South Africa so far….

We left Bristol on Thursday full of excitement and more than a little trepidation about the trip ahead of us.  3 aeroplanes 4 different airports and 22 hours.  The only one who was looking forward to this part of the journey was Joseph who’s preference was 38 aeroplanes!  I feel not! EVER!

But it wasn’t as bad as we thought it might be – all transitions easy and what a wonderful moment to be met by my brother, sister and niece at the airport and to see their faces as we came through the gates.  Our hire car was upgraded (hooray) and we soon at Judy’s drinking pink bubbly in the sun.

Sally came round – so lovely to see her too.

After a much needed nights sleep, it was time to get ready fro Lydia’s big day.  She looked so lovely and happy and she and Colin were so delighted in their marriage.  It made me cry (of course) and I am really pleased that my gorgeous friend has found her man at last.  It was wonderful to catch up with friends from far flung places and to see them all.  Almost like I haven’t been away from them for the past 20 years…..precious friends.

On Sunday we had a family braai at Judy’s and it was fun to be caught up in family banter and teasing again. 

I had arranged a morning out into the townships with a pro-photographer for David’s birthday present and we went out with Peter on Monday.  He and Polelwe were so lovely and took us to meet lovely people who were gracious enough to let us photograph them.  It was a truly humbling experience when you realise how little so many people have and we have so much that we aren’t grateful for.  I learned a bit about my photos and got a couple I really love out of the millions we took on the day!

We went to Sally’s for her 25^th wedding anniversary in the evening and Joe and David braved the waters of the pool.

Tuesday saw us heading around Chapmans’ peak and then to Hout Bay for fish and chips on the beach.  Joe loved the sea and spent hours running up and down the water front.

Wednesday we went to the district 6 museum and on the Cape of Good Hope Castle where we played baddie knights.

Lydia’s ‘hen night’ at Pancho’s Mexican.  The most delicious marguritas and a very cute waiter!

Poor Joe had a tummy bug last night but is hopefully over it.  Poor chap had nasty cramps – but is after chocolate again today so seems better.

Well enough idle chatter – that’s just the brief précis of the last week. 

Off camping and then on Safari – see you soon