Late-night plumbing

Just before going to bed after watching a late-night movie, I discovered a burst pipe in the garden. After some urgent phone calls I managed to find a willing emergency plumber and the problem was soon fixed. In situations like these one realizes that not everyone is on leave during these times.

Jeroboam of Champagne

A three liter bottle of wine is called a Jeroboam. Me and my brother were confronted with a High Constantia Clos Andre 2008 Jeroboam. With the help of family, we almost managed to finish the bottle this afternoon.

Adlem's at Meerenbosch

Dawie and Liza Adlem visited us at Meerenbosch. We cooked "flat" chickens in the Weber and talked cricket, triathlons and life in general. It was good to see friends that we have known for years again.

Nonnatjie ill

I took a lethargic and feverish Nonnatjie to the vet. After the vet tested her blood the verdict was rickettsia. The good news is that the infection was not too bad and that it could still be treated effectively. One could say that we took her to the vet in the tick of time.

Meerenbosch Xmas

What a blessing to have our children and grand-children at MeerenBosch to celebrate the most well-known Christian day. As Spiderman and a young ballerina posed in front of the Christmas tree, I experienced tremendous joy that I would want to share with all my friends, colleagues and partners all over the world.

The wild horses of Sandown bay

The wild horses of Sandown bay have been roaming the coastal region between Kleinmond and Hawston for a hundred years. Domesticated animals that escaped into the wild, they adapted to the marshland and sandy underfoot and were rarely seen by humans. We were therefor pleasantly surprised when we saw a small group in front of the house during the afternoon.

Fishershaven cycle

I took the mountain bike for a lazy spin on a sleepy Sunday morning to the look-out point in Fishershaven. There was almost no movement in the little village with three "wild" horses strolling in the deserted streets. Even the solitary bench at the look-out point, overlooking the most beautiful scenery looked lost.

Braai at MeerenBosch

A perfect evening and friends. A fire and enough meat to feed an army. Great wines and laughter.., I don't think it is possible to improve on that. We were blessed with an outstanding evening at MeerenBosch with Nico and Doreen, Abrie and Susan and my children.

Hofmeyr Sandbaai

Steve Hofmeyr is a well-known South African singer with major hits spanning a 25 year career. We enjoyed his show with friends in a packed Sandbaai hall. Old hits, clever quips and some serious moments contributed to a very professional performance.

Chameleon

Me and Annelie discovered a delicate chameleon in a tree today. It was fascinating to watch the little creature maneuver from one twig to another. It made one realize that there are many, many intricate things happening that we are not even close aware of.

Afternoon sleep

I know that I am starting to relax when I am able to sleep in the afternoon. This sunday I slept for four hours after lunch and woke refreshed ready to have a late night.

Clarensdrive

If the weather is good, there is nothing like a cycle to Rooiels and back. I joined about ten Wannabees for a wonderful ride along False bay's coast. Not even a flat tyre could stifle the fun.

Mas Nicolas

Xmas came early this year when a rare bottle of Mas Nicolas were delivered to the office. Thanks to Gavin, after unwrapping the bottle, I held a 2007 in my hands. Made by Nico van der Merwe, this wine is seen as one of the best blends produced here and 2007 was one of the best years.

Vintage 2013

Did the last racking and got the 2013 vintage into the bottles where they can rest until I am confident enough to open them again... maybe never.

Sam's birthday

We celebrated Sam's birthday at their home. The stunning setting, good friends, great food and wine contributed to a special evening. We are blessed with exceptional friends and it is good to reminded from time to time.

Brother and sister

While we sat on the stoep after supper, our grandchildren played outside in the last minutes of sunshine - brother and sister. We just love having them here at home and we think they like it too.

33rd year Anniversary

Thirty three years ago, me and Annelie committed ourselves to a lifetime together. Today we celebrated many years of blessings, recognizing that all the good that we experienced was infinite grace from God. The environment and the food at the Delaire Graff restaurant was exquisite and spending the night at Clouds Luxury Estate was also very special. I am so thankful for Annelie and what she means to me.

Ernst new offices

The company where Ernst (my oldest son) works moved into new offices and I was privileged to attend the opening event. After he took me on a tour of the premises. I understand why he is proud to be associated with this company.

Basie in the sun

For a dog it is difficult to find a comfortable spot and soak up the sun at the same time. I thought that Basie tried to do this well this morning; except he may end up with a sore neck.

Unspoilt MeerenBosch

The unspoiled beauty of the Botriver lagoon as it rushes into the ocean at this time of the year, never ceases to charm me. Our footprints were the first on virgin sand today. Sea-birds played in the morning wind and big waves stormed onto the beach persistently. How big is the creation and how small are we?

Annelie's hand

The cast came off Annelie's wrist last Friday and after examination of the most recent X-rays; the verdict was that the outcome of the operation was not what we anticipated. We are taking time to rationalize the implications and to decide on the next steps. Not everything in life will be good news, but then, there is much growth in tribulations.