The Travellingmind

Liewe Tannie Elsa

Liewe Tannie Elsa

2024 gaan altyd die jaar wees wat ek onthou, en waar ek geleer het wat regte ‘grief’ is.

Somtyds slaan dit nog my asem weg-soos vandag.

Ons het dié lekkerste kuier gehad op ‘n Sondagmiddag met die hele familie en minder as ‘n week later is tannie weggeruk. Netso. Sonder waarskuwing. Hoe hanteer mens dit? Wanneer gaan die vrae ophou en wanneer kom die aanvaarding. Wanneer gaan die oomblikke verby gaan waar ek na my asem snak, en dit weer soos ‘n skokgolf oor my kom?

Ek kan hier aangaan en 100e vergelykings nog neerskryf oor die erge mis en hartseer wat ek in my hart het, maar nee, dit is nie wat ek gaan doen nie. Ek gaan eerder tannie celebrate vir die merkwaardige mense wat tannie was en altyd sal bly.

Ek het tannie eers ontmoet in 1985. Ek kan nie dit onthou nie, maar my ma-hulle kan. Van daar af was tannie my ander mamma.

Ek onthou as kleinkind het ons Desembers in George bymekaargekom om Kersfees by ouma Emma se huis te vier. Die opgewondenheid om julle te sien was tasbaar. Daar was altyd soveel lag en drukkies. Dit was altyd sleg as ons weer moes ry, want dan moet ons vir eers totsiens sê tot julle weer in die Kaap kom kuier (Graaf Reinette is ‘n entjie van ons af).

Maar toe verhuis julle na Touwsrivier – ‘n bietjie nader. Oe en al die naweke wat ons in die kar gespring het en op Touwsrivier kom kuier het in die koshuis. Ons het een keer op die wipplank gespeel by die koshuis en ek weet tot vandag toe nie hoe nie, maar ons het ons bene rou geskaaf en tannie se oplossing was epson sout of koeksoda – ek kan nie lekker onthou nie – in die bad. Dit was seer maar dit het gehelp – hoekom dan nou nie. Tannie Elsa weet mos van.

Ouma Emma is oorlede (toe ek in standerd 4 was) en ek onthou hoe tannie Elsa vir my en Basti styf vas gedruk het en gesê het “toemaar julle, dit is okay”.

1997. Dis die jaar wat julle Brackenfell toe getrek het. Ons, dit is nou ek en Hentia, kon nie ons opgewondeheid in toom hou nie! Nou is julle hier en ons gaan julle soveer meer sien!

Saterdae het ek my ma gesmeek om na ons dorp toe was om by Tannie Elsa te stop en te gaan tee drink. Hoeveel keer het ek gebel en vir Basti gesê “sê jou ma-hulle moet kom tee drink”, want tannie Elsa sal my nou beter laat voel.

Ek onthou Saterdae wat tannie en Rentia koek gebak het en daai poffertjies! Moet nie die poffertjies vergeet nie! Ek het ‘n hele bak gekry sonder room sodat my ma spesiaal suikervrye weergawes vir my kon maak. En die sponskoek! My goeiste! En moet nie vergeet van tannie se yoghurt yskastert nie! Die reseppie is veilig in my resepteboek ingeplak.

Tannie was by elk van my verjaarsdae wat by my ma se huis gehou is. Ek het ook elke jaar ‘n sms of later dan ‘n WhatsApp gekry met ‘n gelukwensing.

Ek onthou ook ‘n aand wat ons almal uitgery het om vuurwerke te gaan kyk het van die berg af. Die musiek moes ons oor die radio luister. Dit was mooi!

In 2015 het my huwelik tot ‘n einde gekom. Ek is sak en pak terug huistoe. Die skok was groot en die hart baie seer. Nie lank na ek terug gekom het nie stap die Klue’s by ons deur in en tannie Elsa gee my ‘n bossie blomme. Net daar loop die trane van soveel dankbaarheid en liefde. Daai drukkie en blomme sal ek nie vergeet nie.

Rentia reël middagetes en kuiers en almal moet voorstel wat op die tafel moet wees. My enigste request was ALTYD, tannie Elsa se Trifle. Altyd! Ons het verlede jaar die Kersete gemis en ek was baie teleurgesteld. Ek het my ma gevra dat hulle asseblief tog vir my ‘n skeppie van die trifle uitskep en hou. Toe ons by my ma-hulle kom het Tannie Elsa nie wat gedoen nie, ‘n vars triffle in ‘n klein roomys bakkie vir my gemaak want “dit gaan waterig raak as dit staan”. Ek het geraas en gesê dat dit was nie nodig nie en tannie het net geskryf “dis ‘n groot plesier. Geniet dit”. Tannie, ek het baie groot en vinnige happe gevat!

My ma het onlangs kaste reg gepak en op ‘n boekkie af gekom wat tannie-hulle vir Kersfees in 1992 vir my gegee het. Die begin van my liefde vir lees. Dit sal ek altyd koester en sal ‘n spesiale plekkie in my boekrak hê.

Tannie Elsa.

Ek sal tannie se lag onthou.

Ek sal onthou hoe tannie altyd met die hande gepraat het.

Ek sal altyd die lekker drukkies onthou.

Ek sal altyd onthou hoe vurig tannie altyd oor die skoolkinders gepraat het.

Ek sal onthou die stories van die juffrou wat tannie vir die skoolkinders was.

Ek sal altyd tannie se liefde vir sing (en die koor) onthou.

Ek sal altyd onthou hoe lief tannie vir tannie se familie was.

Ek sal altyd onthou tannie se liefde vir RSG en die radio wat altyd gespeel het in die kombuis.

Ek sal onthou hoe tannie somtyds gesit en net almal dop gehou het.

Ek sal onthou hoe lief tannie vir die kleinkinders is.

Ek sal altyd die warm middagetes onthou wat na skool vir my gewag het in Rose Straat.

Ek sal altyd die na-kerk tee en koek en tee in Rose Straat onthou.

Ek sal altyd onthou die pizza aande by my ma-hulle se huis.

Ek sal altyd die kuiers op Towsrivier in die koshuis onthou.

Dankie vir die mooi mens met die sagte hart wat tannie vir ons was Ek is baie lief vir tannie en verlang regtig vreeslik baie.

Al my liefde, Elré

Tannie Elsa,

Hulle sé engele is orals rondom ons, maar tannie was n ware Engel. Niemand het so baie liefde en geduld om te gee soos tannie nie.

Tannie het op die koue winters oggende vir ons in Touwsrivier Tastywheat gemaak, tot vandag toe is dit een van my gunsteling; en as dit warm was, pienk Nesquik. Twee goed wat my nog altyd en verewig aan tannie sal laat dink.

Tannie het soveel lewens geraak maar tannie was my enigste tannie wat saak gemaak het en bestaan het vir my.

Toe my ouers met COVID in die hospitaal was het ek die Vrydagaand verby Anina se huis gery en gesien julle is almal daar. Ek het net ingetrek en gestop. Min wetend hoe moeg en alleen ek gevoel het. Ek wou braaf wees want ek was die enigste een wat kon help omdat ek reeds die virus gehad het en nie weer so gou kon kry nie. Ek het ingekom met die hoop van blydskap maar een kyk na tannie en tannie het geweet. Die trane, seer en moeg het net uit gespoel toe tannie my vashou en nie laat gaan nie. Tannie het geweet sonder om te vra dat als nog dieselfde is maar tannie het geweet dit is my hart wat net nie meer kon nie. Tannie en Rentia het my vasgehou tot al die trane klaar was en eers toe die rustigheid oor my spoel wetend ek is by my familie, het julle my laat gaan. Dit was n oomblik wat ek so naby aan my hart koester want ek het geweet, wat okal gebeur, ek het my tannie en my familie.

Toe kon ek vir almal hallo sé. Tannie was altyd daar, vir almal, en die familie. Niks is ooit te veel gevra as vrou, ma, suster, ouma en tannie nie.

Ek kan oneindig skryf oor tannie want tannie het soveel goed in hierdie wereld gebring. Soveel lewens geraak en altyd als aangepak met die grootste liefde en ondersteuning.

Ons het die week voor dit n familie ete gehou. Rentia het geweet ek gaan deur n moeilike tyd en net besluit ons hou familie ete die Sondag en klaar. Dit was die beste familie ete, tannie het nie al die antwoorde gehad nie en ook nie gevra nie, maar my weereens verwelkom met die omhelsing en drukkie wat alle seer kon laat verdwyn.

Ek mis tannie so baie en elke keer word tannie se teenwoordigheid gemis. Ek hoor tannie se lag en stem nog altyd.

Dankie vir die absolute engel-mens wat tannie was, en dankie dat tannie ons agterlaat het met my niggies, nefie en klein kinders wat almal tannie se liefde dra en elkeen hul eie unieke stukkie liefde van tannie deurskyn.

Tannie was te vroeg geneem, maar meer tyd sou nie kon opmaak vir die leemte wat tannie los nie.

Ons is dankbaar om te weet tannie is by ons Hemelse Vader en ek weet tannie se engel stem sing net van liefde en n klank wat ek nie kan wag om eendag weer te hoor nie. Tot ons mekaar weer sien,

Al my liefde, Hentia

The Book of Two Ways

Synopsis

Everything changes in a single moment for Dawn Edelstein. She’s on a plane when the flight attendant makes an announcement: prepare for a crash landing. She braces herself as thoughts flash through her mind. The shocking thing is, the thoughts are not of her husband, but a man she last saw fifteen years ago: Wyatt Armstrong.

Dawn, miraculously, survives the crash, but so do all the doubts that have suddenly been raised. She has led a good life. Back in Boston, there is her husband, Brian, her beloved daughter, and her work as a death doula, where she helps ease the transition between life and death for her clients .

But somewhere in Egypt is Wyatt Armstrong, who works as an archaeologist unearthing ancient burial sites, a job she once studied for, but was forced to abandon when life suddenly intervened. And now, when it seems that fate is offering her second chances, she is not as sure of the choice she once made.

Source: www.jodipicoult.com

The Book of Two Ways: https://historicaleve.com/book-of-the-two-ways-ancient-egypt/#google_vignette

My Thoughts

Did it take me time to get into the book-Yes.
Did I thought at times this book was not for me-Yes. Why? Egypt – I have no interest.
Did I realise that all the detail is necessary as with all Jodi’s books-Yes.
Am I still confused with the timelines-Yes.
Did I have heart palpitations and stopped breathing-yes. I absolutely did to a point where I almost did not want to know what happened.
Am I mad that it ended on a cliff hanger-YES! I need to know.
Do I think this was a good book-YES.
Would I recommend it-YES.

I was warned it would take time to get into it, and it did, but I was also told in the same breath that it is a good book. I can wholeheartedly agree; it is a very good book.

I loved Wyatt, Meret, and Win. Dawn is debatable, but I can relate to her in some ways.

I still want to know what happened! I guess I can imagine what happened, but I need confirmation. You know what I mean?

This will also be my first annotated book. Even if it only has 4 notes, it is still 4 notes, and I like it!

I wrote the review before I read the author’s note. I should have waited until after. But after reading the author’s note, The Book of Two Ways and the timelines made so much more sense.

This is really a good book.

I highlighted 4 quotes / phrases / dialogue.

Life asked death, “Why do people love me but hate you?”
Death responded, “Beacause you are a beautiful lie and I am a painful truth.”
– Unknown

What a profound phrase. I stopped reading and just thought about this for a moment. What does it mean for me? I just realised the absolute truth in this. And we do not always want to deal with the truth. True?

All it takes is a brush of a match in the right environment to start an inferno. That is what I think when I taste him, and I am whisked backward through time, to another twin mattress and another stolen moment and the same arms around me.

This scene is so important for the rest of the story that follows. When I read this first sentence, I understood it. Whether it be memories, love, or life, all it takes is one thing—a match, for example—to start something.

Another topic in this book that I really resonated with is body image. I can resonate with this topic so much. Every time this is brought into a story, I immediately feel it and relate to the character even more. Dawn was concerned with how she looked to Wyatt after having Meret, and the way he reassured her was just so endearing.

“Dawn. If it will make you feel beter, I could show you my appendix scar, and where I think I’m going bald, and you could point out your stretch marks and wrinkles. But I’d much rather pay attention to all the bits of you that are glorius.”

Isn’t it just fabulous?

Like most teenagers, Meret also has a body image problem. Even though she is described as being a bigger-built girl and maybe a little bit pudgy, I do not think she is overweight as such. She has trouble with how people see her and sees herself as fat. With this conversation between her and Dawn, I wished someone would have sat me down and said this to me as an early teenager. I am not sure that I would have actually listened, but I am sure it would have stuck somewhere. I want to tell you what happens later in the book, but that would be a spoiler.

“There isn’t only one type of body. Anyone who makes you feel that way is only trying to make themselves feel better by finding someone to pick on. “

As I mentioned, this is the first book I have ever annotated, and I only started in the second part of the book. The beauty of reading is that everyone interprets the story in a different way. We each have our own phrases and quotes that we resonate with. I also want to bring in an element that I saw from a TikToker. She made the statement, ‘How did this book or that part/sentence/phrase/quote make you feel?’

This book made me feel a lot of emotions, but overall, it made me feel content. Obviously, it started up a ‘what if’ question, but it did not linger too long.

This is a solid 4 star for me. If you are not familiar with my rating system, you can check if out here.

On to the next read.

E xx

That time I fell on my face

In 2014, or on the 3rd of May 2014 to be exact, I fell on my face during The Parkrun. It wasn’t funny at the time, but afterwards, I could see it happening, and being me, I probably would have laughed first.

I like sharing this story because so many things happened on that particular morning. It’s a funny story; I set a new personal best, which would still remain a personal best today (I haven’t started running again – yet), and I realized that nobody cares except you.

This is a throwback post for a friend of mine. I hope you enjoy it.

I feel kind of silly, but you know when you have a weekly or monthly competitive event like trail running or a match of some sort, and you always see the same people, and you’ve clarified to yourself that you have to beat this one person (or even two in my case)? Well, we do a trail run every Saturday morning. They call it The Parkrun. It is held all throughout South Africa (originally started in the UK), and it’s a lot of fun and a real challenge for me.

Now, there are these two ladies who just get to me every Saturday morning. As soon as I spot them, I tell myself, ‘You HAVE to BEAT them.’ The sad part is, I don’t even know them, and I have a vendetta against them. We haven’t even spoken two words! I think I might have a problem… Anyway.

They have this way of passing me and then slowing down in front of me. This morning, one lady did it. She passed me, annoyed me, and started walking in front of me. So, I added some speed and propelled myself up the mini hill. I kicked her butt. Almost at the end, the other lady (I was following her for some pace) just wasn’t going fast enough, so I passed her as well. And THAT’S when it happened…

I felt my foot strike a stone, and as I saw the ground coming closer, I knew I was going to hit it. There was nothing I could do, and in that moment, I knew I was going to hit the ground. So, with a thump, I hit the ground (in slow motion) and let out a bit of a screech. I had just bought some land…

At once, everyone I just passed is next to me. They help me up, and the first thing out of my mouth is ‘I am done now, I’ve had enough.’ Then I see my ‘enemy,’ and that just fuels my anger. So I ran as fast as my legs allowed me to go, and I finished with a better time. This, after I had to tie my shoelaces TWICE, walked a bit (it is actually against my religion to walk in a race), and of course, bought some land.

I am very proud of myself, but my ego is a bit bruised. It’s not fun to fall down in front of so many people; it’s quite embarrassing. But, it’s all in a day’s work.

At least I have a great story to tell with a happy ending, and thinking about it now, I must have looked really funny when that happened. We received a 10% discount voucher, so I think I will reward myself with a nice cup of coffee for my hard work

I did some editing to fix grammar and spelling errors. Don’t judge me. I was young and I really wanted to be a world-famous blogger. My writing style has evolved a lot over the years. But here’s my 27-year-old self telling a funny story. Just look at me. So young and clueless! LOL!

Do you have a funny story?

Please share with me in the comments!

E xx

Camping Season! – Pet friendly sites

My husband and I love camping. Recently, our fur friend has also developed a love for camping after his first experience. The first time I took Foxy (my fur friend) camping, it was a delight. It was as if he had arrived in heaven and couldn’t believe the freedom and all the new friends. He behaved like a kid. We only saw him when he was hungry or thirsty, and the rest of the time, he was off somewhere living his best life.

Story time. When we arrived, I was a nervous wreck. It was his first time camping, and I didn’t let him off the leash anywhere because he has this tendency to take off running without looking back. I followed him around like a hawk. At one point, I lost sight of him for a bit, and the last I saw, he ran through another camper’s area. When I found him, he had mistaken the green slush on the water for grass and ran onto the grass, falling into the water. Oh my word, he stunk for the whole weekend. He smelled like those lizards you find in dirty water. However, he became more cautious, and I was a bit more relaxed as he did not wander far from us for the rest of the weekend. The second time we took him camping, it went much better.

I wanted to create a quick reference list of camping sites (both visited and on our list to visit) where our fur friend is welcome. This would be handy in case someone asks, ‘Do you know of a pet-friendly camping site?’.

I also asked our friends, who have 2 fur friends, about the places they have visited and for some feedback and suggestions.

Some camping sites mentioned in our recommendations have been visited either by ourselves or our friends. These will be clearly marked to distinguish personal experiences from general suggestions. However, it’s important to note that personal experiences may not reflect the current conditions or amenities at these sites.

Please take note of the following disclaimer:

You need to arrange with every location beforehand. Do not just arrive and assume. Even though it says pet-friendly, almost all camping grounds request that you make prior arrangements. You do not want to arrive and then be turned away.

The links provided on this platform are intended for informational purposes only. We want to emphasize that these links are not affiliated with us, and we do not receive any form of payment or compensation for featuring them.

We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided on external websites. Users are encouraged to use their own judgment and discretion when exploring these links.

It’s crucial to understand that the absence of affiliation or compensation does not constitute an endorsement of the content or services provided on the linked websites. Users are advised to conduct their own research and, if needed, seek professional advice before making any decisions based on the information provided on external sites.

By accessing and utilizing the links on this platform, users acknowledge and agree to do so at their own risk. We shall not be held liable for any damages or losses incurred as a result of using the information or services available on external sites.

With the legalities out of the way, let’s move on to the good stuff.

Van Puttens Vlei Camp: - Pets are welcome with prior arrangements.

Location: R364, Clan Williams Road, Lambert’s Bay

Rivierplaas: - PET POLICY: Only friendly pets that get on well with other animals and people, especially children, are allowed. Loud and annoying pets will not be allowed. Clean up after your own pet!! Easy access to walks. Please consider other campers and their pets, and always remember that Rivierplaas is a working farm with farm animals and dogs roaming. Consideration must also be given to resident dogs, farm animals & wildlife.

Location: Rivierplaas, Scherpenheuwel, Worcester, 6849

Feedback/Experience: This is a lovely camp site. This was where my fur friend had his first camp experience. They have the whole area to free roam. It would be good if your dog has a call command to return to camp if needed. The sites are not fenced and it is working farm as well. It is on the bank of the Breede River. There are short walking trails and a play park for the children. We will definitely return soon. Remember to pack your mosquito repellent.

River Goose - Pets allowed by arrangement only.

Location: Farm Eureka, Gelukshoop Road, Bonnievale, 6730

Feedback/Experience: We had a very nice weekend at Rivergoose. You have different camp sites ie. open and sheltered with nice shade. Fishing is a bit of a mission. You need to be at the banks early morning. They have kayaks you can use on the river and the dogs have a lot of space to roam. The camp sites are not fenced – a good idea to have dogs trained when visiting. Make sure you have warm blankets, we visited in April and it got very cold at night.

Beaverlac - 1 Rule: Keep your dog(s) under control and ensure that your dog(s) do not pose a threat or become a nuisance to other campers. This includes barking. Dogs on heat are not allowed at Beaverlac. Dogs are not allowed to swim in the rock pools.

Location: Porterville

Feedback/Experience: We have not been with our fur friend yet, but I have been before with my parents. This is a very nice camping site for a quick getaway.

Wolvenberg & Stille Waters

Location: TCB Wines, Goudyn Farm, Goudyn Road, Rawsonville

Experience/Feedback: The campsite are huge so there is loads of space for the furry ones to run and play. It is important to note though, that the sites are not fenced but hopefully your dogs are friendly and you have a recall command. There is also a jeep-track you can follow to hike into the kloof with seasonal water streams your dogs can enjoy – if they are into that kind of thing.- Louis S.

Moreson

Location: Moreson Farm, Slanghoek Road, Slanghoek Valley

Experience/Feedback: Morning sun is nice. It is a working farm with probably about 20 camp sites all along the river. All along the river but not necessarily easy access to the river. Also 2 Chalets. Each pitch has its own bathroom. Quite windy at times, but they have shelter nets in strategic places. Lots of shade under trees. Nice short walking route on a path through a forest. – Louis S.

Rivierzicht - Dogs: Basjan, Diesel and Difflock are our dogs and walk freely on the premises. Pets are allowed, with prior arrangement.

Location: R60 Rivierzicht Farm, Riverside Road, Robertson, 6705

Experience/Feedback: You can read about my experience here

Doringlaagte - Only dogs allowed on our pet friendly plots! You may walk them outside the camping area.

Location: Derde Heuwel, Montagu, Winelands, 6720

Experience/Feedback: Another favourite and we would like to go back soon with our fur friend. The sites are not fenced and as mentioned, fur friends only on the designated camping sites. There are loads to do with children and some of the sites have their own Jacuzzis. A few walking trails to explore offers something for everyone. This is a very popular destination so book early if you want to visit.

Kleine Paradys - Dogs (or any animals) are only allowed on the 3 pet-friendly sites Rivierpark 1A,1B,2.

Location: R399 Road, 15 km West of, Piketberg

Experience/Feedback: Friends of ours visit annually and this is definitely on our list to go.

Kuifkopvisvanger

Location: Swartjiesbaai Velddrif, West Coast, South Africa

Knorvarkie - Pet friendly for trained animals by prior arrangement.

Location: R234 Hopefield Road, Velddrif, 7365

Mooiuitsig Holiday Accomodation - Pets With Arrangements

Location: Jongensfontein, Still Bay, WESTERN CAPE CAMPING

De Drinken - Pets With Arrangements

Location: Drie Heuwels Farm, Moorreesburg

Karoo Bush Camp - We are pet friendly!!

Location: Vanwyksvlei, Klein karoo, Bree Rivier

Nona Rosa Wegbreek - Pet Friendly. Rustic – no electricity/no signal.

Location: Heidelberg, WESTERN CAPE CAMPING, Witsand, Heidelberg 20km, Witsand 20km

River Edge Accomodation - Pet friendly.

Location: WESTERN CAPE CAMPING, Worcester

Rivers End Farm - Contact us for our PET FRIENDLY information

Location: Rivers End Farm Stanford, Wortelgat Road, Stanford, South Africa

Silwerstrand Caravan Park

DOG friendly.

Location: Robertson, WESTERN CAPE CAMPING

Montagu Caravan Park - Dogs allowed by prior arrangment

Location: Montagu, WESTERN CAPE CAMPING

Buffelsrivier Camping - ‘We are pet friendly!’

Location: Buffelsrivier Camping, Opzoek Farm,Moordenaars Karoo, Laingsburg, South Africa, 6900

Op die Plaas Camp - Pet Friendly Getaways – You are welcome to bring your dogs to Op-die-Plaas KAMP/Stone Cottage/Bergzicht Cottage, which is remote from the main farm, and share your holiday with your family’s best friends. They’ll enjoy the wide spaces, swimming in the dams and the wider farm.

Location: R323 Sandrivier Farm Seweweekspoort, Laingsburg, 6900

Citrus Creek – Dogs allowed by prior arrangment

Location: Western Cape, Olifants River, Citrusdal

Kleine Windpompie - Certain sites pet friendly. Pets only at the camping grounds, not in the lodge.

Location: Swellendam

Have you been to any of these sites? Please let us know in the comments!

E xx

2024 Reading Challenge

It is a new year, so it is time for a new challenge, and I am excited!

Last year was kind of a failure in terms of reducing my TBR (to be read) to half, as I ended up with more books instead of fewer. You can read about that experience here.

I also wrapped all the books on my TBR with newspaper and had my husband pick most of them, and even my bird picked one as well. This year, I will be doing things a bit differently.

I unwrapped all my books and realised once again that I have some very, very good ones just waiting to be dived into. I created 18 numbers and added them to a bowl. I will be having friends and family (and sometimes myself) pick a number from the bowl.

I think I am a little more excited this year, as now I can see my beautiful treasures unwrapped on my shelf. It makes me so excited to live another 1000 lives!

I am already busy with read #1 for the year. My goal for this year is 18. Follow along on my journey on Goodreads and Instagram!

Do you have a reading challenge this year? Share your thoughts and comments below!

E xx

Reading Challenge Wrap Up 2023

You have heard of girl math and boy math and other differnt kinds of math. But have you heard of book math? I am sure you have.

Here is my book math.

My Reading Challenge for 2023 started with 30 books, and I wanted to read 15 to bring down my TBR (to be read) to 15 books.

I have mentioned before that buying books and reading books are two different hobbies. You have book dragons (hoarding of books) and book worms (readers of books). When you combine the two, you have me.

I managed to read 21 books this year and still have 18 left from my TBR (to be read) which started on 30. Amazing!

Haha! We can just laugh at my math.

I have tried new authors and different genres. I was surprised by some and also very disappointed with some. I am one of those people who will give a 1-star rating. This is not to be mean, but if you want the reasoning behind my rating system, please click here.

Here is a list of the books I read this year, and if you want a quick run-through, I have a reel on Instagram here.

The 1 star

The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho

The 2 star

The Sun Is Also a Star – Nicola Yoon

The 3 star

The Gilded Cage Camilla Läckberg (Neil Smith (translator))
Caraval – Stephanie Garber
Magpie – Elizabeth Day
How to Stop Time – Matt Haig
Release – Patrick Ness
Deurweef met Genade – Francine Rivers

The 4 star

Leandie du Randt: My Hacks vir die Lewe
The Last Thing He Told Me – Laura Dave
Book Lovers – Emily Henry
The Tattooist of Auschwitz – Heather Morris (YA edition)
Can You Keep A Secret? – Sophie Kinsella
The Housemaid – Freida McFadden

The 5 star

Rachel’s Holiday – Marian Keyes
Cilka’s Journey – Heather Morris
Three Sisters – Heather Morris
Under the Whispering Door – T.J. Klune
We Were Liars – E. Lockhart
The Horse Whisperer – Nicholas Evans
The Nightingale – Kristin Hannah

A new challenge will be set in 2024 and I look forward to it.

If you could recommend only 1 book that I must read in 2024, which book would you recommend? Leave your comments below.

E xx

The Dress with the Coffee Stain

“But yeah, you need a special talent to make a mess on something that you are not even wearing”. This is what my friend told me after I told her the story of The Dress with the Coffee Stain.

Let me tell you about my hidden talent.

It was an overcast morning and I had a voucher burning a hole in my pocket.

I received a Woolworths voucher from my friend as a birthday gift. I said that I would not buy anything that is already in my cupboard because nowadays I am just buying the same item in different colours. Albeit, if it is comfy, then why not?.

I went off to visit the new Woolworths Edit shop in our recently opened mall in Malmesbury..

Etienne and I saw this dress the previous day, and I told him I liked it a lot. It was a bit late already, so I went back the next day to try it on and buy it. I was so happy with how it looked and excited. After my purchase, I decided to treat myself to an iced coffee.

Side note – iced coffee is my latest favourite. I used to despise cold coffee, and for as long as I can remember, I refused to drink iced coffee because it reminded me of all the lukewarm and cold cups of coffee I had to consume in a very busy work environment years ago. However, I tried it one very hot day in November, and man, was I surprised. I love a cold brew coffee. It is just delicious! Anyway.

I ordered my coffee from the new Vida E Café in the mall and proceeded to the condiments counter. I placed my bag with my new dress next to me on the floor and added a sweetener to my coffee. I stirred it, and when I lifted the stick from the cup, it spilled. For a moment, I almost passed out because I thought I made a mess on my crisp white T-shirt or the shoes that I am wearing, but I cannot find the coffee drop.

I got this feeling inside that the drop might have travelled to the bag with my new dress in it.

As I look down, I still do not see the spilled coffee, but as I draw the bag closer to my face, I see it. Nice, fresh, and soaking into the new material of my brand-new dress. I thought to myself, there is no way that this happened. This is just impossible. I tell the lady from the coffee shop what I did, and she gasps. She tells me to get home fast and place it in Omo (washing powder) water. Let it soak. Do not rub it and then wash it. If the stain is not lifted, then only rub it because you do not want to damage the fabric. She mentioned, ‘No, someone is jealous of the new dress, and that is why the coffee landed on the dress.’ We had a laugh, and I left.

I went to Clicks and bought the old trusted Vanish. When I got home, I showed Etienne the stain, and he then mentioned there was another one. So, not just one but two stains! I just laughed. I soaked the dress (without rubbing it) and then washed it on the wool cycle, as that is the gentlest setting on my washing machine.

I am happy to report that the dress is free of coffee stains and intact. No damage done. Phew!

858-03044842 © Aflo Sport / Masterfile Model Release: Yes Property Release: No Sports

I just could not get mad because this was just too bizarre to get upset about. I sent my friend a message to thank her for my new dress (she gave me the voucher) and then told her I spilled coffee on it without even wearing it. I told some more friends, and we just laughed because how insane is this. I am more chuffed that I did not get upset about it, and I learned something that day. I stayed calm and embraced the happiness I had in my heart. In the end, all turned out well, and I have a funny story to share.

Has anything like this happened to you? Please share your story! I would love to hear it.

E xx

The Optometrist

I was in Grade 9, and we had a visit from a gospel outreach team at our school. As always, they extended an invitation and at the end, mentioned that if anyone had something they wanted to talk or pray about, we could meet one of the team members after.

I met up with one of the girls, and I just started crying. It came to a point where they didn’t exactly know what to do with me, as I couldn’t stop crying. It turns out I was very scared of going blind and that I would never be able to ride my scooter.

My ophthalmologist is almost more important to me than my endocrinologist…, almost. I visit him every year for my annual retinopathy screening.

Please note that screening can be done by either an ophthalmologist or an optometrist if they have been trained in diabetes, but a doctor must make the diagnosis.

Today, we have Optometrist Armand Rautenbach, who completed his B. Optometry at the University of the Free State (UFS) and practiced in South Africa before taking on an Educational and Medical Manager position at EGMA, in Dubai. Armand has a passion for working with and uplifting people. Today he will share his insights with us.

Who is Armand?

I’m your average 33-year-old with a passion for travel and all things geeky, from the latest gadgets to board games. At work, I’m the Educational and Medical Manager for an optical industry solutions provider and ophthalmic lens manufacturer in Dubai. In this role, I oversee technical and clinical training for optometrists across the Middle East. My mission is to enhance optometrists’ skills, ultimately improving customer service and satisfaction. I have gained valuable experience practicing in South Africa before taking on this role in Dubai. I see myself as a dedicated professional with a passion for working with and uplifting people.

How do you see your role as part of a Diabetes Care Team?

As someone responsible for training optometrists, I believe it is crucial to educate optometrists on the intersection of optometry and diabetes care, and by doing so I’m indirectly educating the public. By utilising my knowledge of diabetes-related eye complications and related optometric practices, my role can contribute to the overall effectiveness of a Diabetes Care Team. Ensuring that optometrists are well-versed in eye care in the context of diabetes ultimately enhances client education, outcomes and well-being.

Why is it important to include you in the Diabetes Care Team?

I believe my inclusion in the Diabetes Care Team could provide a valuable and often overlooked perspective. As an optometrist, we play a crucial role as frontline healthcare providers, often being the first to identify early retinal indicators of diabetes during routine eye examinations. By bringing attention to this, we can significantly reduce the risks associated with undiagnosed diabetes for many. This not only highlights the importance of regular eye check-ups but also emphasizes the broader impact optometrists can have on overall health outcomes. By raising awareness about the contribution of optometrists in early diabetes detection, we empower individuals to prioritize eye health as an essential component of their overall well-being.

Your Number 1 Tip for a Person Living with Diabetes?

In my experience, I cannot stress enough the importance of regular eye exams for individuals living with diabetes. By making these exams a priority, one can proactively manage any potential complications related to eye health in diabetes. Early detection through routine check-ups is a key factor in preserving vision and contributing to a better quality of life.

Where can we find you?

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn for further professional interactions and discussions. I value the opportunity to engage with others and share insights within the optometry and diabetes care communities.

Continue the diabetes care and advocacy conversation with ‘not ARTIFICIALLY Sweetened’, a FREE weekly CDE Academy podcast, providing unfiltered reflections on all thing’s diabetes. These podcasts, aimed at both people with diabetes and the health professionals that facilitate their care, offer a free weekly knowledge, attitudes, skills and insight update. Join specialist physician Dr Stan Landau, and diabetes specialist nurse, Michael Brown in building bridges of shared insights between all people touched by diabetes. Now available on Spotify with listeners in 29 countries! If you see value in this podcast, we would appreciate you sharing either of the two image-based adverts attached with any health professional, or person with diabetes you know. If you have any questions, suggestions, comments or contributions for future episodes, please email Stan and Michael @ Podcast@CDEDiabetes.co.za

E xx

The Podiatrist

Meet Alisha Lalbeharie. She is a registered podiatrist from KZN who completed her BTech Podiatry in 2019. In 2023, she received the Best Lower Limb Care Provider award at the African Excellence Awards. She is the Kwa-Zulu Natal Branch Chair for 2023-2025 for the Podiatry Association of South Africa. This year, she completed the CDE Academy Foundation Course in Diabetes Care for Health Professionals.

She is very passionate about her profession, and today she will share her insights and the importance of the podiatrist in the diabetes management team.

Who is Alisha?

Alisha Lalbeharie is an enthusiastic podiatrist, who loves helping people with their lower limb problems.

Alisha graduated from the University of Johannesburg in 2019 and opened her own private practice in 2020 in Ladysmith KZN. Since then, she has set up two further monthly practices in Northern KZN – Newcastle and Estcourt.

She manages and treats different types of lower limb problems, from your hips to your toenails.

Alisha has a special interest in Lower Limb Management in Diabetes but she also deals with a variety of other conditions associated with the lower limb such as ingrown toenails, and foot and ankle pain.

Alisha is also passionate about her social media platforms and enjoys educating people on podiatry and how podiatrists can help people with lower limb aches and pains. She is also a qualified Business Coach and is passionate about being a female entrepreneur. She believes in empowering other young entrepreneurs to push forward and achieve their dreams.

How do you see your role as part of a Diabetes Care Team?

My role as part of a Diabetes Care Team is deeply rooted in my passion for podiatry and helping individuals manage their lower limb health, especially in the context of diabetes.

My primary focus lies in addressing a spectrum of lower limb problems, ranging from common issues like ingrown toenails to more complex concerns associated with diabetes. I have a particular interest in Lower Limb Management in Diabetes, recognizing the unique challenges that individuals with diabetes face concerning their foot health.

Being part of a Diabetes Care Team means collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care. I conduct regular foot assessments for people with diabetes, aiming to catch potential issues early and implement preventive measures. By working alongside endocrinologists, dietitians, and primary care physicians, we create a unified approach to diabetes care.

Education is a key aspect of my role. I’m passionate about leveraging social media platforms to share insights on podiatry, foot care in diabetes, and overall lower limb health. I believe informed clients are empowered clients, and I strive to ensure that individuals managing diabetes understand the importance of regular check-ups and proper foot care practices.

In essence, my role goes beyond the clinic walls. It’s about making a meaningful impact on the lives of those managing diabetes, fostering awareness, and empowering individuals to take control of their lower limb health. Together with the Diabetes Care Team, we strive for comprehensive and compassionate care that extends beyond the immediate medical concerns to encompass the overall well-being of our clients.

Why is it important to include you in the Diabetes Care Team?

The inclusion of podiatrists in the Diabetes Care Team is paramount for a comprehensive approach to diabetes management. Specializing in foot health, podiatrists bring crucial skills to identify early signs of complications such as neuropathy and poor circulation, mitigating the risk of foot ulcers and infections that can lead to amputations. Their expertise in foot care is essential for addressing the specific challenges faced by individuals with diabetes, ensuring timely interventions and promoting preventative measures. Podiatrists collaborate seamlessly with other healthcare professionals in the Diabetes Care Team, contributing to a multidisciplinary approach that addresses the complexities of diabetes. Through client education, early detection, and specialized interventions, podiatrists play a pivotal role in improving the overall quality of life for individuals living with and self-managing diabetes, fostering mobility, and reducing the physical and emotional burdens associated with foot complications.

Your number 1 tip for a person living with Diabetes?

My top recommendation is to prioritize meticulous foot care as an integral part of your daily routine. Inspect your feet daily for any signs of cuts, blisters, or changes in skin colour and temperature. Diabetes, especially when not manage optimally, can affect nerve sensation and blood circulation in the feet, making them susceptible to complications. Ensure you wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes to prevent pressure points and potential injuries. Regular visits to a podiatrist for foot assessments and professional care are crucial in maintaining optimal foot health. By staying vigilant and proactive in caring for your feet, you significantly reduce the risk of diabetes-related foot problems and contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle. Always collaborate closely with your healthcare team, including your podiatrist, to create a personalized foot care plan tailored to your specific needs.

Where can we find you?

Ladysmith: 2 Residency Road, Suite 5, Ladysmith, KZN, 3370

Estcourt: Estcourt Medical Center 126/130 Connor Street, Estcourt, KZN, 3310

Newcastle: Hospital Office Park, Suite 2, Corner of Hospital and Jordan Streets, Newcastle 2940

My contact number:084 019 8529

Website: https://www.alishathepodiatrist.co.za/

My social media platforms: @alishathepodiatrist (Instagram | TikTok | Facebook and YouTube).

Podiatry is another profession that I did not realize needs to be part of my team. We are so focused on only seeing the medical specialist when something is already wrong, instead of visiting once a year to do a screening to prevent complications.

I had a conversation with a podiatrist at the CDE Forum in October, and she almost fell on her back when she heard I have never seen a podiatrist. Her simple advice was ‘Go see your podiatrist.’ The urgency also arises due to three of my toes having a ‘funny feeling.’ Prevention is key!

Thank you, Alisha, for your passion and valuable insights!

E xx

The consultant physician and medical education specialist

I have had the privilege of working with Dr Stan Landau at the CDE Academy of Teaching and Learning. I have learned so much from him in the past few months, and I am extremely grateful to be able to call him a colleague. He joined the CDE in 2003 and has been a valuable part of the team ever since.

Today, he shares his insights regarding his role in the diabetes management team as a consultant physician and medical education specialist.

Who is Dr Stan? How do you see yourself and your role in the diabetes management team

I am a senior specialist at the medical practice located within the national CDE office in Johannesburg. My late colleague and partner, Larry Distiller, invited me to join his large diabetes practice in 2003. I have been here ever since and confine my day-to-day clinical work to diabetes medicine alone.

Initially I was a peripheral member of a large inter-professional healthcare team. As time passed, I earned my stripes by working closely within, and amongst the much more experienced diabetes nurse specialists. The learning was thick and fast and deeply rooted in what was meaningful to the person with diabetes. Practical diabetes management in action!

Over time I found myself becoming a teacher in my own right and I was able to add to the learnings of the newcomers as they joined the growing practice. Here was where my passion for life-long learning was ignited. My subsequent role as an education facilitator and supervisor has matured and become more formalized, specifically after completing postgraduate training in medical education.

Much of my time is now spent with the education team in the CDE Academy. Thus, I now wear two hats- one directly client facing and the other in an education space. In essence both of these locales represent being part of a diabetes team, and I enjoy the different approaches required within each domain.

I recognise, appreciate and admire the grit displayed by my clients over their lifespan since I have been involved in their care. They too are my teachers as people with immense knowledge spanning decades of an authentic lived experience. In essence their diabetes journey is far longer than my own university training! I use these learnings to help shape my own teachings for the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Your number 1 tip for a person living with diabetes?

A single piece of advice to any person seeking medical assistance in the field of diabetes medicine is to remain honest and open. This helps foster the development of long-term relationships and adds to consistency in care provision. Likewise demand openness and honesty from your team and call them out if such is lacking.

I appreciate Dr Stan recognizing that considering lived experience provides a broader picture and some teaching. Lived experience is simply invaluable.

Next, we will meet Alisha Lalbeharie, a registered podiatrist, who will share her insights and the importance of seeing your podiatrist on a regular basis for foot risk screening and foot care education.

E xx