Saturday, 12 May 2007

SOME MORE OF THE GOOD STUFF


DAY 12:

It’s Saturday again, which means it’s a day where we get to see familiar faces! Natasha and Johan were going to camp with us for one night, at the foot of the mountain. When I spoke to her though, she said that my friend Julie, her husband Pierre and kids, Miguel and Claudia were going to join us. We were exited to see them all, but we only packed up camp after it got a bit warmer outside.
They were going to meet us at the bottom, but as of yet, we didn’t know where at the bottom. We couldn’t see a clear way down, as there were a couple of gorges, that all ran down to the bottom, and not easy to get around. At the bottom, there were too many bushes and trees, to even consider going through.
We had about an hour left to get to the bottom. We decided to go up, and walk on the escarpment, till we got to the other side of those gorges, in the hopes that there will be an easier, quicker way to get down. As we got round this ridge, we found a 4x4 track that was going down. It was heading back towards the gorge, but then turned left, and around again. It took us a while to get down, and it was difficult to explain to everyone where we were, because we couldn’t see where they were, and our directions from way up here, just didn’t seem the same on the ground.
Hectic miscommunication! After about 2 hrs, we all managed to find each other, and what a sight for sore eyes. We decided to check into a friends place nearby, because we desperately needed to freshen up a little, and needed to charge mobile, camera & desktop batteries. It was fabulous to see everyone, but I could only relax once I had a shower, a fresh change of clothes, and something cold to drink.
We’re beginning to look forward to these little get togethers, because we get so spoiled every time. We rented 2 chalets at a place called West Hadden, owned by Lettie and Chris Hoeksema, a lovely retreat, near the Buffelspoort dam. My mother came around for a quick visit, so sad you couldn’t stay longer! We listened to the Bulls & Crusaders match on the radio, and what a game! Well done Bulls! They’re through to the Super 14 Final!
Hermien and Scalla were also there, and Hermien, you made a killer seafood soup, thanks! God bless your soul, you brought your map of the area with, so we could actually see where we are, and where we might find water, and where all the cool spots are. Everybody gave us useful tips on what to look out for, some more history, and a very good idea of where to come down when we need to.
The kids loved it out here. Johan and Miguel were like two angels, you hardly ever knew they were there, and they made the best barbeque ever. Love you boys. Claudia precious as ever, just came by to weave some of her magic. Love you my girl. Maria went to bed early, and Natasha was next to fall, so Julie, Pierre and I kept going for a little while longer. I had a great time, and thanx you guys, for being here, and making it special.
What a nice way to end the day, surrounded by good energy, love and magic.
Night, night