to the house. I dashed back and they decided to join us for brekkie.

My Fishing Hero with a lovely Rock Cod – caught and released

Mother and Daughter bonding

The fishermen arrived just as I was having my last cup of coffee. We left them to enjoy themselves and went to do some shopping. A lovely gift shop here, South Bound, owned by our friends Glyn and Lynn is a must to visit. I found some lovely hooks for each bedroom – so that towels etc. can be hung neatly!

Bunk Room Hooks

I was lucky too as I didn’t have to nag to get my darling husband to put them up!

Because it was such a lovely day today Lollz and I could not resist the call of the beach. I am not a sun worshipper – fair-skinned and need to prevent the wrinkled face from burning – but we decided to go for an hour or so. I exposed my legs and kept my face covered. Lollz has the Greek complexion and can stand it better than I!

The inviting beach

Feisty, fun, fearless, female – Catching those rays

Lollz after a swim in the azure waves

And now we are back at the house. Earl is sorting his tackle, Greg is napping, Lollz is doing a Sudoku and I am blogging/facebooking/reading – but not all at the same time!

Struisbaai Holiday Day 2 Back on the Run, Agulhas and Delicious Fish

2012-12-16 | puppy1952

Before I left for Struisbaai my Personal Torturer and I parted company with a final workout for the holidays. “I won’t be seeing you for some weeks so I’ll leave you something to remember me by,” he said and proceeded to work my ass off with a an excessive work out! I promised to keep up the training as much as possible on my own – but how to do that. In the not so distant past, before I hurt my back, my exercise of choice was doing a brisk 5 to 8 km run – no travelling to a gym, no-one telling you what to do and very little brain power involved. In fact a productive way to chill out and gather your thoughts away from the dependants nagging for your attention. How many years ago now since I actually did a run? At least 4.

Waking to a perfect day today I just had that urge to get out on the beach and what better place than to resume the running ritual again. I had doubts that I would be able to do 5km but – so what – I would see how far I could get. I donned my bathing costume and short, drove to the beach so that I didn’t have to wear takkies and set off barefoot down the longest beach in Africa! The tide was going out and the beach mud was cool and firm beneath my feet, a gentle sea-breeze blew from across my face and the sea wooshed loudly in my ears. After five minutes I was right back in that old rhythm – slowly at first and then I lengthened my stride and I am sure was almost up to my former pace – and I just kept going – the muscles certainly have a memory. My intention was to try and make it to the signboard with the Big B on it – (a marker for the fishing boats to line up to, I think) which is about 2.5km down the beach and then to walk back. But I was feeling good so turned around and continued running. This kind of endurance exercise is not what I have been doing for the past several years – its been more interval and strength training – far more challenging than running I can assure you – and all the stationery cycling, skipping and jumping burpies most have kept my aerobic fitness up because I managed the run with ease. The best part was stripping off my shorts and throwing myself into the cooling waves when I got back. The water was deliciously refreshing – not at all cold! Frolicking in the southern most waves is a great reward after a beautiful run in the morning sunshine.

Yes – I am back – I will be beach running for the rest of the holidays and perhaps get back on the road when I get home.

I am supposed to be doing my kettle bell training too – but didn’t get round to that today – definitely tomorryow!

Lolz was still in bed when I got back. I did the household chores then roused her to come with me to Agulhas. We had coffee and muffins at Potpourri – browsed round the gift shop then drove back home again. Lolz lay and tanned – but I just can’t do that any more so I sat in the shade and did a Sudoku – a brutal one which I finally vanquished.

Me at Potpourri

Agulhas Lighthouse

Lolz at the entrance of Potpourri

Lolz waiting for muffins

Earl and Greg had been out at sea since some immorally early hour and had returned just before we left. They brought back a lovely catch of red fish – lunch!

He catches, cleans and cooks it.

From the sea into the frying pan

Greg and Lolz enjoying fresh fried fish

Struisbaai Weekend with Just the Girls – Sunday

2012-06-03 | puppy1952

This morning we woke up and had coffee, hot cross buns and strawberries for breakfast, sat around and chatted, solved the world’s problems and then went for a walk along the boardwalk from the harbour to the beach.

Struisbaai Beach

By this time it was 12 noon and we decided to do lunch at The Pelican Harbour Cafe where they are famous for their fish and chips. We hall settled for pan-seared hake except for Chrissie who had the cob. For starters we shared a small plate of calamari. It was a good choice – the food was excellent.

We enjoyed the outdoor ambience of Pelican Harbour Cafe

Then it was back to Potpourri as the girls wanted to get a few more things – gifts for friends – but Cheryl needed us to leave by 2 – so there was a 15 minute limit set for shopping time! Well – it took a tad longer but then it was back the the house to pack.

We all felt that our batteries we were recharged, we’d found our lost souls and were ready to face the real world again.

It might be Marmite toast for some for a while but the art purchased was definitely worth it!

And to end I could not resist posting a picture of this beautiful boubou that visited our garden this morning.