DAY 15
Okay, so turns out we're not at the Request, and this is not a MCSA camp spot. In fact, this place belongs to Penny Hoggsveldt. We got this information from a lovely young guy who arrived early morning to tend to the gardens. He's name is Umbulane, and he's worked here for a year. We got Penny's number from Umbulane, and phoned to say we've camped here, and to find out more about where we are.
Penny didn't know that the gorges were named, but according to Google Earth, the Request is on the other side of the East facing ridge. With Penny's permission, we've decided to stay here another night, and just do a day hike to the Request. It should be fun without all the baggage. This is the ideal get away, and looks like there have been many happy moments here. The Hoggsveldt's have collected some tremendous artifacts in the area, under which, there's a human skull. This is one of the oldest mountains in human history, so it'd be interesting to know more about said skull.
It's creepy at the same time. I don't scare easily, but when things become spooky, I'm careful. There are a few tall tales & myths, surrounding this mountain, and it does keep us on our toes, especially when it's suddenly dark, the dogs are edgy or protective, whatever, and the night sounds start to fill the silence. I even hear breathing, and since when is my hearing THAT good? It's since I started listening! As this happens, Maria decides, now is a good time to fall asleep. She closes her eyes, and even starts snoring, well, maybe it's more like a deep sleep, but straight away, no hassles.
There I am, can hardly breathe, I'm so scared. Wide eyed and bushy tailed, cannot even bat an eyelid, how will I close them? It's about then, every night, that I battle with my fears a bit, before I decide, bugger that. To be where we are now, is magical, nothing scary about that, a bit overwhelming perhaps, but scary, no. It's a little better now, they're friendly ghosts right?
There is like a message in a bottle, everywhere we go. Every challenge met, and every stone turned, has a message, but sometimes, we have to turn some more, before we finally get it. Having done this for almost 3 years, has been the best and worst times of my life. Owning up to the challenges of extreme terrain, extreme exposure to sun, wind and rain, and physical pain, makes you appreciate yourself and your capabilities more. The people who inspire you to go forwards still, that is what makes you appreciate the power of giving and sharing so much more. Truth and honesty, they are the jewels, embroidered on the bottom of every message. Many of us pride ourselves on the fact that we live honest lives, and do good every once in a while, and that we have nothing to be ashamed of, can look ourselves in the eye. It's fantastic, but some of us, are a bit slower on the uptake, we have to be sure, follow every whim, recreate and search, hide and seek before we can see it, hurt before we can understand.
Somehow I think it's the same journey for everybody, only difference is, to which extremes. We're all on our own journey through life, some hectic, others beautiful, but the amazing thing is, how everybody's paths have to become intertwined, before we can heal, live stronger, live more gallantly. Everything comes full circle in the end. Accepting responsibility for your life, somebody called it today. Those are grand words, but true.
It's become dark, we're back but were told to sleep in the house tonight – thanks Penny! Katryn is making big noise outside, warning off anything that dares enter her bubble. So pretty soon it's bed time. It's been a very, very good day, and I'm looking forward to tomorrow.
Umbulane brought us some coffee, after his lunch break. He is the sweetest, friendliest, helpful man, and he is always smiling. Another message unveiled through his unconditional kindness. Coffee, a bed, beautiful surroundings, and good company, what more do I possibly need.
Sweet dreams.
