6 December 2024

Hi Shingy,

Msafiri and Shingy

Eighteen months ago, in June 2023, I wrote to you when we finished the Camino Frances. Since then, I have sat on the study's bookcase, hoping for a new adventure. 

You might remember that I ended that letter with these words: "It is always sad when a good thing ends, but then the next good thing can start." Make no mistake; since then, many good things have happened and some sad stuff. But I am glad to tell you the next good thing is about to start.

Thinking about the last eighteen months.

We are all eighteen months older. It has just now dawned on me that the youngest is only eighteen months old, and others are 46 times eighteen months older. 

Eish, how quickly time passes. It reminds me of this verse:
"Therefore, be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

All of us are hopefully wiser. If some are not, they should pray for more.

During this time, I also saw more grey hair appear, even on you.

Some of us have less grey hair, but it is because we have lost some of it along the way.

Some are slower, which is a patience builder for others.

Some hear less, but the reason might be that others are talking softer.

Some have to drink more pills; I do not know anyone who does less.

OK, let's stop looking back and focus on the near future.

We are going on a hike, and I am sure it will be a whale of a time.
Can you guess where we are going? 

The plan is to hike the Whale Trail starting on 15 December.    

Many years ago, before I or you became part of the family, Punda, Mpanzi, and Barika hiked the Whale Trail. Punda says he cannot remember when it happened, but it was at least 20 years ago. In those days, you carried all your gear on your back. But you know, as time passes, things change. I see Punda and Mpanzi are thrilled to do this trail in Slackpack mode. 

Let me introduce you to our group. Since I have not given most people in our group nicknames, I will use their real names. 

Christo and Nelda Diedericks have been friends of ours since 2000. Nelda is the organizer, or instigator, of this hike. 

Louis and Hanlie Roos have been our friends since we were in varsity. They hiked the Whale Trail with us many years ago.

Trevor and Janet Joubert. We only got to know them when they planned to walk the Camino in Spain last year.

Valeri van Eck, we met only once, if my memory is correct.

Elna van der Merwe, Valeri's friend, which we must still meet.

The last four are my close family: 

I call Kobus Punda because he strolls and stops frequently. 

Belinda's nickname is Mpanzi, which means 'planter. ' Fortunately, it describes her well because I misspelt her name at the beginning of our stories. It should have been Mpenzi, which means 'lover.' 

I call Talita Barika, which means 'blessings.' She is Punda and Mpanzi's daughter.

Barika is married to Josh Smit, whom I named Rafiki. It means a friend. He is a friend to all who get to know him. 

You have noticed some changes in the house during the last few days. Did you see the strange-looking bed that replaced the old one in the study? See the photo below; I climbed in to find out what it is. It is called a camping cot, and I hear a second one is on its way. I heard Mpanzi is preparing for special guests that will arrive for Christmas. When we return from the Whale Trail, I must write to inform you about these special guests.

For who is this camping cot?

Talking about Mpanzi, it is her birthday tomorrow! 

Shingy, since you cannot write, I will speak a few words to Mpanzi on our behalf and Punda's. 

Mpanzi,

We want to congratulate you on your birthday. It is a great privilege to have you in our lives. Thanks for all you are and do, caring for us and making the house and garden the best, most beautiful place in the world for us. The garden is a joy to us, with all the lovely flowers and hiding places, especially if Bagheera is here. All the fresh herbs that make our meals so much tastier. Thanks for making the best delicious meals, looking out for our health, checking that we take our medication on time, and drinking enough water. Thanks for the effort you make to keep our families connected. Thanks for all the adventures we could share with you. Shingy says she is very thankful to you for all those times sitting on your lap.

May the next year be filled with blessings, joy, peace, love, wisdom, good health and adventures. Much love from all of us.

 

Shingy is on Mpanzi's lap.

Cheers.
Msafiri