Zwartkops

Saturday was woken by Hubby with a coffee at half four. He was all eager to be off to Zwartkops and didn’t want to waste any time. I drank my coffee and then got up to wake Diane and Wayne with a cup of tea each. I dressed, fed the animals and put the little ones into the front yard for the day - it would be too long a day to leave them shut in the house. We were all ready by five forty five and left for our day out. First stop was the garage for petrol and cold-drinks before heading for Alberton to meet friends who were also going. We were on our way just after six and arrived at Zwartkops about seven twenty. I couldn’t believe how many people were already there. We parked behind the first stand, put our cushions out to keep our seats and then started our breakfast braai (I was really hungry now). The weather was overcast and cold. I had thought it would be a hot day seeing that we were in Pretoria and hadn’t brought a jacket with. Luckily Ian had extra jackets and gave me one to wear. We had a delicious breakfast of bacon, eggs, tomato, sausage, beans and rolls. While the men folk packed everything back into the bakkie and car Diane, Wayne and I headed for the Pits to check out the cars. Wayne was in his element running around taking pics. Diane and I took pics and then headed over to get a cup of coffee from the canteen. While we had our coffee we wandered around the bikes taking more pics. Bikes headed out into the track for the first event of the day. We finished our coffee while watching the race before heading back to the stand where Diane wanted to change the memory card in her camera. I stayed at the stand to watch the racing while Diane and Wayne headed back to the pits to take more pics. We had chosen a good spot to sit as it was on a bend. We had a good view of the cars coming down the straight, racing round the corner and then round into the second bend before continuing down and past the pits area. It was exciting viewing! We saw our fair share of spins and cars losing control. The Trans-Am Pre 1974 and the Pre 1966 Legend Production Cars were the most exciting to watch. The muscle power of these cars is phenomenal. My heart was in my mouth every time the cars raced round the corners. I was so relieved there were no accidents. One of the events was the ` Elana Classic Touring Cars (Handicap) Radio Highveld. Both Wackhead (in a 1962 Ford Anglia) and Paul Rotherham( in a 1965 Alfa Sprint GT) raced in it. I take my hat off to both of them for having the guts to participate. I told Diane that if it was me I would have pulled off and sat quivering like a jelly after the first corner. According to Hubby the most powerful muscle car there was a Plymouth Fury and the most collectable an Aston Martin DBR1 both 1957.
It was really cold up on the stands and I was glad of the warmth cuddling up to Hubby. Diane and Wayne came back and sat with me while Hubby and friends went off for their tour of the pits. My ankle wasn’t feeling too good so I stayed put. Old Dougie had made sandwiches and dished them out to all of us at lunchtime when we were all together again. After lunch Diane and I headed back to the pits to find a loo (Those portable things are just too awful).We used the facilities and then wandered around the pits again. The air was full of the noise of revving cars getting ready and the buzz was electric. We watched a race from the front of the pit area before heading back to the stand. By three the early start was catching up with me and I nearly fell asleep waiting between events. I had visions of falling asleep and toppling off the stand. At three the Legends of the 9 Hour Production Cars was on again followed by the Trans- Am Saloon Cars. Both were such exciting races that by the end of it I was wide awake. We left soon after at about four. At the exit were three speed cops directing traffic as the road we needed to turn into was very busy. We were first in line to turn as the speed cop directing had just allowed the car in front through. The three of them chatted awhile and then when there was a queue behind us one of them stepped into the middle of the road to stop the traffic. To the left the traffic stopped but the first car from the right didn’t. The cop got agitated and waved wildly at the car to stop. The driver didn’t understand and though he slowed kept coming. He must have thought it was a roadblock because he started to pull to the side of the road right in front of us. The cop freaked out at him telling him that when he is told to stop he must stop. Obviously he was not so polite to the driver! When the driver had stopped and the cop had finished performing he indicated to us and the queue to go. As we drove around the driver to get onto the road the cop was still freaking out at the driver. I bet that’s the last time that driver doesn’t stop immediately when told to do so. Seeing as we were right there in Pretoria Hubby decided to go via the Voortrekker Monument to show it to Wayne. We drove through and stopped for Wayne to take pics of some zebra and buck before heading to the monument. The view from up there over Pretoria is stunning. Diane and I left Wayne taking pics of the view while we went up and took some pics by the monument. This done we headed back home arriving about six. Wayne had made arrangements to meet a friend from his school days here at Carnival City so he showered and changed. Hubby went to relax and rest his foot while Diane and I sat watching TV. When Wayne was ready Diane and I took him to his meeting place. We all went to the casino entrance where Wayne was to meet his friend. While Wayne waited Diane and I headed inside to get something to drink before returning home. We found a coffee bar and sat down to order a cappuccino each. While waiting for the coffee we decided we might as well eat as it would be rather late when we got back home. When the coffees came we ordered a plate of French fries and a basket of fried haloumi and ciabatta bread to share. Both the food and the coffee were good. People were queuing for seats at the coffee shop by the time we were finished. We walked around afterwards and everywhere was busy. Carnival City was absolutely packed – I couldn’t believe how many people were there. When we left a train at the entrance was just leaving for the car park and another pulled up so we climbed on. While waiting for the train to full up I quickly sent an sms to Ros for her birthday. It was after ten by the time we got home. Hubby was fast asleep already. Diane and I had our Milo and headed off to bed. It had been a very long but very good day.

On Sunday morning I eventually surfaced when Hubby brought me coffee and toast in bed just before ten. I chilled in bed with my breakfast before getting up. We all had a very lazy chilled day with nothing energetic happening at all. Hubby rested his foot while watching TV, Diane did some computer work and I did my blog for last week. In the afternoon I lay and read my book which I managed to finish at last and Diane had a nap. Hubby made a pasta dish with bacon and tomato while I was reading. It was nice to get up and find a meal waiting. Diane and I chilled with a glass of wine outside at about five after which I started the weekend blog. At eight we watched the Sunday night movie which was `Taken in Broad Daylight’ while having our usual Milo. Diane is now bathing and I am finishing the weekend blog ready to post after which we shall be heading for bed. My restful day has been good for my ankle as it is not so swollen now.
Cheers and I hope you all have a wonderful week.

End of Week

Thursday was up to a clear day. Chilled with the birds while having my cuppa. It was a beautiful day and I felt wonderful after such a good start. Checked the news and was thrilled to hear that a teenage age girl had been pulled out from the rubble after 15 days. Miracles like this was be so rewarding for those working there. After breakfast Hubby went off to the workshop while I carried on with office work and faxed and e-mailed what I could on the computer. Diane and Wayne went off to see Avatar - Hubby and I are going to see it tomorrow afternoon. I started lunch and did some cleaning managing to finish at half two, after which I quickly went into Alberton to finish the faxing. At the workshop I did my faxing before going to Alberton City for shopping. Hubby was busy with my bakkie which wasn’t finished so he came with me. By now my ankle was throbbing and painful so he drove. I must have twisted it or something to make it flare up that way it did. It’s been three weeks and it is still swollen. We did our shopping and then headed home arriving about half five. I put the supper to carry on cooking while we chilled with a glass of wine outside. Diane phoned to ask for an alternative way home as the highway was at a standstill. They had come out the movie at five and then shopped and had coffee to pass the time till the homeward bound traffic was clear but that hadn’t helped. I directed them and carried on with supper while watching `Sea Patrol’. It was about half seven when they got back and they mashed the potatoes for me so I could finish watching my show –Real Addict. I dished up and we ate while they chatted about their enjoyable outing. They both really enjoyed `Avatar’. Diane said it was even better to see it the second time. I can’t wait to see it. We finished the evening with our usual Milo and chores before heading to bed.
Friday the weather was still good so was able to start the day the Right Way with my chill and cuppa outside. Got the dogs fed and the breakfast done early as Hubby and I wanted to go to the 2 o’clock showing of `Avatar’. Hubby was off early to the workshop to finish the bakkie so we could use it over the weekend. I started cleaning as I wanted the place all clean ready for the weekend. We would be out all day Saturday and Sunday I intend to have a lazy day so today was the only time to do it. About mid –morning I phoned Hubby to see if he was on track for the afternoon movie. He was not having a good day and was behind schedule so we decided to go to the five showing. At least I had more time to clean up. By lunchtime I was all finished and decided on a nap. I was up at half one just in time to greet Donovan who had come to fetch Wayne for a late lunch. Hubby attived home at about half three and went to shower. When he got out of the shower he told me his foot was giving him a lot of hassle as it was very painful. He had been running up and down at the workshop and overdoing things. I checked his foot and was horrified to see that his toe was bleeding profusely. He soaked his foot and afterwards it was still pouring blood. I told him to go to bed and rest his foot if he wanted to go to Zwartkops on Saturday and that the movie would still be there next week. After protesting he complied with my orders. I was very worried as I had never seen his toe bleed like that before. Diane was off out to go see `Prime Circle’ in Alberton but first came with me to get takeaways in Meyerton. I got fish and savoury rice for Hubby and myself while Diane had a veggie burger and chips. When we got back we ate while Diane finished getting ready before setting off to meet up with Wayne for their night out. She arrived just before six and joined a queue outside the place but when she got to the entrance she was most upset to learn that no tickets were being sold at the door. When she phoned on Thursday morning the lady who answered the phone told her the cost of getting in and told her to be there at six. Her and Wayne ended up joining friends in Henley instead. I spent the evening in front of the TV watching `Sea Patrol’, `Lie to Me’ and `Bangkok Dangerous’. All were good shows. I had my Milo and went to bed about midnight just before Wayne and Diane got home.

Our week

On Monday was up as usual to start of the normal weekly routine. I was able to sit outside and enjoy the peace under the trees. A pair of sunbirds were feeding among the flowers while I was chilling. There were a lot of birds around, obviously making the most of the clear weather. The birds are so used to me sitting outside that they ignore me now. It’s wonderful to see them close up. After breakfast Hubby went into the workshop – stitches and staples are out so now it’s back to work. I hope he takes it easy. I did some office work and my Sars return ready to take in. Mid-morning we went into the workshop to drop off the gloves that Hubby had walked past on his way out. Working with hot metal from the fire needs tough gloves which don’t last too long and always need to be replaced. Once we had checked on things and made sure Hubby wasn’t overdoing it we carried on to the computer shop where Diane upgraded the ram on her laptop. The technician put it in for her and then we headed to Alberton City where we had some lunch at the Coffee Shop. Diane and I had avo, feta and mushroom on ciabatta with coffee while Wayne had a pawpaw and steak salad with a milkshake. The food was enjoyable as usual. We wandered around a bit before heading home via the tax office. At home Diane got onto her computer and was most upset to find it wouldn’t accept the new ram. I read some more of my book before starting supper. After supper we watched some TV with our Milo before heading for bed.
On Tuesday woke up to light rain so chilled in front of the window again. We headed off to Boksburg , fairly early, to the Traders Market for Wayne to see if there was anything suitable as gifts for family and friends back home. The first stop was the workshop to take in December statements for those that hadn’t received them. The place is rather quiet at the moment – normal start-of -year business as most places are still getting back into routine again. When we left there Diane set her GPS phone for the route as I haven’t driven that way for years. These gadgets are wonderful inventions – no trying to find the way on the map – just someone saying turn right, turn left, go straight. I don’t know how we survived without them. We arrived at the East Rand Mall first and went in to draw bucks before going over to the market. Diane and I had a wonderful time wandering around all the stalls – us shopaholics. Typical male, Wayne got bored though he did do some shopping. We got home just in time as no sooner were we indoors then the sky opened and we had a cloudburst. It was so heavy it was impossible to even see out the windows. We all had a chill time as there was not much else to do with the storm raging. I read some more of my book. Hubby came home late afternoon and was not feeling good at all. He showered, did his foot and got into bed. I wish Men were better at looking after their health. It’s us women who do all the worrying for them and then get kakked out for caring. Life’s a b****. I gave Hubby a healthy meal while Diane and Wayne went into Meyerton for some dvds and KFC.` We are healthy enough to eat fast foods!’ Sometimes! After eating I cleaned the kitchen while the two of them watched a dvd. We all watched and enjoyed the second one which was `Up’. Animation movies are fantastic and it’s unbelievable how many people are needed to make one. It was after twelve before we eventually got to bed.
On Wednesday it was still all wet outside so missed my chill under the trees though sitting looking out the window is almost as good. Everywhere is waterlogged and so lush and green. There has been so much rain – this is the fourth week of rain now- that many areas have flooding problems. Today they pulled out a man still alive twelve days after being buried by the aftershock in Haiti. That must be one of the worst things to happen. Lying under rubble waiting and hoping for rescue and not giving up takes an amazing strength. On the sports news the broadcaster mentioned the International Absa Epic Race that will take place the end of March through the Western Cape. The race is 722kms and takes place over eight days through fantastic scenery. I have made a note to watch it as I’m sure it will be well worth watching.Diane went in to Alberton early to sort out her laptop and Wayne and I went into Meyerton quickly. Me to sort out our water account and Wayne to buy himself a couple of things. When we got back I started my statements – that time again. Unfortunately or luckily it didn’t take too long as most places only opened on the 11th and there weren’t that many invoices. The weather was fairly clear, though there is a lot of moisture in the air, so I put some washing on. Diane came back late morning most upset as the technician just put back her old ram and refunded her saying the laptop can’t take bigger ram. We will get advice from someone else! We had a few very brief showers during the day but not enough to affect the washing on the line which took all day to dry. Diane and I went into Meyerton to sort out things at the bank and to do some shopping. I discovered a new butcher in town and got some meat there to try out. Wayne was picked up late afternoon by Donovan to go to friends for supper. Diane and I chilled with a glass of wine before I made supper. I did chips, creamed spinach and steak. The meat was so tender it just melted in your mouth. I will definitely be going back to the butcher again. After supper I cleaned the kitchen and watched TV. Diane made the Milo and we did some computer work together. It was about half ten when Diane went off to bed. Wayne arrived back about half eleven just as I was getting ready for bed. The sky was clear and the stars were out - haven't seen them for weeks.

Weekend

Weekend
Saturday was up early to another overcast day. There was a very light rain falling so I had my coffee in front of the window again. Hubby joined me for a cuppa and told me all about his visit yesterday afternoon to a friend who collects old cars. The guy had five Lancias in his garage plus about thirty Alfas and Hubby had had a wonderful time admiring and talking cars. Men and their toys! He is determined to take Diane and I there to see his friend’s garage full of cars which hopefully will happen this week. After breakfast and seeing to the dogs I started to clean up and tidy everywhere. The rain cleared and I put some washing on which luckily dried before the rain started again. It kept threatening with a build up of cloud, thunder and lightning but held off till late afternoon. During the afternoon I watched `Reign over me’ which was a very sad movie. Diane wasn’t feeling too good so she went for a nap. Hubby was resting his foot after his busy Friday. At one stage he was bored so he got his binoculars out to watch birds and spotted a baby dove in the grass. It must have been trying to learn to fly. The mother was busy backwards and forwards feeding her baby. I hope it managed to fly or found somewhere to shelter before the rain started.
Late afternoon when Diane felt better and got up she had an sms from a friend inviting her out so she quickly had a snack meal and got herself ready to leave. The heavens opened and the rain bucketed down just before she left so it was lucky she wasn’t going far. She met her friend (they hadn’t seen each other since nursery school)and they spent an hour or two catching up on each others news before Diane went into Alberton to meet Wayne at News Café. I watched some TV, had my Milo and then went to bed to read my book. It is a good book but unfortunately as soon as I start reading my eyes get heavy and I fall asleep. It was still raining and I dozed on and off as I was worried about Diane coming home in the rain so couldn’t fall properly asleep. Her and Wayne were home about half two so I was able to fall asleep at last.
On Sunday I only managed to surface at about half nine. Hubby was up and had sorted himself out with breakfast already. I had my cuppa and some cereal (it was the easiest to prepare) in front of the window again as it was still very wet everywhere. The dogs had left me a nice present as one of them obviously didn’t want to get wet feet outside. Lovely start to my Sunday. We had a lazy morning before getting ready to go for a braai to meet Donovan’s family. We arrived at about one and met his brothers and mother with their partners and spent a pleasant afternoon getting to know each other though it is always rather awkward meeting people for the first time like that. Luckily the rain held off and we were able to chill outside by the pool. It was early evening when the gathering broke up and everyone left for home. Wayne stayed on as he needed to go via Donovan’s place to fetch his camera he had left there. We chilled with a coffee when we got home and relaxed with some computer games. Hubby was feeling energetic so decided to make supper. He made a tasty meal of chicken and vegs which we all enjoyed. The only problem was all the cleaning up in the kitchen afterwards – though I must admit it wasn’t that bad! Diane and Wayne were on the computer while I watched the `Money Train’ which I enjoyed. While I was watching the Neighbourhood Watch Siren went off, much to Wayne’s delight. Diane phoned and found out that shots had been reported in the area and all available members were off to do a patrol. Hubby and Wayne duly went off to do their bit for the neighbourhood. Wayne was thrilled to have the excitement and is hoping the Siren will go off again before he goes back home. Shame! Those Ozzies sure lead boring, crime- free lives over there. We don’t know how lucky we are to live in such exciting times. Once the movie was over we had our nightcap of a Milo and then Diane and I went off to bed. But first I made sure the dogs had been out for their last time as I certainly didn’t want any surprises again. Wayne was still busy on facebook so he stayed up. I read till one again by which time he had gone to bed. Hubby of course had been in dreamland for hours.
Cheers and have a good week. Don’t work too hard.

End of week

Thursday was up to another overcast day. Had my chill looking out the window again which seems to be becoming a habit now. I sure miss chilling under the trees but am not complaining about the rain as the years of low rainfall and trees dying are not pleasant memories. Hubby started his day working on the Deke which apparently had a flange on the water pipe giving problems. Unfortunately it broke while he was working on it and him and Wayne went off to the workshop to make another one. This one was to be in brass as the broken one was in cast iron which it seems is not so good. Diane and I spent the day working - me with office work and her with her computer homework. I did a bit more washing as the weather cleared slightly. Hubby returned home late afternoon in time for a prospective car club member to come show his car (Pontiac) off and to enquire about joining the Piston ring. While they were playing cars outside I made supper. It was all ready and they were still playing cars so Diane and I ate on our own. We had just finished when they came in to eat. After everyone had eaten I cleaned the kitchen and then chilled in front of the TV with the usual Milo. Diane and Wayne went off to News Café for a chill time together.On Friday was able to chill under the trees again as the chairs were dry and the rain held off. After breakfast was over Hubby was off to Alberton as he had a day of visiting and chilling with friends with a brief stop to check that all was on track at the workshop. Diane and Wayne headed off to Treehaven Bird Park to take pics while` poor hard-done-by me’ carried on with office work. Life can be cruel sometimes! The two of them were back at lunchtime with some Chinese take-aways. I had prawn fried rice which I enjoyed. Poor Diane who had ordered vegetarian noodles got prawn noodles – much to her disgust. Wayne entertained us with some music again after which I went to chill with my book. Late afternoon Donovan came to take Wayne for the weekend. Hubby was still out with his friend and as Diane was starving the two of us went off to Steers. I had a Steak roll and chips while Diane had a veggie burger and chips which she really enjoyed. Hubby had prawn noodles for supper. We didn’t tell him it was Diane’s unwanted food of course! Luckily with all the takeaways the kitchen was clean and we were able to chill in front of the TV watching `Madagascar : Escape to Africa’ which we both enjoyed. After that was ` Lie to me’ which is a really good series – at least I think so! We had our Milo and were off to bed fairly early so that I could read more of my book.

Monday - Wednesday

Was woken before six by thunder rumbling all around. It was very black outside and it soon started raining hard again. I had my coffee and chill time sitting watching the rain through the lounge window. Everywhere is so waterlogged. After breakfast Hubby, Wayne and Diane headed into Alberton for Hubby to check up on the workshop. Wayne also wanted some things from the shops and Diane wanted to get strings for her guitar. I had a relaxing morning doing the crossword in between doing some washing and tidying up. The rain continued until early afternoon and I used the tumble dryer to dry the washing. The rain stopped about half two though there was still a lot of moisture in the air. Hubby had stopped for some meat to braai on the way home. While Wayne put the strings on the guitar Diane and I made something to drink. After getting the guitar tuned in Wayne entertained us with music and song and I made some salads ready for the braai. Luckily the weather was quite pleasant now. Donovan arrived to meet Wayne at about half four and we started the braai. We had a really super evening chilling and chatting. Wayne enjoyed having a South African braai. After eating Hubby went to rest his foot, Wayne and Donovan continued chatting and playing the guitar while Diane and I watched the dvd ` Mars Attacks’. It is a rip off movie and was hilarious. After that we watched `Dragon Wars’ which wasn’t that good and we kept falling asleep. Donovan left about half eleven and we had our Milo before showering and getting into bed
On Tuesday morning it was still overcast so I had my coffee looking out the window while chilling again. Diane and Wayne were up early as they were heading off to Newtown for the day. They left just after eight so as to miss most of the early morning traffic. I spent the morning doing office work while Hubby rested as he wasn’t feeling too good again. In the afternoon we both had a nap before getting up for a cuppa. Diane and Wayne arrived back just after five. Wayne headed for his room to have a nap. Diane and I had a Milo while she told me about her day. Both of them had enjoyed themselves immensely going to Museum Africa, Sci Bona and a photography exhibition at the Market Photo Workshop. The highlight was their visit to the SAB breweries where they had a tour and lunch. The tour includes two beers afterwards. Hubby and I have decided on a visit to the breweries sometime soon. Diane and I quickly popped off to the garage for airtime for the internet after which we had supper. We spent the evening watching ` Angels and Demons’ as well as a new series that was starting- `Flash Forward’. They were both good. Wayne surfaced at about nine and played the guitar for a while. We all had a Milo at eleven before heading to bed. It started raining again just before midnight.
On Wednesday I surfaced when the alarm woke me to find it was raining. Chill time with my coffee in front of the lounge window again. The dogs had a quick dash outside after having their biscuit treat and then returned to curl up in their baskets. After breakfast I did some office work before getting ready for Alberton. Hubby was due to visit the Dr. to have his staples and stitches out. We dropped Wayne off at Alberton City where he was meeting Donovan and headed off to the Dr’s rooms. Hubby went in while Diane and I went around some shops. The Dr was very busy and when we went up Hubby was still waiting to go in so Diane and I went down to the hospital café for a coffee and snack. As we finished Hubby joined us for his drink and snack. I had an avo, bacon and feta sandwich, Diane had a vegetarian wrap and Hubby had a mince sandwich and salad. We all enjoyed the food. After leaving there we headed up to the workshop for a quick check on the place before going shopping. First stop was the nursery where Hubby got some more plants for the garden. Still sticking to his resolution of plant, plant and plant. Next was off to the chemist to get supplies for dressing his toe. When we arrived home it was raining again and it continued raining until evening. Hubby off- loaded his plants – a tree, creepers and flowers. There was thunder and lightning around so couldn’t use the computer. Nothing for it but just had to have a nap again but as it was already four it was only a short one. Wayne arrived about half five and we all had a cuppa before I started supper. After eating I cleaned the kitchen before chilling with a Milo in front of the TV. Diane and Wayne watched ` District 9’ and then got onto the computer. No sooner had they started then Diane felt really ill and went off to bed. Wayne stayed on the computer a while before he went off to bed. I watched some more TV and then went to bed where I read until about one before putting out the light and going to sleep. I have started reading ` The Waters of Madness’ by W.A.Ballinger and am really enjoying it.
Cheers for now

Weekend with Wayne

Was up early to chill with my coffee before starting my cleaning. Diane was out early to go for her next computer course lesson. I spent the morning getting all ready before Wayne arrived. Diane was home just before four and we had a quick cup of Milo before leaving for the airport. The trip there was a nightmare with all the hold-ups due to the road works along the way. We arrived and made our way in to the arrivals hall. Wayne had just come through so we were straight back to the car for the trip home. Luckily the homeward bound side of the highway had less road works construction going on so we made good time. We stopped at the blockhouse 1 stop where Wayne was off for some pics of the blockhouse for his buddies back home. Once we arrived at the house Wayne got himself organized in his room before him and Diane went off to News Café for the evening. Wayne was all excited to see some night life (Oz doesn’t have much in that line for the youngsters). The two of them had a really good time before tiredness hit Wayne. He had been up about 18 hours by then. What it is to be young and energetic! While they were out I chilled with my Milo and watching TV before my bed called me.
On Sunday we were up early for a bacon and eggs breakfast before leaving for the Piston Ring Meet. Wayne was really looking forward to this as he remembers many good times there with us from when he used to live here. Diane and I drove in her car while Wayne and Hubby went in the Sunbeam – Wayne driving much to his delight. We arrived about half nine and had a really super time catching up with friends. Hubby did not behave himself as usual. He had promised he was not going to walk around but just sit there. Huh! He kept disappearing to check cars and chat to friends. Wayne had a busy time taking lots of pics of cars and bikes and was really lucky as Hubby organized a ride in a 1905 Renault for him. We left about lunchtime to take a slow ride back through Edenvale where Wayne wanted to visit his school and where they lived when they moved to Oz. He took his pics of both places after which we headed home. By the time we got to the highway they had long gone. The closer to home we got the darker it got and as Diane and I approached the block house it was pouring with rain. The rain was so heavy we could hardly see in front of us and had to crawl along. It was really scary to drive through. Luckily it wasn’t far on the highway before our turnoff. Everywhere was like a river. Hubby and Wayne had taken the top off the Sunbeam in the morning but still had the soft-top on the car. We hoped they had been able to stop and put it up before the rain hit them. We crawled along to our road and found a dam across the bottom where we needed to turn so decided to go around the block and come from the top end. Good ideas are not always good! The top of the road was like a torrent but we had no choice and just crawled through it. I must say Diane drove well through all that. When we got to the gate Hubby and Wayne were parked in front of it. At the Piston Ring I had bought a cover to protect the Sunbeam and they were sitting under it both soaked to the skin. They had not been able to put the soft-top on and had driven through the cloud- burst with no protection. To Wayne it had been a wonderful adventure and he had taken a video of their experience. We unlocked the gate for them ( shame we had the keys) and after parking they rushed in and changed into dry clothes. The rain continued to bucket down for a good hour or so. It has been years since we have had such a downpour. When the rain eased off Wayne got in some target practice with the pellet gun and him and Diane drove around Henley taking pics of the area. After supper the two of them started watching a dvd but it wasn’t long before Wayne fell asleep. He must have been exhausted after his long day on Saturday and early start today. Diane and I watched TV and had our Milo before we headed off to bed.
Cheers! Have a good week.

Recovery Time

It has been a fairly quiet week. Most of my time has been taken up with looking after Hubby. I have still been having my morning start of chill time outside under the trees. I need it to keep me sane and to get ready for my day. Diane and I have also been having our sundowner time each evening. Early morning and late afternoon are such beautiful times outside it would be a sin not to have our chill times out there. We also have the occasional Milo and timtams out there mid afternoon.
Hubby is doing quite well but has his good days and his not so good days. He had an appointment to see the Sister on Wednesday to see how his cuts were doing after the op. She was happy with his progress but warned him to take it easy. No work until the 25th January at the earliest and no lifting for at least six weeks as hernias could occur where the cuts are. He can eat fatty foods but will be sick for several days afterwards whenever he does now. So Hubby will learn the hard way what to avoid. My ankle is still rather swollen and painful so I’m trying not to use it too much which is not easy. Hubby is getting very frustrated with being at home and doing nothing but as the Sister said, his cuts don’t look much but he had major work done inside and his body will take a long time to recover. Also the anesthetic will affect him for weeks. His toe is still not too good and the hole has actually got bigger – it can’t heal because there is no blood supply there anymore. He will need to go back to the diabetic specialist to see if anything can be done to improve circulation.
Today(Friday) a friend came to visit Hubby and they sat outside under the trees chilling and chatting with tea/coffee and timtams. He enjoyed the visit immensely as I’m sure he must be bored with just our company. While they were outside Diane and I did some chores and watched TV. The friend left just before one and we got ready to go into Alberton to the workshop. All was well and going smoothly there. Hubby checked on things and pointed them in the right direction where it was needed. We spent about an hour or so there before leaving for the News Café where we were meeting somebody at three. It was only half two when we got there so we ordered something to drink and a meal. Hubby and I had a Prawn and Avo salad while Diane had Haloumi and avo salad. The food was delicious and our drinks refreshing. As we were finishing off the acquaintance( last seen about twenty years ago) arrived and joined us. We spent a pleasant couple of hours getting to know each other again and catching up with each other’s news. After leaving there we stopped at the supermarket to stock up on food for the weekend. Once home again we unpacked the shopping and then Diane and I chilled with a glass of wine outside. The wind had started blowing and clouds were building up so it looks like some rain is in store for us again. I want to do some tidying and cleaning tonight as Wayne is arriving from Perth tomorrow afternoon. Must get his room all ready for him and everywhere clean so the Sunday and week will be free to spend time with him. We are really looking forward to seeing him again. Diane is off out to meet friends and I will post the blog, have a Milo for energy and start cleaning.
Cheers and have a fantastic weekend.

Home from Hospital

Friday
I was up at the usual time for a quick cup of coffee outside before carrying on cleaning. The anti-inflammatory had worked because my ankle was now the size of a golf ball. What a relief! I phoned the hospital just after eight to see how hubby was. He was fine and had taken to heart the advice to walk after the op as soon as possible. In fact he had been walking around so much they had to send him back to bed. Typical Hubby! He was determined to come home today. The Dr. had not been yet but the Sister was sure he would send Hubby home. I finished cleaning the front part of the house and then Diane and I got ready to leave for the hospital. We drove into the hospital parking area and found Hubby already out there. Talk about impatient or maybe just clever! This way I never heard the instructions he was given though he did say the Sister said NO Coffee or Fat of any kind and no steak or hard to digest meat for the first few weeks. The Dr was happy with his progress but had told him his gallbladder had still been infected which was dangerous as diabetics can’t heal properly. We quickly went to pick up Diane’s goldfish from its babysitter and headed home. When we got back Hubby was hungry and thirsty so we all had avo on toast and he had a cup of tea with his, after which he went to rest. Every now and again I found him walking around and when I moaned he said the Sister told him to walk. I told him I was sure she didn’t mean that much. Diane and I went into Meyerton to fill his prescription for his painkillers, anti-inflammatory tablets and antibiotics as well as to get suitable food for him. (Chicken and fish) I made him a light lunch of mash and chicken breast. We both had a nap during the afternoon. Late afternoon Diane set up her computer for Hubby to watch `The Hangover’. He thoroughly enjoyed it but couldn’t really laugh as it was too painful. Diane and I chilled with our shandies before I made him a supper of baked potatoes and steamed fish. Very quick and easy with that wonderful invention – the microwave. Diane had been busy on the computer while I had made his supper. I kicked her off as she was going to make the two of us a veggie noodle dish. I started the blog and did as much as possible before having to switch off due to the thunder and lightning activity around. Hubby wanted to taste our food so had a sample with us while we watched `Lie to Me’ on TV. After eating I loaded the dishwasher and switched on. Hubby went to bed after taking his painkiller and Diane and I had our Milo. I went to take the dogs out before locking up and couldn’t believe all the lightning flashing everywhere. Normally a storm comes from one direction is above for awhile and then passes over. This time the lightning was flashing in every direction like a large circle around the entire area. It was amazing to see. I locked up and went to bed. The rain started shortly after. It was a good downpour again.
Saturday
We were up earlier than usual as Diane had a computer course to go to on the other side of Joburg. She wasn’t too sure of the route and as I was visiting Val she was going to follow me there. We left at eight and after stopping for petrol headed over to the other side of town. I left her where she was having her lesson and set off for Val going past Pauline. I phoned to see if she was still at home or had already left for Val. She was still there so I stopped in order to follow her as I wasn’t too sure of the route from that side of town. She was going to fetch a kennel from Val and put her back seats down in her car before we left ready to load it. Diane was in her own car as her course would only be finishing about three and I didn’t want to be out too long with Hubby at home so I was in my bakkie. When we got to Val, her and Pauline measured the kennel and realized it was too big for the car so it was lucky I had the bakkie. We loaded the kennel after much maneuvering to get it through the gate. The roof of it fitted into Pauline’s car. We had our coffee, muffins and chat sitting on the patio. It was super to get together again. The lucky two with Kelly are off to Prague in Feb for Mom’s 80th birthday. Pauline and I left before twelve to take the kennel back to her place. We unloaded it and then I was off to go make Hubby lunch. As I drove in the gate Hubby was coming down the drive. I asked him where on earth he thought he was going. Can you believe it! He was off to get cigarettes. Really these men who don’t follow their Dr’s advice! He had also already made and had lunch. Gino arrived just after I got home to see how the patient was doing. We both tucked in to the pasta dish Hubby had made while waiting for the return of the errant patient. Gino visited for a couple of hours before leaving to enjoy the rest of his weekend. Diane returned at about half four. We chilled outside with a shandie followed by a glass of wine (I hadn’t had my daily dose of medicine for a while). Diane had really enjoyed her course and couldn’t wait to demonstrate all she had done and in no time at all was starting her homework. Hubby had a light supper before going to watch TV in bed while the two of us sat in front of the computer. I finished my blog before having a Milo and going to bed. My ankle was all swollen again so I dosed up again.
Sunday
Hubby bought me my coffee in bed about eight before making us scrambled egg on toast. He wasn’t too happy with me as I wouldn’t allow him to make bacon –No Fat Allowed. After breakfast we had a second cuppa chilling in our favourite spot. It was a beautiful sunny day again. With all the rain there are hundreds of midges around, bringing out the frogs and birds to feast. This is the first time we have ever had so many frogs around. Sitting there we were surrounded by clouds of midges. Hubby wasn’t feeling too good (overdoing things by driving) and my ankle was feeling very sore (overdoing things by driving) so we spent the day resting, reading and watching TV. Diane went out for the day to go and see Avatar with her cuzzies. She really enjoyed the movie and told us we definitely must go and see it. I made a light supper, Diane and I had a glass of wine and watched `Righteous Kill’ with Al Pacino and Robert De Nero. It was a good movie. We will now have our Milo after which I will load the dishwasher before going to bed.
Cheers and Have a Good Week

Op Day

Was up a little earlier than usual as Hubby must have breakfast before seven. I let the brats out and then sat with my cup of coffee. It was a perfect day in Paradise. The sun was shining, the sky was blue and the birds were singing. I made and took Hubby his breakfast. I had mine outside sitting under the trees again. When I got back inside I realized I hadn’t even noticed my surroundings. Next I decided to give the duck some bread. I went down to the cage and as I threw the bread into the pond realized my mind was definitely not on what I was doing. The poor duck had to dive sideways to avoid getting hit on the head. As the bread hit the water I thought `Oh, oh I didn’t watch out for land mines’. I checked my shoe and sure enough I had stepped into one. Luckily the grass is long and thick so I was able to clean my shoe.
I had better start concentrating but not so easy when worrying about Hubby and his op. People really don’t think! Yesterday someone told him that their mother didn’t survive the op and someone else said how bad the cut was across their stomach. Please! Those are things to say after the op has been done. Poor Hubby is also worrying hectically. Neither of us has slept well this week. His early mornings are more than likely due to this stress. I phoned the Dr’s rooms at eight to get the authorization number for the op (I did have it but don’t ask where I put it) so that the admission forms can be completed. No sooner had I finished the forms when the phone rang. It was a different woman from the Dr’s rooms asking me what time I last ate. I told her Hubby had eaten at about half six. She asked “Oh’ isn’t that Mr. L. What a dis! Do I sound like Hubby? She was phoning to wish him well for the op. Nice of her but now Hubby was even more worried about the op. I cleared up after breakfast , got ready, put the dogs out and we left for Alberton.
First stop was Sars to take in the return and then up to the workshop. We arrived there about half ten and Hubby went to check on things while I was busy in the office. The wreck of an MG car that Hubby had bought for spares arrived. He was so happy and dived straight in to check out the engine etc. I told him to leave it as he needed to stay clean for hospital. Needless to say the plea fell on deaf ears. Diane and I quickly went to get paint stripper for a Lancia that is getting worked on.
When this was done we set off for the hospital arriving just before the check-in-time of twelve. Once the paper work was completed we set off for the ward with his file. All his vitals were tested and recorded and he put on his hospital gown ready. There were three guys in the ward waiting to be operated on by the same Dr. At one we asked the Sister when operating would start and were told the Dr. starts at two so Diane and I decided to go get some lunch. We left the hospital for the shopping centre next door but instead of eating us two shopaholics shopped. The shopping centre was full of clothes shop that we just couldn’t resist and we each got a new dress. We were back at the hospital for two and found Hubby on his own as the other two had been taken through. The first guy was back within 20 minutes. The Sister came and gave hubby his pre-op tablet and then put him on a nebulizer as he is a smoker. Hubby clowned around with the equipment and pretended to fall asleep. Just before three he told us` whatever they gave me doesn’t work as I’m more wide awake than ever’. The next thing his head rolled to the side and he started snoring. We told him we knew he was just pretending again but he just carried on. We tried to wake him and realized he really was asleep. I adjusted his head to a more comfortable position and he stopped snoring. The Sister came in, laughed at him and removed the nebulizer. He soon started snoring again and we were so embarrassed as he is a loud snorer and the guy and his wife opposite the ward just sat and watched him. We were very relieved when they fetched him at about four and followed him out of the ward watched intently all the way by the couple. Diane and I watched him being wheeled into the theatre and then went down to the café for something to eat. We were really starving now.
After we had eaten we went back to the ward to see if he was out but the space was still empty in the ward. We sat for a while and then went to sit in the waiting area outside the theatre. At about five forty five Diane went down to get takeaway cappuccinos for us. While she was gone I noticed the guy who had taken Hubby to theatre and asked him if Hubby was out yet. He went to check and came back to say that Hubby was in the recovery room. No sooner had Diane got back when they wheeled him out. We followed back to the ward. Hubby was awake but in a lot of pain and still very sleepy. The Nurse Aide started checking him and then the Sister dashed in full of apologies for not being there when he got back. The wife of the second guy to be operated on had been in such a state that she had gone and thrown his false teeth in the bin. The Sister had been checking through all the bin bags downstairs and luckily had found them. The things you do in the line of duty! Painkillers were added to Hubby’s drip and he was checked to see all was ok. He was very thirsty and hungry but could only have a drink when he was more awake. As he was still so sleepy we headed for home about seven.
When we reached home it was almost dark. Diane dashed inside and I went to let the big dogs out into the yard. Walking away from the cage I remembered about landmines and didn’t want to walk across between the two paths so I leapt across. While I was in midair Amber decided to run for the gate and barreled into me. I went flying sideways and crashed onto my side. As I landed I felt my foot twist sideways and nearly died from the pain of it. I rolled onto my back and just lay there to recover. The dogs swarmed around licking my face. I was going to shout for Diane but realized she wouldn’t hear me as she was right at the other side of the house. I tried to get up but my foot was too painful to put pressure on it. I rolled over and got onto my knees and slowly and painfully managed to get up. I hobbled to the gate and let the dogs out before making my way inside. The Dr. had said Hubby would most probably let out tomorrow so I decided on giving the bedroom a good clean and change bedding so it would be all fresh for his homecoming. I even scrubbed the shower out. Diane was busy on the computer while I did all this. At about eleven I went into the pantry for some reason or other and was horrified to find the floor full of water. The trip switch for the fridges had tripped and they were busy defrosting. Thank goodness they were still cold. I put them back on and then proceeding to start mopping up the water. There was so much water so I got the broom and swept it all out the back door. Much easier! Well that was the third incident for the day and as things come in threes I was now safe. Diane made us a Milo and then I finished the bedroom and got in the bath. By now my ankle was like a tennis ball so I took an anti-inflammatory tablet and went to bed. Cheers for now…

Pre Op Time

Up as usual to my chill time outside after spoiling the bratty babes with their biscuit treat and letting them out. Today was back to normal for the workshop so Hubby was ready early and was gone by half seven. I spent the morning doing office work and some chores. I phoned the Dr’s rooms to confirm Hubby’s op. It is scheduled for the 7th and he, hopefully, will only be in overnight. The festive spirit was still with me so I was only working at half pace. It was still overcast with intermittent showers but about lunch time the sun came out. I quickly put the towels into wash but typical `Murphy’s Law’ by the time the load had finished it was pouring with rain. Not good for drying washing but very good for the garden which is getting very overgrown. Trees have came up everywhere and the established trees are needing a trim where they lean over pathways as it is getting harder to walk underneath them. I noticed the fish pond area outside our bedroom window is so overgrown it is impossible to get into. Hubby phoned to say the blacksmith shop was very quiet so everyone was busy with the overhauling of machines etc. He is trying to get as up to date as possible before going into hospital. Work is also back on track for the Stud Lark he is doing. Diane had to go into Alberton and left at five as Hubby arrived home. We were still having intermittent showers with lots of thunder and lightning which meant no computer. Very frustrating! I cooked supper and then spent the evening watching TV. Diane and I had a Milo late evening after which she headed for bed. I followed soon after.

On Tuesday Hubby was up, had made himself breakfast and was ready to leave by half six. I fed the dogs after he left and then Diane and I had our coffee before heading into Alberton for some shopping. It was still overcast but the clouds were high so I hung the towels out. (Didn’t want them to get that damp, musty smell).We spent a pleasant morning going around Alberton City, having breakfast at the Coffee Shop in between. We both had avo, mushrooms and haloumi cheese on toast. It was very tasty. We left Alberton about two and came home to find there had been more rain and my towels were sopping wet. Oh well! At least they had a very good rinse again. Diane went off to visit a friend while I just pottered around and did some more of my crossword. Hubby came home about five bringing snack food and lemonades with a couple of beers. We sat in front of the TV munching and having a shandie while he told me about his day. I watched Ghost Whisperer and then made supper. Diane must have smelt the food because she arrived as I was dishing up. We ate supper, after which I loaded the dishwasher before settling down with a Milo to watch CSI Miami. Once that was over there was nothing else worth watching so Diane and I got onto the computer. I eventually headed for bed at midnight leaving Diane still sitting at the computer.

Hubby was up again to sort himself out for an early start. I think he is doing it to avoid having to eat oats for breakfast more than wanting to get to work early though he has lots to organize before tomorrow. Maybe I should give him the benefit of the doubt. I had my coffee chilling outside enjoying the pleasant morning. It was still overcast but the clouds were high which normally means no rain. I spent the morning catching up on washing which seemed to have piled up very quickly. The towels were finally dry about ten. Once everything was cleared I got on the computer and got up to date with my banking. Late afternoon Diane and I popped out to the local shops to do some grocery shopping- mostly snack food. When we got back hubby was home so we made snacks and the three of us chilled outside with shandies feeding our faces. It was a beautiful afternoon with the sun shining in a blue sky again. After the snacks I was feeling rather tired as I had taken sinus tablets so had a nap before getting up to watch TV. I made a late supper – wasn’t very hungry after snacking – but did it for Hubby as I’m sure he will have to eat sparingly for a few days after the op. The dishwasher is loaded, I’m having a chai tea and the blog is done. All that’s left to do is shower and get into bed.
Cheers

First Weekend in 2010

Saturday morning was up at six when the alarm went off to put the brats out and have my coffee. It was an overcast morning but pleasantly warm to be sitting outside chilling. After feeding the dogs and putting them away so that the gardener could come in to work I made our breakfast. We were all still rather tired after the time in Pilansberg so didn’t do much at all today. In fact we napped during the morning in between reading and doing the crossword. For lunch Hubby and I decided to have some of the trout from Dullstroom. It was a very good decision. We had the trout with ciabatta rolls which were perfect together and absolutely delicious. We spent the afternoon chilling and napping until surfacing at about four. Very lazy but at least I felt refreshed and not as if I was a zombie. I made coffee and tea which we had with cake. I started supper and left it simmering while we checked what was on TV. I found no decent movie on so ended up watching `Any dream will Do’. It was a reality show to find the next Joseph for Andrew Lloyd Webbers production of Joseph and His Amazing Coat. Each show ends with another contestant eliminated. The talent was excellent and they were down to five contestants at the end of the show. After that there was nothing worth watching so Diane and I decided to put on the DVD for `The Hangover’. We thoroughly enjoyed the movie. The best part of a DVD is that you can pause whenever you need to do anything so I was able to finish supper in between watching and we ate while watching the end of the movie. We spent the rest of the evening watching TV and having our Milo. We weren’t very tired so stayed up till late. It had been overcast and rain threatening all day and finally early evening the rain started. It rained for most of the evening and when I went to bed at midnight the rain gauge registered 20mm of rain.

Sunday morning Hubby made breakfast in bed and I got up about nine. After the rain Hubby decided he was off to the nursery for some more plants. I think his New Year Resolution is ` Plant, plant and plant’. While he was gone I saw to all the brats and did a very half-hearted effort with some minor chores. Hubby arrived back with a car load of plants (including more herbs) and spent the rest of the morning planting and deciding where to put things. Thank goodness we have a large garden! At lunchtime he decided that he had done enough and left the last few for the gardener to plant. I must say the garden out the back is really looking good with all the new planting. After lunch a light rain started which lasted most of the afternoon. Diane and I plonked ourselves in front of the TV and were delighted to find ` Any Dream will Do’ was starting. We spent the rest of the afternoon watching it and by half four the final winner was announced. We both agreed that the best man had indeed won. It was Lee Mead and he was really talented and his performance was polished. I would love to see the production when it opens with him in the lead role. At about five the sun came out briefly and we suddenly had hundreds of flying ants everywhere. I closed the back door because once they get inside they are a nuisance flying around everywhere until they land and their wings drop off. Hubby was sitting outside having a smoke and called me to come and see. I went and found him watching frogs which had been attracted by the ants. There were about five of them and they were jumping up catching ants in mid-air. There were also doves and swallows tucking in. It’s amazing that any of them survive the feeding frenzy. I watched `Nim’s Island’ while Hubby made supper. After supper I loaded the dishwasher and then watched a couple of ‘Midsummer Murders’. Late evening we had a real downpour .Diane went to bed when the second one started as she was going to have a busy day on Monday. I watched TV until about one, checked the rain gauge ( 32mm) and then headed to bed after locking up. Our first weekend was a real lazy one but very enjoyable. I hope you all have a good week and for those of you starting work – Don’t overdo things. Those who have New Year Resolutions – Good Luck. My resolution is ` Play hard, work hard and enjoy life’ Cheers

More 2010 Pics

Welcoming 2010

New Years Eve
I was up early to let the brats out and have my morning cuppa. No time to chill outside though. I had my coffee while carrying on with tidying and cleaning. After breakfast Hubby went off to Meyerton to get a new battery for the bakkie as the one in it was flat. Apparently it was too small for what was needed and had gone flat. While he was gone Diane and I finished the cleaning and put all the foodstuff we were taking with ready to pack. We then got ourselves ready. Hubby was back at half eight and installed the new battery. It was now time to load the bakkie and put the perishables in the cooler box with ice blocks. We set out at half nine, first stopping for petrol and then salads and sandwiches from Woollies. By this time it was gone ten and later then we had expected but at least we were on the way. Hubby was driving but once we had left Joburg behind he asked me to take over as his foot was very painful. We were about half way there when he decided to take his sock off as his toe was throbbing terribly. No sooner had he done this when the bakkie was filled with the most dreadful smell. I thought is was something outside but Hubby said it must be his toe which had been bleeding and soaked the dressing. The smell got worse and Hubby insisted I stop on the side of the road so that he could clean his toe and put a fresh dressing on. Once this was done we carried on but the smell was still there for a while – must have been his sock! I was rather worried and told him I would do all the driving so he could rest his foot. We were almost there when we were stopped by police and rerouted through the top end of the Pilanesberg. This must have been due to the workers strike at Sun City. Once we were in the park we had a slow drive around on our way up to Bakubung (the people of the Hippo) where we were staying. We saw plenty of buck and a hippo on the way there. It was about one when we arrived to a welcome from Godfrey and Sandy. We all sat having a drink on the verandah looking across at the park. Our chalet was just a few metres from the fence. A monkey sat watching us as we sat watching him. Sandy and Godfrey left at half three for home. Hubby stayed at the chalet to rest his foot while Diane and I went for a walk along the fence until we found a good spot to sit and take some pics. There was plenty of bird life around. A Loerie landed behind me and started pecking at the grass – must have been ants there. We couldn’t believe how tame it was.When we returned Hubby was still chilling and we joined him to have a glass of wine. We sat with binoculars watching a couple of elephant near the dam wall in front of the camp. At five we decided to go for a drive. The bakkie was the perfect vehicle to use. It was nice and high which meant a better view above the grass level and the dirt roads were easily accessible. We spotted some vehicles stopped down a dirt road and went down to see what was there. To our delight it was a group of 4 white rhino. There were two adults, a junior and an infant. We carried along the track which took us right up high, spotting buck and zebra along the way. At the top was a spot to turn around and go back. The trip back was rather scary as it was a very steep downhill. Hubby gave me a lesson in gearing down instead of foot on the brakes. I was very nervous to stop using the brakes as I was convinced we would go over the side but by the time we got down I was used to it. Hubby was very proud of himself and me for doing it right. Petrol was a bit low now so we returned to the chalet where we chilled with another glass of wine (the glasses were small). Diane and I decided to go for another walk and were pleased to see a group of warthogs – parents and three babies. As soon as they saw us their tails shot up and they disappeared at a rate of knots into the grass. They didn’t return so we wandered around Bakubung before heading back to hubby. Hubby started the braai and braaied the meat when the fire was ready. I put the salads out and we ate about eight sitting outside. It was a perfect evening. The sky was clear, the birds were still singing and all was so peaceful. We sat till nine and then Diane and I went for a walk again. We followed the pathways which had intermittent lights along the sides. Diane suddenly whispered “ I can see something moving on the path ahead” As I strained to look in the half light an owl suddenly swooped across in front of us. We both got a fright and turned to go among the chalets where the lighting was better and found ourselves by the pool. When we tested the water it was so warm and as the place was deserted we decided to have a quick swim. We had a swim around before being joined by two kids with the same idea except they had cossies on. We got out and sat to drip off. The night was so warm we weren’t even chilled. We squelched back to the chalet where Hubby was watching TV. We wrung our clothes out so we wouldn’t wet the floors and then sat having a coffee and biscuits( Tim Tams from Oz). After that Diane and I showered and got ready to go see the New Year in, down at the restaurant. Hubby was determined to rest his foot after the scare on the way down to Pilanesberg so he stayed to watch TV. We arrived at the party and ordered ourselves a spiced gold and coke sitting at a table right next to the dance floor. Everyone was having a good time and we joined in on the dance floor. All too soon it was midnight and Auld Lang Syne rang out loud and clear. Goodness knows what any animals within earshot thought of all the hoo-ha! Once we were back on the dance floor an enthusiastic couple nearly floored Diane when they started swinging themselves around. We partied until one and then thought we better get back as we had an early start planned. It was half one when we got into bed. Hubby woke me at half five but I decided on an extra half hour sleep. Both Diane and I were woken with coffee at six. Hubby made a bacon and eggs breakfast which we ate chilling outside. There were francolins running around in front of the chalet – one even came pecking under the table. A little blue waxbill sat on the fence in front of us. After breakfast Diane and I had a last walk around before packing the car. We went to get petrol at Sun Village after which we returned to the park for another drive around. We stopped at the Mankwe hide which is on the dam. Right in front of the hide a Fish Eagle was sitting in a tree. We also spotted a Giant Kingfisher and a pair of Pied Kingfishers in another tree. In the water was a baby croc and digging a hole in the bank was a small leguan. On our drive around we saw herds of wildebeest, buck and zebras as well as plenty of giraffe and warthog. Unfortunately we missed seeing lion and elephant. We left the park at about one and went on to Sun City. Diane has never been there so we thought it was about time she did. We wandered around the casino and entertainment area before going to Squires Loft for lunch. The meal was absolutely delicious. Hubby and I had sirloin and chips while Diane had a vegetarian platter. Her platter included asparagus, haloumi cheese, spinach pies as well as cheesy mushrooms and baby potatoes. Unfairly and as usual Diane’s plate was twice the size of ours. Sometimes it pays to be a vegan. Of course we had the essential glass of wine with our meal.
We left Sun City at about half four stopping in Rustenberg for cold drinks for the journey back. As we rounded a curve in the road about halfway back Diane and I noticed a little dam, covered in a film of scum, on the side of the road. No sooner had we spotted it when the most terrible smell hit us. I immediately realized that this had been Hubby’s vrot foot on the way down and told him that his foot was stinking again. He got a fright and was already to stop and see to it when we laughed and told him that his foot was fine. He was very relieved to realize his foot wasn’t the culprit and never had been. I drove until just before getting into Ontdekkers road. I could hardly keep my eyes open so Hubby took over. I dozed on and off waking to find we were driving in pouring rain. We arrived home after dark to a tumultuous welcome from the dogs, managing to unpack the car before the rain started here. It had been a wonderful, peaceful New Year but now we were exhausted and it wasn’t long before we were in bed.
I hope everyone had a wonderful time seeing in the New Year. Cheers!