Sunday, February 8, 2009

The End


You may be wondering why I would close out this blog of our South African experience with a picture of our clothesline. It's because it reminds me of our life there ... the warm climate, the gentle breezes, the almost ever-present sunshine ... and the slightly slower pace of life. Although it was sometimes inconvenient, I grew to love hanging our clothes on the line -- especially when I knew Sindi would be there to iron them!

When people ask me what I miss most about South Africa, I give a cop out answer and say "the lifestyle". That of course includes our lovely home and our household help (especially Sindi), our dear friends, the boy's fantastic school, and simply living and traveling in such a uniquely beautiful and diverse country.

We are so thankful to have had this opportunity, and I think we all feel that we have left a piece of ourselves there forever!

Poor James!


Poor James fractured his wrist while playing on the play ground at Camps Bay. Fortunately it was just a green stick fracture which healed quickly. Ahhh ... guess it's time to come home!

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens





This is another beautiful spot to spend a few hours. Andrew is giving that guinea fowl also known as "fat chicken" a run for his money!

Boulders Beach






This is another one of our all time favorite places. Boulders Beach is a short drive from Cape Town ... and well ... I think the photos speak for the beauty of it. White sand, blue water, big white boulders, blue sky ... and to top it off ... real live penguins! It was a lovely spot for a picnic and swim. The beaver-like animal is called a Dassie. They like to hang out in rocky, mountainous areas close to the sea.

Table Mountain






We spent one morning at Table Mountain. Fortunately the cloud cover wasn't too bad, so the views from the top were spectacular. The cable car ride to the top was a big thrill for all -- especially James and Andrew.

Holiday in Cape Town -- Camps Bay




On our way back to the States, we stopped off for a few days in Cape Town ... for one more look at this stunning city and surrounds. These photos are from Camps Bay -- our favorite beach area.

Last Day in Durbs





On our last day in Durban, we were able to hear James' class at Crawford perform a special end of the year concert. And we said our final goodbyes to some dear friends ... like James and Andrew's special friend from school, S'bu.