A break to the "country" 27 - 30 April

When Rita was here a couple of weeks ago we promised we would visit  Barberton.  We decided that the long weekend was a perfect opportunity to visit as we hadn't been there in more than 20 years!!

On the road at about 07h30 on Friday morning and after a couple of stops along the way we arrived at around 14h00.  We stayed at Oppikoppi Inni Krater.  Our accommodation was a thatched chalet, small but cosy and very well equipped.  The view was amazing and the weather was great.  I don't think this part of the world ever actually has Winter!

 Rita and Michael were so excited and arranged a couple of outings for us.  Starting with a braai on Friday evening, followed by a movie in Nelspruit.  Gordon and I are not movie people but really had a good time watching "The Avengers" complete with popcorn, Slush and 3D glasses!!

On Saturday we had breakfast in Nelspuit at Mugg & Bean and then were off to God' Window.  Breathtaking views!

We stopped off in Graskop ont he way back and bought delicious biltong. 

Dinner was at Jock & Java in Nelspruit.

On Sunday morning we met at the Barberton Museum and strolled around.  We had a guided tour of Belhaven House, a beautiful Victorian home which has been preserved and restored.

After lunch we went home and relaxed.

We left at 09h30 on Monday morning and headed home.

We had a great time with Rita and Michael and I'm sure it won't take another 20 years to visit this part of our country again!!

Sister's Dinner

We had our monthly "Sister's Dinner" at George's Bistro last night.  We had a lovely, relaxed dinner and my meal was delicious.   I chose Kingklip Thermidor as we don't eat too much fish at home.

My sisters each gave stunning gifts! Lynn gave us a beautiful bracelet (see on Wendy's arm) and my favourite toffees, Norma a stunning tin of biscuits and Wends a magazine and heavenly chocolate.  I will have to make up at the next dinner as I was the only one who never gave any gifts...

This was written for me...

Dear Persistent Girl,

There really is something you were born to do. Just you. There is a plan for your life, there is a mission you were created to accomplish, and there is a life that is meant JUST for you.

You were not born randomly. You were not an accident, and you are not a number. Keep holding on. Stay with it.

There is so much learning that takes place, so much training, so much boot camp that is so necessary before it all unfolds. Have patience and keep listening to your heart. You were born for something great and unforgettable. You were born to do things that would never ever be done if you did not do them.

Keep going, keep going, keep going.

You are so loved.xoxo
~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-

THE BRAVE GIRLS CLUB
life-changing fun for women
http://www.bravegirlsclub.com

Babies are a blessing sent from heaven!

Marisa and her family welcomed Carlo, the new addition to their family. Isn't he too cute?

The proud Aunt with her nephew!

With his new 'nephew'- I think Dean is going to be a good Dad someday!

I wish I knew what he was thinking when this picture was taken.

A Flower...

Family Day

We had lunch at our house with our children for Family Day. We had a wonderful afternoon and enjoyed every minute!

'Taking It Easy' with The Eagles...

The Eagles were in Johannesburg on Sunday 8 April and we were fortunate enough to attend the concert.  I was really excited as it was at Soccer City and I had never been there before.

The music was good and everyone enjoyed this once in a lifetime event.

21 today!!!

Martin turned 21 today and we were invited to join his family and friends for his birthday celebration.  The theme -  "M" inspired, any character from the movies. The party was held at Douro - a new Portuguese Restaurant in our area.

Gordon and I dressed as the Mafia, Dean and Marisa were Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Martin was Mr. Bean.  Other characters included Marley & Me, Miss Congeniality, The Mad Hatter, Mary Poppins, Mr. T and many more.

We had an absolutely wonderful evening.  Good friends! Good food! Good music!

Helen and Albe have raised a fine young man and are extremely proud of him.

The birthday boy.

Our wish for Martin is that he enjoys being "all grown-up" now and that his life is filled with love and blessings.

The Holy Week

May you experience his love and let the resurrection’s joy lift us from loneliness, weakness and despair to strength, beauty and happiness.  While understanding the demonstration of God, that life is essentially spiritual and timeless.

May He bless you abundantly above measure.