The du Toit Family

Random Photos

2011-03-15T13:09:00.000-07:00

Ian and Lynn came to visit this past weekend, so we took some family photo's with Andrew's new camera, so we also had to take some photo's much to everyones disgust .... but how lovely they came out ... so thrilled - Jess, Andrew will become the photographer you are ..... just look at these!

Chantal and Nelson

The kids with Nanna ...

Mother and daughter ...

last but not least .... the du Toit's

Triathlon

2011-03-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Midmar Triathlon

Natasha coming out of the Midmar Dam after the swim ...

The cycling, moving up to 2nd lady .....

Bianca and I having a chat while waiting ...

Tracy, myself and Bianca waiting ....

The finish line

Finishing 2nd lady ..... 1st in her age group ...... really good for a amateur .... beating some pro's .... and this achieved in some blistering heat ... man it was hot!

Getting the prizes and a posibility at SA's.

What an awesome day we had.

Dads 80th Birthday

2011-03-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

An 80th Birthday Celebration!

Mom and Dad

On the 1st March Dad celebrated his 80th Birthday.

A milestone that could not go without some form of celebration.

So here are some of the photo's.

Lorraine playing the Clavinova for us (electronic piano)

Chantal also played her flute, but I am battling to download that photo.

A very enjoyable afternoon was had by all.

Christmas wishes to all

2010-12-22T00:05:00.000-08:00

Just want to wish all our family and friends,

Near a far,

A Christmas that is bright and cheerful

and may the New Year begin on a

prosperous note .....

Love and miss you all

God bless

Andrew, Valmai, Andy, Chantal and Nanna

Andrews 50th

2010-11-08T14:27:00.000-08:00

Happy 50th Birthday Andrew .....

On the 01 Nov, Andrew turned the BIG 5 0 !

We decided to throw a bash at home to celebrate, and we had an awesome evening .... with friends and family, some walked up the stairs and others came from afar .... he even had a surprise guest from America ..... it just happened that Wilma had come over for 2 family weddings and our party was politely between the weddings ..... it was great having Wilma and her sister Trudy over, Thanks Wil for coming..... To Mike and Rina, I know times are tough for you, but once again, awesome that you could make it we appreciated it so much, Kevin, Tracy, Tash, Darren and Claire, you fitted us in during this hectic time, just coming back from overseas, Claire in the middle of exams, Tash flying in and out, and Darren just being so cool and making us laugh way to much ... Thanks guys it was awesome having you over again .... Denise and Carol, the oldest of friends ... thank you for coming down as well, taking off work, just being here was special, we so appreciate that you all made such an effort to come. Mark and Mickey from PMB, left the business for the evening to share with Andy .... Thanks guys. And to all the others that travelled in, thank you it is very much appreciated each one helped to make the evening special ....

I don't do parties, but I have done 2 in the less than 2 months, and they were both awesome and memorable ...... and so very different. We had 40 guests this time around, and all I can say I loved it, haven't danced so much in a very long time, Thanks Chris for playing such good dancing music .... we showed the young one's how to party ... well enough talking and here are some photo's, thanks to Chantal ....

JUST TO SAY: WE HAD AN AWESOME EVENING ENDING AT 3 AM WITH ME SENDING MY BROTHER OFF TO BED ........ AND WALKING THE LAST GUEST HOME ....... THANK GOODNESS SHE LIVES RIGHT NEXT DOOR .....

Mom

Andy - cleans up nicely ....

Tash and Darren

Nelson and Chantal

Father and Son .... love you two ....

Trudy and my dearest friend Wilma .....

Brian Kenny and Abby ..... known Brian all my life ....

Nanna ...... enjoying herself .... had lots of fun ...

Dad and Mom ... got to bed way past the usual bedtime ..... the Party animals ....

Kev ..... what can I say, awesome, my friend.

Speech .....

And the main man that counted for the evening ....

My Boet .....

18 till I die ...... (is his song)

The most awesome cupcakes that I baked ..... I can give the bakers a run for their money ....

Appy photographer .... handling Dad's birthday pressie and not doing very well ....

My little angels .... we love you two ....

Isn't he just awesome!

Denise getting lucky .....

Carol, our neighbour, and Nanna

Claire, myself, Carol, Denise and Tracy

I love you guys .....

My cussies turn with the birthday man....

Sorry Bugz .... somehow missed your speech photo's ....... but bed is calling me, way past my bedtime ...

On Friday was our 27th Wedding Anniversary ... couldn't do much to celebrate with all the party prep going on ..... but just to say .... I love you my Babes, fells like yesterday that we walked down the aisle .... would not change a thing ..... you are awesome

Happy Anniversary!

The 2010 Beech Family Reunion

2010-10-12T04:29:00.000-07:00

On Sunday 10th October the Beech family had a reunion ....

It was being held on a Sunday which would be very difficult for us to attend but eventually Andrew and I decided that we will go, so we flew up to Jhb on Sat evening and flew back on Sunday evening. It was well worth our while, was really awesome to see my Uncles, Aunts and cousins. I also wanted to take photo's of everyone there, but then I was chatting so much that I did not get to even do that, but I managed these photo's .... I am really sorry that I did not get more photo's, but everyone was taking photos, so hopefully I can get more off facebook at some stage. But here are my photo's!

This is Uncle Jimmy's son and his wife - a cousin I met for the first time.

Guess!

Candice

Jess and Candice ...

Double take - just losing the glasses ....

I just love this photo ...

Emily and Wayne ... was great to see Em again ... last saw her when her eldest was a tiny baby ... now she is all grown up!

My skoonsus, Wilma - always looking good.

Michael John and Rina, as happy as ever ...

Elizabeth (Noena) Uncle Lesley's daughter, was awesome to see her again, and the Reunion was hosted at her home. Elizabeth is such a short, bubbly, happy person, and I am of the opion that she has a heart of gold .... I told Chantal that she would have slotted in very well there and would have felt sooooo at home, amongst all the shorties .... our cousins are even shorter than Chantal. I last saw her at Father's funeral, that is over 21 years ago.

Uncle George, he has also just been very ill and recently come out of hospital .... but still looking good!

Our Uncle Bob .... A very dear person to us .... has just been diagnosed with Prostrate cancer .... looking good, still waiting for what must happen ..... our thoughts and prayers are with him and the family ...... the one knowledge that we have is that God does take care of his own!

Uncle Bob again with his wife.

Uncle Frikkie and the one and only sister ..... Aunty Nellie - tiny but looking good. Also still the same ..... my memories of Aunty Nellie, are her telling us ghost/scary stories when we were little .....

Uncle Jimmy to the right, flew especially in from Australia for this reunion ..... he is looking so good and strong, just amazing.

Uncle Ronnie to the left. He is also looking good and strong......

Just need to say that I have not seen many of them from the age of about 12/13.

My cousin, Sylvia ... still the same bubbly person, and a bok for sports .....
Elizabeth, Emily, Sylvia, Joey, Tracy all were jumping in the pool ..... I am so full of nonsense, the pool water must be at least 30 deg C before I would even put my toe in it .... when they came close to me, I just told everyone, I must still fly home ..... good excuse or what!

Wena and Aunty Rachel ..... was great to see Aunty Rachel again, and chat to Wena .... Aunty Rachel and Steven with his little family came to visit us, in Toti, a while back ......

Rina and Tony .... still the same old Tony, had a lovely chat with Rina, what a lovely match, Tony is so happy now, to the right is Jennifer ... Aunty Rachels oldest daughter ... also had such a nice chat.

Ditto ..... in the back in the blue T-shirt is Peter.

Well sorry guys, but that is all I have to offer, if I can get some more pics to post, I shall do.

Cedric was there with his family, he is also just the same as always ....

Joey and Anne, Uncle Alison's daughter's were also there.

Tracy, Uncle George's daughter organised the reunion with help from Elizabeth and Brendan.

Obviously, Brendan was there with his family ....

Gosh so many, can't think of everyone right now that I was chatting to and so many I didn't get to chat to ......
Great thing is, that so many cousins come down south for holidays, and will contact us and come round for a visit. Will be great.
Barbara live in Toti as well, just also to mention for my sister ... Linda's two girls were there as well, and I know one lives here in Queenburgh .... I think she looks just like her pa ....

I just have to say a huge thank you to Elizabeth, Brendon and Tracy ....

Dominique and Shaun - The Wedding ......

2010-09-28T03:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 25th September

Dominique and Shaun were joined together in holy matrimony ......

The venue was awesome, the pastor gave a truly lovely message and the food was simply delightful....

Yolandi and NJ

Yolandi was one of the bridesmaids

Nelson and Chantal ...

Yolandi and NJ

Janine and Andy

Cute .....

The two brothers ...

So different and yet so similar !!!!!!

Without the smokes but still .......

Dad and Mom du Toit

Jonathan ... the little brother .... not so little anymore

Mr and Mrs Alexander ...

Dominique and Shaun have been waiting for this moment for such a very long time

and finally the day had arrived .... the vows made ...... the rings exchanged

So happy ...

Love this one .....

Just us ......

And some more of us .....

The venue ..... so lovely ...

Mom and Daughter

and again ....

and again .....

Ian, Dad and Andrew ...

Should have added Jonathan to the left and Andy to the right

would have completed the picture.

The couples first dance. ....

The tear jerker dance ....

Ian and Dominique's dance to "You raise me up"

Was simply awesome - Charma had the same song, last year, for her and Norman's dance ...

But this was just so special - her second Dad's dance and it was so beautiful ......

And Janine caught the flowers..........

Doesn't she look good as a blond again?????????

So on Friday morning, we raised ourselves early, after only a couple of hours sleep,

attempted to put some order into our home after the 21st, lost some of the music deco and then packed and went off to Jhb for the wedding.

Could simply not not miss the wedding.

So all in all, we had such an action packed week, never a dull moment .......

Everything that could go wrong did go wrong, but everything that was important and needed to go right - was perfect ...... and that made this crazy, hectic, eventfull week, so very worthwhile and memorable ....

Chantal turns 21

2010-09-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

On the 22nd September Chantal turned 21!

She wanted to have a masquerade party at home ......

Lots of work later and the party was a reality ....

Little sleep, lots of food, a lovely cake ...

and here is the pics!

Chantal and her friends dancing in my empty lounge ...

Andy and Janine ...

Nelson and Chantal ....

Nanna and Lorraine .....

It says it all ....

It feels like I cut hundreds of these notes and maskes out ....

don't want to do that again in a hurry .....

my home is still covered in glitter......

We wanted a cardboard arch .... but my hubby did this ....

soooo much better

We strung hundreds of balloons and streamers accross the section that is not undercover and created a canopy .....

Just so glad that it did not rain .....

Seated 48 people in this little area ...

Andrew and I ......

Dad ... making THE speech ....

turned very emotional ....

Bugz .... listerning to her Dad

Her 'boet' doing his speech .....

Bugz ... doing her speech .......

Chantal with some of her old school friends .....

It worked so well, there was a table for the church friends, old school friends, the older friends (Andy's friends that have put up with his little sister all these years), the 'Afrikaans' friends, the varsity and orchestra friends and then there was the table for the older folks (the Grannies, Grandpa and Aunt). Worked out so well.

My two .....

On the right is Brian van Niekerk, the minister, who is also a 2nd cousin on the Beech side of the family ...... surprise, surprise .... the world is very small indeed

I am so proud of this cake ..... I baked it, I decorated it and copied the music onto it ..........

The young one's dancing .....

Just want to say this...

last week was such a full week ...

I crashed Andrews Isuzu on Tuesday ......

I do not have a scratch on me - daily thanking the Lord for his protection,

the car was packed with the drinks for the party ...... how embarrassing ... I don't even do alcohol

Chantal turned 21 on Wednesday ... I baked and iced the cake that evening

Spent Thursday making tons of 'Macaroni and Cheese'

Decorating and getting everything ready ....

Don't know how we did it ....

But just going through 2 weeks of very little sleep and here I am starting to plan Andrew's 50th .....

The Peinke Family Reunion

2010-08-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

The Peinke's had a family reunion on the 07th August and all the family were invited, from the Peinke side and the Bottcher side. It was so good to see everyone again, for me it is special because I spent so much time with them on holiday.

Finger eats were organised, and the venue was in a night club as a private function which was nice for the youngsters as they could just stay on and carry on partying when 'Jet' opened later.

It was also great to see Michael and Rina again.

I just need to add - GAUTENG IS FREEZING ......... Gosh I love Durban!

Mike and Rina

Sue, Kevin Peinke and a 'Peinke' cousin

My crowd ... Nelson, Chantal, Janine and Andy ...

Gerald, playing his bag pipes

Nanna, Aunty Trudy, Rosemary and a 'Peinke' cousin

The two remaining sister's ....

Rina, Michael and Nanna

Caroline and her family

The Peinke family - Denise, Gerald, Rosemary, Jeanette, Caroline, Aunty Trudy, Kevin and Tracy ..

Denise came from East London and brought Aunty Trudy, Gerald came from Botswana, Caroline came up from Vryheid (KZN) and Jeanette flew in from the UK

Jeanette's arrival - a huge surprise ... only Tracy knew she was coming over from the UK

That pole ......

Rosemary's family

Our family ....

Now just the three of us ....

Fun .......

And some more fun ..... Andy looks like he aint going there with Claire and Nadine ....

Tracy will have to have one at home ... she was a pro ..... I just wonder where she is hiding her one....

Rosemary and Tracy ..... and Tracy is not letting go of that pole ......

Denise, Caroline and Nadine (Rosemary's daughter)

Gerald and his bag pipe mates

Darren and Andy .....

Kev and myself

Mike and me .....

The Gorrie's .........

Caroline and Denise .....

And the night was still young ..... just way to much for these two ....

Soccer World Cup

2010-06-11T01:43:00.000-07:00

The Soccer World Cup kicks off today, last nights concert in the Orlando Stadium was great (watched on SABC 1 - they played ads in-between - could not believe that!) ... just a pity 1 or 2 artists were a bit lacking - wonder how they found them, could rather have had the Parlatones perform more than 1 song, really ....... there was a lady that sang some songs - was awesome - such a vibrant person and huge stage personality - even though she is black, would go see her anytime, not the traditional music - really good stuff also a black guy - not the greatest voice but he was awesome in my books ..... I watched it all, the international artists were also awesome .....

Making a good indian bunny chow for supper tonight ........ for the kids coming over to watch the opening and 1st match on TV at our place ........ so looking forward to it, but I have to decide if I am going to 'bunny chow' mine or just place it on rice ..... decisions ... decisions ... decisions ..... going to walk 10 km's tomorrow - so maybe I can chance it .....

I have to admit ... I have finally got into the World cup 'vibe' thought it had passed me ........ also can't believe I am going to watch soccer today (I like action - and soccer is a very slow game) and most probably tomorrow etc etc etc ...... Rooting for Bafana Bafana today ...... 80 something on the log playing Mexico who is about 17 or 18th on the log ...... but it is the World cup so we will be supportive of our boys and hopefully they go on to the next round ...............

I am supporting our team first, and then I will also support the 4 teams that have made KwaZulu Natal their 'home' ...... it only makes sense to me ..... so now I just have to find out who those teams are .............

Internet at home has been down from last saturday ... hoping they sort it out by today ..... Love and miss you all -

PS - to the family in America, especially Garreth ... guys, you are missing out on an awesome vibe here in South Africa - it is incredible ..........

Big Walk Results

2010-05-25T12:35:00.001-07:00

This will be short and sweet -

sorry, but I just have to boast -

because I am so proud of us all:

Andy and myself came in no. 82 and 83

Chantal came in 215th

Andrew came in 229th

out of 1116 walkers for the 20 km walk .........

and this was our first walk ......

Next walk - some time in July (info from Tracy) .... 21 km : 1/2 Marathon

Looking forward to Tracy doing her 9th Comrades run on Sunday

we are all fit and ready this year to support her

- going to be a breeze .....

Spread your wings and fly, my cousin - you are going to cream it this year!

Just need to add - the views at the start of our walk was simply awesome ....

The whole Durban beachfront has changed - no more a road in front of the hotels (Elangeni/Holiday Inn etc) just one huge big promenade ..... stunning I must say.

Starts at the harbour mouth, past Addington hospital, past the hotels, past the casino, the ocean on our right for all that way ..... awesome I tell you - the sea was so calm ......

East Coast Radio Big Walk

2010-05-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Today, we participated in the 20 km section of the East Coast Radio Big Walk ......

All fresh and perky at 06h15 in the morning before the start ...... little did we know!!!!!

Chantal and I broke away from the men early in the race, but not by far, Chantal decided that she would save herself and rather fall back and walk with her Pa, Andy joined me, and believe me, he was my rock when times were tough, close to the end. I got him motivated through all the flats and the beginnings of the uphills and then it was his turn ...... he was brilliant - THANKS MY BOY - WHAT A "STAATMAKER"!!!!!!!

Never thought I would want to see that sign so desperately ...................

Andy and I coming in .... the Radio presenter even calling our names and people cheering us on ... Nelson was right there with him (the presenter) - hence this prime photo

Nelson dashing to get this one ...... damn but my legs were just carrying me at that point, Andy taking a stroll down the final stretch .......

Waiting for the rest of the family - I knew Andrew was not far behind us .... had seen him at one section of the walk as you double back - no sign of Chantal at that point ......

Chantal comes in ahead of her Pa .... what a surprise, she had overtaken her Pa about 2 km before the end - those short little legs moving like that ..... Well done Chantal !!!!!!

Andrew arriving just a short while after Chantal ...... I love you MY BABES !!!!!

After the finish at 10h00 ........ everyone of us feeling pain from the hips down .......

At this point I am blamed - simply amazing that, but my shoulders are broad .....

But all said and done ...... to you all

Thank you - without you guys, I would most probably not have done the walk, if I had, I would never have done it in such a wonderful time - I wanted to do it in 3 hours, Thanks to Andy (my little hero) we did it in 2 hours and 38 minutes ..... Chantal (my little angel) did it in about 2 hours 50 minutes and Andrew (my big hero) in about 2 hours 53 minutes - all under the 3 hours.

Not too shabby for a first time, I think seeing as the winner came in at 08h55.

Hopefully this is the first of penty that we do, Andy - you should walk my son...... that skinny little bod of yours with those great big strides - boy you would win it if you trained
look what you did with very little training ...

Last but not least, I have to say a huge THANK YOU, to the unsung hero of the day, Nelson - you were up very early this morning, we left you at UShaka - you kept yourself busy till we arrived at George Campbell Technical High (Andy's high school), took photo's, looked after us, drove us home, pampered Chantal all day ....... Thank you ...............

Juice receipes and my passion

2010-05-02T14:05:00.001-07:00

Breakfast Juice:

2 x Apples, 3 x Carrots, 3 x sticks Celery, 1/3 x Beetroot, 1/3 lemon with peel and 1/2 Cucumber/zucchini.
Rinse vegetables well and wash off waxy residue on apples. Try and source organic produce where possible. Juice together but really only tastes good when juiced with a Oscar Juicer (really expensive).

1. Fruits - Purify - contain mainly vitamins and renders the body alkaline.
2. Vegetables - Balance - contain mainly vitamins - alkaline when raw and acid when cooked/steamed.
3. Nuts/Seeds - Sustain - contain minerals and oils - Acidic.
4. Animal meat and dairy are strong Acid.
The body thrives on 75 % Alkaline and 25 % Acid.
Cooked food: contains no enzymes. Raw food contains many enzymes and you save 20 % of your total body energy to process foods.

Breakfast Juice (Stomach Settler)

1 x Carrot, 1 x Pear, 2 thick slices of pineapple, 1/2 Lemon, 1/4 tsp fresh root ginger.

All the ingredients in this juice can soothe and heal a troubled digestive tract. Pineapple contains the digestive enzyme bromelain, which helps to break down your food, and also has strong anti-inflammatory properties. The lemon and ginger add a refreshingly zingy flavour. Just be careful with the lemon - too much can spoil the juice - but once again tates lovely when juiced with an osca juicer.

.......

When I talk about walking as exercise, it is simply what works for me, and when I say that it works for me, I mean LONG term, I have on countless occasions joined the gym, got various fitness DVD's etc, then joined various fitness classes, doing all the power training, and various things on various days, but I don't have the staying power, so rather do whatever takes your fancy - do that, whether it be dancing, running, circuit, weight training, walking, cycling, playing tennis, hockey, football, whatever sport. It is all good, it is what is going to hold your interest long term. Walking does it for me, I have been doing it for 6 months, firstly I needed to get fit, I have so many DVD's here, ranging from Yoga all the way to kick boxing, but I do them a few times and find a reason why I can't do it the next day, the other reason being is that if I want to do the DVD's I have to get up before 5 in the morning to do it, or else I am doing it with an audience, which I don't enjoy doing, so all in all the walking does it for me. Remember one thing, for me, I drive down to the beach promenade, walk with the most amazing view and refreshing air filling my lungs, out in the open ... it totally de-stresses me and that really appeals to me rather than jumping up and down in my lounge with none of the above to motivate me. I look forward to my daily walk, today I even took 2 walks, one with Andrew in the morning, and another with Chantal this afternoon. Yesterday, Andrew and I did a 10 km training walk to prepare for the 20 km walk in 3 weeks time. I love it, so guys, it is about finding out what exercise form you love doing and do that, that is what is important .... you need to look forward to it, not find it binding and a right real pain in the B-hind. So Sharon, I personally don't think power training is better than for instance Yoga, I most certaining believe Yoga will win hands down every time, because it is a 'complete' body workout - mind, body, soul stuff, but then again it is all opinions, and each will point out why theirs is the best. Best of all to me, anybody (mostly anybody) can walk, and even better, it is for free - you only need to spend a bit on some reasonably good walking shoes, and really everyone has 'tekkies'.

I also just want to add, you must also always be pushing yourself, I am sitting here, my butt is sore, my leg muscles are sore, muscles I didn't know existed are sore, although I walk 6 out of 7 days a week, when I walk over the weekends, I push myself because that is what you need do, you need to always be improving and pushing yourself. Always remember one thing, 'muscles burn fat' .... so I do recon that by losing a kilogram a week, goes to show that walking is not that a bad form of training, but just to recall, every time I joined the gym, they ALWAYS had us training on cardio ONLY for a minimum of a month before they wanted us to do circuit training (which is muscle building and strength training), the trainer always had us do cardo before we did circuit as well.

I shop often and so I view that as my upper body strength training - I promise you, that is all I am giving my upper body - not good for the wallet I must say ........ but look at it - from the shelf into my trolley, from the trolley, onto the till counter, from the trolley into my boot, from my boot carry it all the way to the kitchen, in my house that is far I will add, then from the packets into the fridge, freezer or cupboards, then again from the cupboards into the pots or bowls, I think that is more than enough upper body strength training I need ............

So no matter what form of training you are doing - enjoy it, do it, and then want to do it some more ...... that is what is important ..............

When we are done walking on the 23rd of May, will post some pics and our times, and just to add, we start the walk at UShaka - and walk along the Durban beach front - what more could I ask for, I don't enjoy swimming in the sea, but I do love the views - so just imagine, even though it is a 20 km walk, I am still going to be walking some of the time right next to the beach, just simply awesome in my books, and so guys, that is simply why I walk, I really have a passion for walking .........................

The East Coast Radio Big Walk

2010-04-28T06:44:00.000-07:00

I need to tell you all this, because I don't know if I am stupid, crazy or just a little bit over the top ....... but last week myself, Andrew, Andy and Chantal entered this walk and we entered into the 20 km walking distance. I think I must be crazy. I guess it will take us about 3 hours to complete it, but there goes, I am seriously looking forward to this to see how I do. So for the next 3 weeks I am going to be doing some serious walking in preperation for this.

We went camping this weekend again, took Friday and Monday off work, Tuesday was a public holiday and the day that my father died 21 years ago. Did alot of walking, lots of hard work because of the steep hills to be climbed, was stiff all 4 days of walking, didn't even pick up a gram this weekend.

I also thought of all the years that I was as thin as a rake, and today I am sorry about how I treated my body when I was young. I couldn't put on weight, no matter how much I ate, just stayed thin, but then again, looking back at what I used to dish up for myself those years, the quantities did increase hugely over the years, at one stage it was hard to tell which was my plate and which was Andrews. So to warn you all, just be carefull of that.

I also remember how Chris, our minister, used to think I am anorexic, and always telling me to eat, I would laugh at him and tell him I'm fine, I eat enough .......... but I had a problem, I wasn't anorexic but I was pretty close to it with hindsight. I am short, and I always only weighed 42 kg. Today, later in life, I recall those days, and I also recall, being hectically busy and missing meals, going out on a friday night and not eating supper, and the next day, I used to feel ill if I tried to eat anything. I literally had to force myself to eat, I used to make custard and eat that, then later I could try and eat other foods, today I recognise it as being very borderline, I also recognise what I didn't when I was younger, that I was playing havoc with my body. My blood sugar was always very low, my blood pressure was always very low, and I did a fair amount of exercise those years. I would sometimes only eat a sandwich during the day and think it is enough, or a banana vetkoek, do you know, that sometimes I used to eat a half a can of condensed milk for supper sometimes, how very wrong I was, today I am paying the price for all of that, and this is my warning to you young ones, try and eat 5 meals a day, breakfast, lunch and supper then again a nibble (which could be fruit) at 10 oclock and another at 3 o'clock - you will be looking after your body for the future, you truly don't have to eat huge amounts of food, and secondly, exercise even if it is just for 30 minutes a day, 6 days a week. One thing that has always been on my side, is that at that time of my life, I didn't drink alcohol at all, or very seldom had any.

I can't stress it enough, eat but eat wisely........... will post more receipes later .........

I

My Diet

2010-04-17T01:22:00.000-07:00

For those that have asked 'what I did?' I will do a few small posts and tell you.

Firstly, you need to stop eating any 'crap'. Firstly, salt - do not use normal salt, use Himalayan Crystal Salt, it is the highest grade of natural salt. I also use A. Vogel's 'Trocomare' or you can use Bioforce's 'Herbamare.

Second, remember I needed to stop eating 100 % sugar of any kind, cane sugar, and any other natural sugars that they make. The first 2 days are hard, your body is craving it for energy. Cane sugar is highly refined ...... and that is the main crux of what I eat. As much unrefined food as possible. The other very important factor is - LOW GI foods.

Second to the Bible, I have a little book that I carry with me everywhere still, it is "GI & GL counter" by Dr Wynnie Chan. It gives you all the foods that are high/med/low GI and GL indexes. It gives you kcal's, energy kj, fat g, sat fat g, protein g, carbs g and fibre. Must take note of the front pages as well as quantities, that is most important because 100 g of something could be Low GI and Low GL but 150 g can be Low GI and High GL - then you should stay away. I don't check the kcal etc, but I have come to understand food. In that book I stay away from anything that I know my body will react to - e.g. sugars even if they are low GI / GL. I won't have a good nights sleep otherwise.

We walk daily - rest day is a friday - chose which day is convinient for you. Try exercise 6 days a week. min of 30 min per day. You need to feel it - We walk along the beach, today is saturday, and so we walked dbl the normal, because we have the time, and we then include cardio e.g. a bit of running in between the walking. Work up a good sweat .......

Now for the food ...... this is the hardest part for everyone .......

High GI foods like 'White rice' - Potatoes (incl sweet potatoes) - pumpkin (not all - Butternut is exempt) I stay away from - Bread is a NO...NO... I only eat Low GI bread and that might be one slice in a week.

For breakfast I have 100 g Jungle Oats - look at purchasing the one that must be cooked and not the quick and easy ones that have all sorts of additives and precooked.

At 10h00 I have half a glass of Ultra Meal Original Low Kj Meal replacement made by Metagenics (from America) should find in Health Stores that sells any Metagenics products.

At 12h00 I have a raw salad - tossed with at least 5 servings of fresh vegetables in, could have lettice, broccoli, cucumber, tomatoes, green/red/orange/yellow peppers, cabbage, carrots, spinach etc .... I also add Feta cheese (my protein) and as a dressing you can mix olive oil (cold pressed) lemon juice (must be fresh lemons) organic balsamic vineggar and of course ... Himilayan Rock salt. you can also add stuff like nuts, dates or sprouts. I also use regular salad dressings that are healthy.

At 15h00 I have 4 Provita's (Wholewheat) with either marmite or Organic Peanut butter that has no sugar/preservative/salt/etc added.

At night I have my supper ... sometimes fish with Salads, NO potatoe or rice salads or even beetroot. Chicken with some steamed veggies are also good. It is important to eat as much raw foods as possible, but within reason.

Need to include a bit of protein in all meals, remember veggies are carbs, so what I also do, is eat some nuts with the salads at lunch time. I cook brown rice with lentils (1 cup brown rice to 1/4 cut lentils with 3 cups water with my salt) and add to the salad.

Try use stuff like Tofu in Stir Fry's instead of meat: used stuff like Arame and Wakame Sea weed to flavour the Tofu and Braggs Amino (or soya sauce) so here is a receipe for Tofu Stir-Fry:

1 pkt firm Tofu, cubed.
Assortment of veggies (Broccoli, Onions, Carrots, Red pepper etc)
2 strips Wakame seawee, cut into 2 cm pieces with scissors.
1/4 tsp grated ginger
1 crushed garlic clove
6 Tbsp Braggs Amino or soya sauce.
2 cups cooked brown rice or rice pasta.

Heat the wok (use stainless steel preferably) with some ghee (butter fat) or olive oil. Stir-fry tofu until brown (hgih heat) Sautee the onions and all all other ingredients. Stir over high heat and cover for 2 to 3 min. Repeat stiring until soft but still crunch. Remove from heat and add Braggs amino. Service at once - serve with fresh srouts (it will add to the nutritional value of this delicious dish)

You need to vary the diet all the time and try and make sure that you eat various veggies and fruits daily. I am restricted to 2 fruits max a day. Good rule for all. Sugar content is high. When you are younger, in your twenties, your body can cope with all that you throw at it, but by the time we reach our 40's our bodies recon that they have had enough of what we shove down our throats, and recon no more now. Bad eating habits cause bad health.

Just a gentle reminder - when I arrive in Sacramento, Sharon had gone to have a colonop...... ( whatever) and I know that it is a very unpleasant experience, and I wonder what Sharon's body was saying to her then .......... Your colon is part of you intestines, a very important part. That means your diet is poor, food is lying in your body rotting away, place some food in a nice cosy warm body temp area for 3 to 5 days, and see what that looks like - it is in your body .......... lying there (Atri told Andrew that - his digestive system was a mess) Gillian McKeith is brilliant shw would show you what that looks like. A good digestive system should have a days food in your body not like most people who eat 'REFINED' foods, the food is there on average for 3 days min. That is where colon problems come from, or constipation (also lack of water) ........

I just drink 2 things now - Water - not tap water but purified water. I buy purified water now - not mineral water. Sharon has a good water purifier, use it. The other liquid I drink is 'Rooibos Tea' no milk - no sugar. Just like that.

Look at the food and check and use logic - is this good for me or bad for me.

Just to mention 1 last fact - if I eat crisps (potatoe chips) I wake up at 01h30 in the morning just like if I had eaten sugar ........ That means it is giving my pancreas and liver a tough time.

Till next time, need to do something for the 2 men in my life ......

Love and miss you all - to Sharon , I wish I was there to inspire, motivate and teach you, most that I have learnt has come from reading books, internet, Atri and I have used what I want and taken it from there, I used what I thought is good for me and didn't use what I deemed bad for me

most of all good luck ....
Ask if you need more info........

Goal weight

2010-04-14T02:47:00.000-07:00

About two weeks ago, I reached my goal weight .............

and so now this is the new ME! To my hubby - sorry the cleavage is gone .......... hopefully never to return. It has just amazed me how the body readjust's itself. Yes, my body does look a little sad under the clothes, but it looked a whole lot more sad with all the extra weight.

These pants I wore on my flight to and from America in July/Aug 2008. Worse still is that in Sept/Oct 2009 these pants were to small for me - NOW JUST LOOK AT THEM.

It is simply amazing what daily exercise and good, healthy eating can do .............

I shed a total of 16,5 kg (36 pound) from October and my dear hubby, who looks so great, has lost 12 kg (26,4 pounds) in approx 6-7 weeks.

We are amazed at all our little health issues that have simply dissappeared since we are eating healthy food, and I thought I ate healthy, but today I know alot better. The right food is amazing and I do believe Gillian McKeith

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT!

Mac Nicols Bazley Beach

2010-03-02T10:26:00.001-08:00

Two weekends ago we went to Mac Nicols Bazley Beach Caravan Park, and just to add, we always go there, such a great place to go. In our opinion, and the AA's, the best caravan park in South Africa.

True South African style, assistance in setting up the caravan tent.

All set up, but please note, the guys need the TV and the DSTV decoder and Video machine, the TV and video machine were purchased just for the caravan, and they say we are 'camping'..... but then we just simply had to watch the Sharks lose their rugby match .......

and don't miss my conure in the background - on the bird cage ....

Nelson, Andy and Andrew - at least when the weekend was over, Andy and Andrew had a tan.

And for me personally, I look at my RunX in the background and miss it dearly, the Monday night after this weekend, Chantal drove into another car, clearly following in her brothers footsteps, and it is now at the panel beaters in for repairs.

The lagoon .........

Pool area .............

Walk out the gate, cross the railway line and you are on the beach ......

Sharon's dream vacation ....

I needed to exercise, so we walked on the beach, Chantal and Nelson joined in.

The lagoon - different view from the beach, the caravan park right at the back to the left....

What can I say ......

The South African braai ...

We had such a stunning weekend, sorry but somehow, we never got a photo of Janine in, could not believe it when I saw there was none of her, but she obviously disappeared every time I took the camera out.

To the American dudes, this is just to show how we do it in South Africa ......

To the Long's and even Charlene, don't you all just miss it, you guys used to camp so often in your caravan.......

Guess

2010-01-18T04:15:00.000-08:00

Here are photo's and I wonder if you could guess who they could be???????????? Aren't they simply stunning girls....................

DCO Christmas

2010-01-13T02:27:00.000-08:00

Durban City Orchestra had a fundraiser just before Christmas, and they were all asked to dress a little festive like, and guess who decided to be different - the 'elf' went down really well.

Just on a more serious note, what a lovely performance that day, the venue was stunning, the music was lovely, and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Christmas at the du Toits

2010-01-13T01:32:00.000-08:00

I know this new is a little late, but there are a few nice photo's and so I thought I will just share them all.

Christmas at our home was such fun this past year, Kevin and Tracy and their children, Rosemary and her son Dylan, Granny Trudy and then Nanna, and Granny and Grandpa du Toit.

A day has never passed that quickly or so full of laughter in my life. All the folks there just provided for such humor it was unbelieveable and awesome.

Obviously - Andy

Claire and Chantal

Dylan

This is the photo of the Day! Granny Trudy and Darren ...............

Claire

just us .............

Chantal and Nelson (the boyfriend)

Nanna

The du Toit's Snr - another nice photo ...........

Kevin and Tash ..... another stunning photo .......

The main man that counts ................

Rosemary and Tracy

Andrew, Rosemary and Tracy

Andy, Claire, Chantal and Nelson

Granny Trudy and Darren

Nanna News 06 Jan

2010-01-05T22:12:00.001-08:00

Just to let you all know, that Nanna is doing good, I am really impressed with her, she stuck to the new diet yesterday and her blood sugar is down a bit more, and is now in what would be considered a more normal zone, for the first time. It will be nice if her fasting could be 5 then I will feel much better but it is just amazing what the right diet can do. I showed her last night what she can and can't have and she kinda understands, I went and did some shopping for her last night and she knows what she needs. I also showed her what she can have if everyone else is having pudding, so she would not feel hard done by, the end of it all, she feels much better because this was like a huge mountain in front of her. Her cholesterol is going to take time to drop, and I think that is going to be really hard, no 'slap' chips for her. On Friday when she was having the stroke, she was eating Andrew's chips off his plate, no concern for him at all.

Anyway this will most probably be the last Nanna post at the moment because all is going well.

Nanna News 05 Jan

2010-01-05T05:30:00.000-08:00

Got the results back for Nanna's cholesterol and it is a little too high, so the doctor has prescribed medication for her.

Mother is slowly realising that she has to start looking at her diet for health reasons, which is a good sign, last night she was still being stubborn but I see today she is reading some info and seems ready to make some changes in her life. Her sugar is still a bit of a concern for me and so she is going to have to deal with it and learn what she can and can't have to regulate and hopefully bring it under 6 for a fasting count. The difficult part is going away and being strong when everyone else is eating 'lekker' stuff. I went through it and the first 2 weeks are really hard because I bake puddings every Sunday but can't have it. I make pap and can't have it, for Christmas I made this really special trifle and could not have any of it, but you learn and you stop craving all these things. Mother is just going to have to be a little stronger, which I think she is really going to battle with because she is used to just doing and having what she wants. I have a few days to get her started, and I feel a bit for her, because it is the cholesterol and sugar all at once. After this mild stroke, and when Mother was having it, the one thing I remembered so clearly was Aunty Jean, and when she went senile and hers was from not looking after her diabetes. I was fortunate that many years ago I automatically stopped eating red meat etc and all the wrong 'fats' so when I found out that I was Insulin Resistant, I just had to sort out my sugar levels. I will say, it is devine to sleep every night for 7 hours and not wake up after 2 to 3 hours of sleep and not fall back asleep. I was lucky most people never know they have it, I just happened to have the sleeping problem that plagued me for 18 months, if it was not for that I would never have known.

I need to buy a blood pressure machine, because we need to check Mothers blood pressure daily because it is so low, that is also another concern. She will have to up her intake of salt. I get concerned because my blood pressure is always also very low, has been my whole life, Chantal has the same problem as well. Mother used to be on blood pressure tablets when she lived in Naboomspruit, and when she moved down, she could go off them, Andrew's Dad has found the same thing, that the blood pressure drops here at the coast. It will be interesting to see what her blood pressure will be when she is visiting Charlene.

To all of you, keep a close eye on what you eat, because your health is really important. To those of you with little children, watch what you feed them and set a good example for them, they, and most certainly you, will benefit from it.

Nanna

2010-01-04T02:22:00.001-08:00

I took Nanna to the doctor today, unfortunately my doctor is still on leave and I did not want to wait until Thursday, so I took her to the standby doctor that is available when our doctor is on leave.

He feels that Mother has had a mild stroke, and I have had to take her to have her cholesterol checked, will have the results back tomorrow. He seemed pretty sure about it after what I told him. Mother does suffer with swollen ankles and she drinks a water tablet for that but he wants her off it, because her blood pressure is low, I have been measuring it every morning, Andrew's Mom was kind enough to let us use their machine the last few days, will have to buy one for so that we can have one available. Mother's sugar levels are also a little higher than what it should be, diet will correct that, but to get Mother to listern is another story. Mother thinks that she must just quit sweets and all will come right, but the big picture is very different, and believe me I know, I have just been through it all these last 2 to 3 months, but ultimately I can try and control it as well as I can but ultimately the end decision is Mothers, and she decides what she puts over those lips of hers. One good thing is that Mother walked with us last night, obviously not at my speed and not as far, but she had a nice little walk. Exercise is very important right now as well. I had to get her special knee high stockings for her legs, she will most definately need help putting them on every morning, she does not have the strength to do that, but hopefully I can get her to sort that out herself over the long run.

So right now, it seems that Mother will go up to Jhb this weekend with Tracy and Kevin, I am not sure if they are leaving on Saturday or Sunday.

Just want to thank you, George and Sharon, for all your help and organising the church people to come, that did not cross my mind, I should have thought of that. Thank you for phoning them back later as well, anyway, just thanks for all the support, it was not easy to experience what I went through, and it is all well appreciated. I just thank God all the time that Andrew was with me at the airport, I don't know what I would have done if he was not there, because I could not have sorted the baggage, Mother, organise a wheelchair etc etc etc. You also offered to send over money, but right now it is not necessary, I have so far covered everything that needs to be covered, at least the doctor understood that Mother is not on a medical aid, and never asked for some crazy tests to be done, so that is good right now.

I just wanted to bring you up to speed on the progress, will let you know tomorrow, what the results are on Mother's cholesterol.

I need to start working, I only have 3 hours left to do what needs to be done, and this is really a crazy time of the month for me here at work, will most probably have to do some work at home tonight.

A Christmas Wish

2009-12-23T04:42:00.001-08:00

May your Christmas prayers be answered,

May your New Year dreams come true,

May God be with you always

in everything you do.

Happy Christmas to you all .....

Chantal and DCO

2009-10-20T02:29:00.001-07:00

Chantal performing with Durban City Orchestra.

This was the performance I was talking about.

Happy Birthday Michael

2009-10-20T00:32:00.000-07:00

Happy 50 th Birthday

Michael!!!!!

We all just want to wish you a very, very happy Birthday,

Hope you have many more,

We are thinking of you,

You have hit the 'half-a-century' mark

Wishing that all your dreams come true,

Hope you have a truly great memorable day ........

Happy Birthday Mike

Lots of love

Andrew, Valmai, Andy, Chantal and

last but not least,

Mother ...................

Durban City Orchestra

2009-10-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we had a lovely surprise, but not really a surprise. The Durban City Orchestra had a performance today, and we went to listen, I nearly said 'watch' but it is really meant to be heared. Chantal did mention that she had a solo part, but she has had these parts in the past at the KZN Youth Orchestra and they are normally over before it has really begun, and we would be part of the few people that would actually know that the instument being played at that moment was the flute. But to my surprise, there was a programme that reads:

The School of Music Presents (this is what the Music Dept at the University is called)

Durban City Orchestra

featuring

Jane Baillie

Sarah Baillie

Brett Alborough

Chantal du Toit

and I turn the page ..........

and the second piece reads:

Mozart Andante in C for flute and orchestra K315
Chantal du Toit ( Flute)
.... and the description .....

and so my daughter was standing next to the Conductor, Russell, playing the piece with the Orchestra behind her. It was a very proud moment for Andrew and I, and she played well, not perfect but well, and the most important thing of all, is that she loved it. They even had Biographies about the 4 of them in the programme. I even had a lady come up to me and ask if that was my daughter, and she they enjoyed it, and they were from Toti as well.

I just want to say, I am amazed that I sat through all that classical music, and I enjoyed it so much. The Durban City Orchestra is so different from the KZN Youth Orchestra, the DCO were absolutely amazing. Chantal obviously loves classical music and can tell you so much about it all, and we have to listen to it most Sunday's while cooking lunch, so from about 10h30 to 13hoo most Sundays we are exposed but mostly we don't really listern to it, it is there in the background, Andrew and Andy always can't wait to change it, Chantal does try and play classical music that I can enjoy, but when your daughter is playing all of a sudden the piece is like magic, and you sit up and take note and actually enjoy it.

We are an amazing species.
Our children turn us into some strange individual.
We suddenly do and love things out of the norm, simply because of them ..........

Wedding photos 2

2009-10-08T06:36:00.001-07:00

Got some more wedding photo's

These were on facebook

Just want to show you guys in America

Enjoy

Charlene can show the really nice ones when she gets back.

Happy Birthday George

2009-10-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEORGE!!!!!!!!!

08 OCTOBER 2009

We would just like to wish you a very Happy Birthday and want you to know we are thinking of you!

We pray that you have an absolutely great, fabulous, fantastic, stunning day,

and wish that all your dreams are realised.

May God blessing rain on you daily

From the day that we met, you made a very special impression,

and we have been blessed that you became a part of our family circle.

We love you George

Andrew, Valmai, Andy, Chantal and

last but not least, Mother.

Wedding Photos

2009-09-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

Charlene and Sias - 23 September 2009

Charlene and Sias - the first dance ......

These two go together, their friends did this dance with them ....

Amber is so cute, just look at her, sorry no photo's of her facing us, but the damn digital camera is so slow, I need to buy something decent ............

Amber in the middle dancing ............

Jessica - looking beautiful!

Chantal and I!

Candice doing her speach!

Sias doing his speech - look at all his friends parking in front of him, full of attention and chirping, was such fun, a very Afrikaans thing I understand. When Sias stood up so did all these guys, with their chairs and it was amazing.

Chantal playing in the Chapel, the mic is for the flute.

Mother, Andy and I, at the sound check in the Chapel.

Andy and Chantal at the reception
My stunning children!

Us! The young ones!!!!!!

The Past Week

2009-09-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

I haven't downloaded any photo's yet, but we have just had the most awesome week.

Last week Saturday, we had a braai for Chantal's friends, and we had a ball. Normally we would not hang around with the 'young ones', we normally retire to our room and mind our own business, but Chantal had invited, Pauls Mom and her friend. Andrew and Andy were on best form and between the two of them had everyone in stitches most of the time. An amazing evening, and I think a memorable one for Chantal.

Sunday morning we went early, 6 o'clock, to Port Shepstone, Andrew and Kevin were playing golf in Port Shepstone, Andrew has not played in 4 years. It was alot of fun, but most of all I rode the golf cart and had a ball. We laughed alot.

Tuesday we went off to Johannesburg, and Kevin and Tracy had another braai for Chantal, just to make her day a little special, I bought a cake to round it off. Some more fun was had by all, and you know that at Kevin and Tracy we always have a good time.

Wednesday was the wedding, and just to say, that Charlene look absolutely stunning, the whole venue was stunning, the chapel was soooo nice, and the bridesmaids and flowergirls, also looked so beautiful. The food was absolutely great, and the music was a very good combination, we had some for the older folks, some for those of us that can 'sakkie sakkie' and then there was music for the young ones. So a very good combo. Mike and Rina were also there, obviously, so it was nice to spend some time with them as well. Tony Beech was invited, but he did not come, Dawn and her husband came with Lukas, Heathers husband, but it is a bit sad for him as Heather passed on a short while ago and just 2 weeks before that his daughter died. So he was a bit sad, good for him to get a bit out, I think. Mother sat with them. We had alot of fun, and it was an absolutely stunning wedding, Charlene did well with all her choices, could not have asked for a better day. Charlene and Sias looked so happy, the minister that conducted the ceremony was good and spoke so nicely, Amber was such a little 'card' she was to precious for words. In the chapel she was just to cute and at the reception she danced and danced and danced. She was really so cute.

Thursday, Kevin, Andrew and Darren played golf again, and had fun, we just did all sorts of things, and in the afternoon, we went to visit Michael and Rina on their little plot. It is finally registered in his name, he seems to be doing just fine. Glad for him, and he is happy. The place has alot of potential, I hope Mike can realise all his dreams for the plot.

Friday, we came home, so most of the day, was packing driving and then unpacking, and last but not least, doing the washing. More washing was done on Saturday, but Chantal and I just relaxed in the morning and watched DSTV series channel, the Bachalor, and other such shows, the guys had to go work. Natasha Gorrie-Nuttal, came to visit and braai with us last night, she had come to Durban with some friends as she was going to participate in the Triathlon that was being held here in Durban, but her coach told her not to participate. But once again, we had alot of fun again.

Today has been preparing lunch and I had a nap this afternoon, and I thought I needed to just let you know what has been happening here, Wilma Willemse is coming now to fetch Charma's wedding album, so I need to end off, and tomorrow is back to the grindstone. Will post some pics later on.

Birthday wish

2009-09-21T04:01:00.000-07:00

Chantal du Toit - 22 September 1989

20 years ago, this precious tiny little human being became part of our lives. She has filled our lives with so much love, care and thoughtfulness, it is quiet unbelieveable. We have truly been blessed with a daughter who can give so much, has a wicked sense of humour, and who has always kept us on our toes. A daughter that always bites off more than she can chew, and yet always gets done, what needs to be done. A daughter that is always willing to help me, never a moan or a groan, whether we are washing dishes, cooking Sunday lunch, doing the washing, helping at Gravtech or just going to the shops.

I just want to thank you for always being such a special person in our lives.

Our family has a very special bond, that I will always treasure and cherish.

You are a truly amazing person in our eyes.

We love you lots and lots and lots and hope you have a wonderful birthday.

Dad, Mom and Andy

Theatre Supper

2009-09-03T05:41:00.000-07:00

On friday evening we were treated to a most enjoyable evening. A Fundraising Supper Theater hosted by the KZN Youth Orchestra. Their performance was absolutely lovely and condsidering that alot of the members have left or are busy with their matric exams and did not perform. This 'A' orchestra has only been together for a month, and most of the members are still scholars, only a few of them are over 18.

The hostesses had gone to so much trouble, and we were told it will be a light dinner, we had so much to eat.

The Ha!man was absolutely brilliant in my opinion, he improvisers all the time. He played and recorded a piece on his keyboard. Then sat down and played the cello with that piece. He whistles and makes all sorts of sounds and it is all according to him 'on the spur of the moment' stuff. Was really good. He had the concert master on the stage and had Reinhardt play a piece on the keyboard and recorded it, totally unrehearsed, and then Reinhardt improvise with his violin and he then played his cello as well, even making vocal sounds to it. He also uses some kinda whisle and he also played on the recorder. Was simply amazing how he puts it all together.

Find the shortest person and you will find Chantal!

She is so much older than most of them, and she simply looks so much younger than them.

Side view, sorry the photo's are not great, had a blonde moment and did not take the camera, so the Cell phone had to do.

The Sandpiper

2009-08-07T02:35:00.000-07:00

The Sandpiper

by Robert Peterson

She was six years old when I first met her on the beach near where I live. I drive to this beach, a distance of three or four miles, whenever the world begins to close in on me. She was building a sand castle or something and looked up, her eyes as blue as the sea.

"Hello," she said. ;

I answered with a nod, not really in the mood to bother with a small child.

"I'm building," she said.

"I see that. What is it?" I asked, not really caring.

"Oh, I don't know, I just like the feel of sand."

That sounds good, I thought, and slipped off my shoes.

A sandpiper glided by.

"That's a joy," the child said..

"It's a what?" "It's a joy. My mama says sandpipers come to bring us joy." The bird went gliding down the beach. Good-bye joy, I muttered to myself, hello pain, and turned to walk on. I was depressed, my life seemed completely out of balance.

"What's your name?" She wouldn't give up.

"Robert," I answered. "I'm Robert Peterson."

"Mine's Wendy.... I'm six."

"Hi, Wendy."

She giggled. "You're funny," she said.

In spite of my gloom, I laughed too and walked on. Her musical giggle followed me.

"Come again, Mr. P," she called. "We'll have another happy day.."

The next few days consisted of a group of unruly Boy Scouts, PTA meetings, and an ailing mother. The sun was shining one morning as I took my hands out of the dishwater. I need a sandpiper, I said to myself, gathering up my coat. The ever-changing balm of the seashore awaited me. The breeze was chilly but I strode along, trying to recapture the serenity I needed.

"Hello, Mr.. P," she said. "Do you want to play?"

"What did you have in mind?" I asked, with a twinge of annoyance.

"I don't know. You say."

"How about charades?" I asked sarcastically. The tinkling laughter burst forth again. "I don't know what that is."

"Then let's just walk." Looking at her, I noticed the delicate fairness of her face. "Where do you live?" I asked.

"Over there." She pointed toward a row of summer cottages.

Strange, I thought, in winter. "Where do you go to school?"

"I don't go to school.. Mommy says we're on vacation" She chattered little girl talk as we strolled up the beach, but my mind was on other things. When I left for home, Wendy said it had been a happy day.

Feeling surprisingly better, I smiled at her and agreed. Three weeks later, I rushed to my beach in a state of near panic. I was in no mood to even greet Wendy. I thought I saw her mother on the porch and felt like demanding she keep her child at home.

"Look, if you don't mind," I said crossly when Wendy caught up with me, "I'd rather be alone today." She seemed unusually pale and out of breath.

"Why?" she asked.

I turned to her and shouted, "Because my mother died!" and thought, My God, why was I saying this to a little child?

"Oh," she said quietly, "then this is a bad day."

"Yes," I said, "and yesterday and the day before and -- oh, go away!"

"Did it hurt?" she inquired.

"Did what hurt?" I was exasperated with her, with myself.

"When she died?"

"Of course it hurt!" I snapped, misunderstanding, wrapped up in myself. I strode off.

A month or so after that, when I next went to the beach, she wasn't there.. Feeling guilty, ashamed, and admitting to myself I missed her, I went up to the cottage after my walk and knocked at the door. A drawn looking young woman with honey-colored hair opened the door.

"Hello," I said, "I'm Robert Peterson. I missed your little girl today and wondered where she was."

"Oh yes, Mr. Peterson, please come in. Wendy spoke of you so much. I'm afraid I allowed her to bother you. If she was a nuisance, please, accept my apologies."

"Not at all --! she's a delightful child." I said, suddenly realizing that I meant what I had just said.

"Wendy died last week, Mr. Peterson. She had leukemia Maybe she didn't tell you." Struck dumb, I groped for a chair. I had to catch my breath.

"She loved this beach, so when she asked to come, we couldn't say no. She seemed so much better here and had a lot of what she called happy days. But the last few weeks, she declined rapidly..." Her voice faltered, "She left something for you, if only I can find it. Could you wait a moment while I look?" I nodded stupidly, my mind racing for something to say to this lovely young woman. She handed me a smeared envelope with "MR. P" printed in bold childish letters. Inside was a drawing in bright crayon hues -- a yellow beach, a blue sea, and a brown bird. Underneath was carefully printed:

A SANDPIPER TO BRING YOU JOY. Tears welled up in my eyes, and a heart that had almost forgotten to love opened wide.. I took Wendy's mother in my arms.

"I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry," I uttered over and over, and we wept together.

The precious little picture is framed now and hangs in my study. Six words -- one for each year of her life -- that speak to me of harmony, courage, and undemanding love. A gift from a child with sea blue eyes and hair the color of sand -- who taught me the gift of love.

NOTE: This is a true story sent out by Robert Peterson.

It happened over 20 years ago and the incident changed his life forever. It serves as a reminder to all of us that we need to take time to enjoy living and life and each other. The price of hating other human beings is loving oneself less. Life is so complicated, the hustle and bustle of everyday traumas can make us lose focus about what is truly important or what is only a momentary setback or crisis. This week, be sure to give your loved ones an extra hug, and by all means, take a moment... even if it is only ten seconds, to stop and smell the roses. This comes from someone's heart, and is read by many and now I share it with you...

May God Bless everyone who receives this!

There are NO coincidences!

Everything that happens to us happens for a reason.

Never brush aside anyone as insignificant.

Who knows what they can teach us?

I wish for you, a sandpiper.

The Dancer

2009-08-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

I came across this, and thought it very news worthy. It was an artical in the Local Nigel Newspaper. See if you can find the familiar face.

I know that this is an achievement to be proud of, and would like to share it with your family. I know this is what memories are made of. As we age, we tend to look and remember the wrong things, and I need to say that achievements like this are easily overlooked and forgotten, but yet they are part of the person. I look at all the photo's of you as a child, and all I see is a happy, smiling child.

Golden Oldies

2009-08-02T10:43:00.000-07:00

Thought I would post some more golden oldies! Hope you all enjoy.

My Grandfather, my Father and I think that that little child is myself, but Nanna is not sure, when I look at the one or two photo's of me when I was little, it seems to be me.

Nanna, has an itch that needed to be scratched!

Michael John Beech.

Sharon and Garry.

Nanna, Garry, Michael and myself.

Nanna and Garry

Sharon

Sharon, at the Convent.

I just find it so amazing, and let this be a lesson to all parents, there are alot more photo's of Sharon and Garry, but very few photo's of Michael and myself as little children. I have so many photo's of Andy and a lot less of Chantal, what helps today is digital camera's, they are very cost effective. I try now to take as many photo's as possible.

Andy and Chantal

2009-07-27T01:42:00.000-07:00

At Charma & Grants wedding, here are Andy and Chantal looking ever so charming! Everyone was asked to pose under this arch and photo's were taken. They really should have a photo of everyone at the wedding, which is always a nice momento, and we got the photo's of us as well. In America everything is so amazing, with these photo's was a thank you note and the postage stamp has their wedding photo on. So much to offer in America.

Happy Birthday Nanna

2009-07-15T12:01:00.001-07:00

For Nanna ...........

on your 74 th Birthday .............

We are wishing you

the happiest of birthdays,

Mother,

because you mean the world to us

just for being

the wonderful person you are!

We love you lots ..

We missed you lots ..

We are happy you are home!

Enjoy your day ..........

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Memories are made of these .....................

and some more .........................

Andy and Janine

2009-07-14T06:50:00.000-07:00

Andy and Janine having some photo's taken by an aspiring young photographer. Janine was asked to organise this to help some photographers that need to make a portfolio for their studies. It is nice to have photo's taken and then all powerdered up and you are made to look just perfect. Thought I would post these, there are still more to come, if there are some really nice ones I will post more. Just one more note, when I look at these photo's I do see the very strong resemblance to his Grandpa and namesake. The hair colour - it is out of a box, I might add. Everyone loves it except Andrew and myself, we love the blond!

Nanna and Trudy

2009-07-13T01:41:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to visit Kevin and Tracy at their holiday home in South Port, about an hour south of Amanzimtoti. Kevin and Tracy have two very special visitors with them, firstly Aunty Trudy, Nanna's older sister, and Kevins mother, Beryl Gorrie. Kevin's mom has not been well, even though she only stopped working recently, she is also over 80. She is really a lovely lady, thought I would share some photo's with you, we met them on the Beach, at South Port. The weather was lovely, and yes, it is winter here in South Africa.

Aunty Trudy is turning 85 in August. She is looking good and she has such a sense of humour.

Sorry about the quality of the photo's but they were taken on my Sony Ericsson.

Nanna and Granny Trudy

Mrs Peinke, Mrs Gorrie and Mrs Bester

And very obviously, Andrew, my man!

Home alone

2009-06-26T03:25:00.000-07:00

I am going to have a pretty quiet weekend this weekend. Andrew and Andy have gone up to Johannesburg this morning. It was very windy at Van Reenen's Pass yesterday and trucks blew over, and this was the traffic there this morning as they are still recovering vehicles. It took them an additional 1.5 hours to get through this.

Chantal is very lucky, the KwaZulu Natal Youth Orchestra is having a workshop this weekend, and they have to practice this weekend in Pinetown. She will sleep at home with 3 other kids, we are hosting, they practice untill 21h00 tonight, tomorrow they practice the whole day again and I think they finish at about 5 or 6 o'clock and then on Sunday again. This is all in preparation for her trip next week to Stellenbosch. The orchestra has been invited to participate in the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival. It is apparently such a learning experience for the kids, but it is also lots of hard work. She is looking so forward to this, it is all so exciting. They stay at the University there. Will post some news when she gets back.

Nanna comes back on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning Chantal leaves.

So I am going to do some sewing, making a blind for my bathroom, and sewing a few tops for Chantal. The house is going to be so quiet. Andrew flies home tomorrow night again, he was not into staying up in Joburg any longer than absolutely neccessary in that cold weather and Andy comes back on Monday. Andy has gone purely to 'jol' with Darren.

I am going to miss my family, but I will also enjoy the peace and quiet, just doing my own thing for most of the time.

Garreth and Jessica

2009-06-15T03:25:00.000-07:00

To: Garreth & Jessica

On your Wedding Day, the 17th June 2009

May the magic of your love make future dreams come true,

May the love you know, the happiness you've found and the memories you share,

Make this very special celebration,

a warm and wonderful time in your lives that you will always treasure!

Congratulations and the Very Best of Wishes

Sorry we can't be there, but our thoughts and love are with you.

Lots and lots of love

Andrew, Valmai, Andy and Chantal

The Mini

2009-05-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

The mini is virtually finished, one or two small little things still need to be done. Here it is. I am so proud of Andrew, he panel beated and spray painted the car himself. It was a job and a half, I kid you not. I knew that he could fix the engin and all that, but do the body so nicely? Eishhhh.

The colour is purple, but a really cool purple and it really suits Chantal and the mini.

The interior was done last week, turned from, what I call, Baby doef brown, to black, grey and purple. Looks really cool inside. This was done by professionals, but Andrew did all the panels, recovered the dash, still has one or two little things to finish there. Bottom line is Chantal is chuffed. What a huge improvement. Can't even compare.

The engine, was neat, tidied up, the wiring done properly as well. Nothing has worked as well from when we bought the car. I was always amazed, the lights had to be off to switch the car off. Now it works perfectly, like it should.

It just simply looks so good.

Chantal is so happy with the way the mini turned out, I am just as chuffed, it looks really good. Just to say, this is the first project that I really had minimal input, other than chirping, Andy helped, as did Chantal and even Paul, but really the man that gets all the credit is my very talented husband.

Well done, my Babes!!!!

Happy riding Bugz!!!! Enjoy your little Mini!!!!

Comrades

2009-05-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

Sunday the 24th was the 84th Comrades marathon, starting at Pietermaritzburg and finishing in Durban. We were up at 03h45, to get Tracy on time to the starting point. Fortunately we slept at friends in Pietermaritzburg, the none runners only got to bed at after 24h00. Thanks to Mark and Micky for putting us up, and putting up with us, for the night.

Kevin and Andrew holding our very visible flag, we made 3 last year, each team made there own, this was ours. Makes it very easy for Tracy to see where we are amongst the crowds. This was the first stop - Lion Park, about 15 km from the start.

Just a random photo, the runners wear random hats, one was dressed up as a Santa. There is a guy that runs in his suit, complete with tie, only tekkies.

Tracy arriving at the first stop, taking her satchet, see the hat, it matches the sign, all for noticing her with. Here she was looking good, running at her best time so far. Must have been hard for Kevin not to be running as well, but he assured us, he did not miss it.

Just another random photo, when we were leaving to go to our next pit stop. Was very hard, Andy was meant to be at the next stop, which was Camperdown, but he could not get there and neither could we but we stopped then at Cato Ridge to wait and make sure Andy and Kim, just a friend, made it.

This was our final photo, Natasha and Bonita saw Tracy at Drummond, half way mark, but Tracy was in total agony, she had shin splints about two weeks ago and just rested, tried to go on, got strapped, had pain pills, which was a first for her on a run, they did not help. We could not get to our spot but managed to get here at the top of Hillcrest, 54 km's into the race, unfortunately this is the spot! Tracy just could not go any further. She walked from Drummond to here, which is about 15 km, and said that she was not going to cause herself some very serious injury.

Tracy still can't really walk on her right leg, has to go see the doctor tomorrow to see the damage. She went back home today. I am proud of her, as it must have been such a hard decision for her, as she had trained so hard this past year, was planning on running a 8.5 hour race, but has her sights set on a 7.5 hour race next year.

For George, you know what it takes to do this race, I guess this brings back good memories for you and Sharon and the kids.

Just to tell you this, the most disgusting thing of all, the cops made it so difficult for us to get to the usual spots, they were towing vehicles that had parked on the side of the highway to get to the runners that needed their support and whatever else. The cops here in South Africa really sucked yesterday, it was the first time I had actually seen them tow away cars, and GP cars at that. What were those people going to do to get to where ever they needed to be, and what if they had little children. It is one day a year. They close their eyes to the dreadful Taxi drivers because they are petrified of them, but on a day like yesterday, they tow away vehicles. It really sucks!!!!! South African COPS you are disgusting!!!!!!!! Sorry have to get that off my chest.

Comrades News

2009-05-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

Don't have any Photo's but just to let you know that COMRADES is on the 24 th May - on my birthday, and we are going to be spending it next to the road, Tracy has worked hard at her training this year, I know she is going to do so well. We will sleep in Pietermaritzburg on Saturday night 23rd, with friends that have beens so kind to put us up, and be up early, to get Tracy on time to the start. We will operate as 3 different teams, Andy and Claire will have to be in one team and Tash and Bonita in the other and Kevin, Andrew and myself as the last team, Chantal has some or other orchestra performance on, so they will not be able to help. But I think with just Tracy running it will be so much easier to manage than when Tracy and Kevin ran. We will only be home later in the afternoon. Kevin turns the big 50 on the 21st of May and they will drive down on the 22nd. So the big count down starts ......... 13 days to comrades!

Wedding Photos

2009-05-03T13:23:00.000-07:00

In the Chapel
Grant, Charma and us!

You can see all the Willemse's in this photo, just not all facing the Camera. See if you can find them.

Just us having fun.

Father and Daughter!

The formal family Photo

2009-05-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

We all got dressed seriously smartly for Charma and Grants wedding, so we decided to take a picture of us as a family before we left for the wedding. I would have liked something less formal, something outside with some plants and landscape, but the baas van die plaas, set this up and who am I to argue, especially as it is us ladies that normally are running late, so time was of the essence. So guys, here we are at our very bestest.

Friday was a public holiday, so I went shopping for the formal outfit, dragged Andrew with me to help me choose, and this is what we found. Other than my wedding dress I have never worn something really smart like this. The dress really held it all in for me (and I mean the excess flesh). Got back from that shopping spree, then we had to go to the rehearsal dinner, as Chantal was playing the Clavinova (electronic piano) for the wedding and then her keyboard for the Cocktail hours. Her friend Jocelyn and Reinhardt, both from KZN Youth Orchestra, played the violin's with her. We had to take the piano and keyboard and set up early on Friday, so we had a lovely braai at the venue, which is absolutely stunning. We got home pretty late from that because Hillcrest is about 45 min from Toti and we were driving in two cars.

On Saturday Chantal declares that her dress that she has is way to big for her now, so what do we do, we go shopping again. Had to dash, and so that made us a tad bit behind time because we wanted to be there early so that the musicians don't get stressed and mess up. But they did well, really well, it was a first for Chantal, and we were proud of her. The wedding was really stunning, obviously had fun, Andrew and I danced alot with Chantal, Andy graced us with his dancing skills for about two songs, but we had lots of fun. Sat at a table with some lovely people.

This morning was waking up, shopping again - but for food this time, catching up with the washing, cooking Sunday lunch, then Wilma and Charma popped in quickly, Norman, Lyly and Grant had to fly back tonight from Jhb, Wilma and Charma leave on Wednesday.

I feel sorry for Charma and Grant that he has to get back to the USA so quickly, but they will be together again soon. They are going to be living with Norman and Wilma.

Chantal's Mini

2009-04-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

About two months ago, Andrew took Chantal's mini apart, and stripped it to the body only, and started this whole revamp.

Andrew and Chantal hard at work!

Chantal on her first day at work on her car!
Andrew was working on the car that morning, sanding, body filling, sanding, spraying primer and working really hard on the car. He has been coming home from work at night and religiously working on the mini every day, this while the little madam is galvanting all over the show, you know she has plenty commitments you see. He 'wips' himself that day and comes inside and decides that's it, no more, he is not doing this all by himself. Cleans himself up come and sits down to watch TV and what does the daughter do - decides that that is the day she is going to help her father with her car. Boy, did that take the wind out of his sails! It was so funny. So after lunch, the two of them were back working on the mini.

Last weekend, the Easter weekend I might add, Andrew spray painted the mini in the garage. Here is a taste of the new colour, Purple yes, with a touch of pink when the light hits it. He finished the job, but I have not taken the completed paint job. Just waiting for the base coat (which is the colour) and the clear coats of paint to dry properly, and then the buffing will be done. I will then post a nice picture. In the meantime the lights and all sorts of fittings have been added slowly but surely.
I have really married a handy man, have always known it, but by spray painting the mini, and doing such a good job with it, I am amazed at how good he is at being handy.

Special visitors

2009-04-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

Today, we had a special visit from a couple that is celebrating their first week anniversary of marriage. Uncle Tom is still the same very caring person that I have always known, and he has married someone that complements him so well. It was such a pleasure to meet this special lady.

When Uncle Tom phoned me to say he was on honeymoon, and that he had married, I wondered where would Uncle Tom find someone that could ever measure up to Aunty Anita. Uncle Tom never needed to do that, he has found someone special in her own right. I am so glad that Uncle Tom has found someone to share the rest of his days with. I know Uncle Tom is over 80 already, and he is the forerunner of this wedding spree that is happening this year. Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Kenny!

I told Andrew a few weeks ago, that there are so many weddings happening this year to family and friends close to us, and then Gareth joins in the wedding mania, and now Uncle Tom beats you all to it, way to go!

Nanna, Uncle Tom sends his love and regards to you. Hw was hoping to intoduce you to the new Mrs Kenny. Hope Sam or Sharon will show you this post.

Rally

2009-03-20T02:38:00.000-07:00

The winning team, I think!

We went watch a rally over the weekend. Yolandi came down to visit as NJ, her boyfriend, does the TV camera's that are fitted in the vehicles. He fits the camera's and makes sure they work through all the stages of the rally. I was really stunned to realise that a rally is so different to what I had always thought. You watch on TV and it seems as if one stages follows on to the next one, but they start at a totally different location to where they ended the previous stage. The 2 stages we had watched on Friday were at the same place, but that was because it was held in Pinetown, in town. It was such fun. The had to come from Scottborough, close to Amanzimtoti, and go to Pinetown.

On Friday evening after the rally we went to meet NJ at the Sun Coast Casino, the cars went there after the rally and we were able to see the cars. They were only allowed to work on them for 45 min after they came in and then they go into a holding area that is secure.

On Saturday morning we went down to Scottborough and watched a couple of stages there. The photo's were taken on Saturday. The first photo was the team that won the overall rally, I think. It is a Subaru, but they do not have the Subaru badge on because Subaru does not sponsor them. There car is worth about 5 million rand, this was its first rally. I guess they are impressed and looks at it as money well spent. The top guys change tyres after each stages, Yolandi says. so you can just imagine the cost of this 'sport'.

It was just so amazing. I will definately go again, because we know what to expect next time.

What we do .....

2009-02-23T04:05:00.000-08:00

This is what we do!

We manufacture, service and inspect, maintain, repair and load test cranes, hoist and various lifting equipment.

This one we manufactured. The latest - the biggest, as in lifting capacity, not the longest!

On Friday, we delivered this crane to our customer. What a buzz in the workshop. Always is when a crane leaves our premises. I asked Andrew why there is such an amazing atmosphere at work on such a day. He reckons it plain straight nerves, but it is definitely a buzz, like exitement. Maybe it is because nobody is doing their regular jobs, it is something different, it is obviously very dangerous, anything can happen at any time. The guys are working all around the crane and they are at risk all the time, so maybe it's the adrenalin rush. I again just see 'dollar' signs, that is if all goes well and nothing happens between our workshop and our customers gantry rails. Seeing it up in the roof at the customer is always great, seeing it electrically connected and operating is even more so.

Going from huge sheet of metal, cutting it down, welding it all together until this is the end result. I am so proud of Andrew and Andy, Andrew built it, Andy did the electrics. It took us about 6 to 7 weeks to complete. Obviously other jobs get done in between as well. I always wait to see if poor Andrew is not going to have a heart attack one day from all the pressure, or maybe he will give one of us a heart attack instead!

The crane is finished and ready to be transported to our customer.

The crane coming out of our building.

Andy doing special hand signs for the mobile crane operator so that he knows what we need him to do. Andrew and Richard also in the background.

In the process of moving it out of our workshop. They use our crane inside and the mobile on the outside. Here they are busy rigging it up for the mobile to lift it onto the truck. Part of the crane is still in the building, they have to find the centre for balance, this crane is about 18 mtrs long. We recon it weights between 4 to 5 ton, the mobile says that it weights 7.8 ton, but I think their scale is inaccurate. Check Andy out on top of the crane. He is busy checking that the rigging is done properly.

Loaded on the truck and ready to leave our premises. The truck is also amazing, when it arrives at our premises it is normal length, then they lengthen it to suit our needs. Obviously, driving that truck with 18 mtr of crane on the back is a mean feat. At our premises the road is just a normal street, not wide. So hats off to the truck driver. He transports the crane to site with no problems, other than needing lots of time.

At the customer!

To get the truck in at the customer, Andrew had to use the existing crane in the building to lift the back end of the truck and drag it in like that. It took them about an hour to get that truck into the customers premises.

Off loaded at the customer.

The truck has pulled out and the mobile has pulled in to lift it onto the rails.

Going up. This is so nerve racking.

Is it going to fit between the rails perfectly. Measurements have to be spot on, can be out by a millimetre or so but no more. When you are building something 17 or 18 or even 23 mtr wide and you may only be out by such a small margin, you measure, measure and measure again.

And it fits!

This is what we like to see. A job well done!

Hats off to all our employees that worked on this crane, now I just have to collect the bucks, and that is not always an easy feat either, especially not in this economic climate!

Oops he did it again.

2009-02-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

Well my son has done it again. What can I say. At least he is not injured other than sore neck and back muscles, I think commonly refered to as 'whiplash'. Never seen a luckier person than him. Has all these accidents and never injures himself. That damage is worth R37 000.00, the bakkie is worth only R46 000.00, they will want to write it off, but we obviously don't want that. The month of Feb is a bad month for us at Gravtech, last year our other little Opel Corsa was written off, in the month of February. It is crazy. Here is what happened - He had stopped at a red robot, a truck with a long trailor turned and cut into his side of the road, Andy hooted, or blew the Bantams horn, whatever, and the guy just carried on going, Andy had to reverse or else face definate injury. He reversed about 5 metres when he then, very obviously, hit another vehicle, and guess what, another truck. The truck infront of him then just missed him. The offending truck driver just drove off as if nothing had happened. All said and done, my son is fine and well, and for that I am greatfull. If we have a thing like a guardian angel, then Andy's works overtime.............. but we all know that it is God protecting him all the way.

Deck and Table

2009-02-11T07:44:00.000-08:00

My nice long table 'we' (Andrew) made. Seats 10 people nicely. We had a braai with some friends on Friday evening. Such fun. 'We' just have to make the chairs now.

The awning/gazebo/pergola, whatever you want to call it, that we put on the patio. Andy and Andrew fitted a sound system in the area now as well, independant from the house. Just have to finish it off. It is just so great.

Another view.

I am just so happy about the entertainment area now, we sit out there no matter the weather. Andy really helped 'us' with all this. At the back and on the the left side we have reed blinds that roll down for more sun block and privacy. I absolutely love it.

Christmas in Rustenburg

2009-01-17T11:34:00.000-08:00

We went to Rustenburg for Christmas, Ian and Lynn spoilt us terribly. What a host and hostess Ian and Lynn are. This was a first in 25 years and it will hopefully not be the last, the whole 'du Toit ' family together for Christmas. It was special, it was lovely to see Yolandi, Dominic, Johnathan and nice to meet Shaun. Well, all I can say, my family really enjoyed their Christmas - so to all the du Toit's in Rustenburg - Thank you very much.

Ian, Lorraine and Andrew - Chronologically in order.

Shaun, Johnathan, Dominic, Lynn and Ian - notice the food......

Grandpa, Granny, Lorraine, Chantal, Andy and Yolandi - eating.

Grandpa, Granny, Lorraine, and Chantal.

Dominic, Lynn, Ian and Andrew.

Andrew!!!!

Andy and Yolandi

Our very own ROBBIE WESSELS!!!!!
My babes, you just have to learn to shake like he does. You have the looks.

And we are eating some more.

Ahhhhh, my lovie, you have aged, no wonder you need a hat, just look at what you are hiding, but shucks, just look at me, still a spring chicken.

Our Christmas Blessing

2009-01-17T11:14:00.000-08:00

There is this family in our life, which I consider such a blessing, the most amazing people I know, we have the privilige of spending a fair amount of time with them even though we live about 600 km apart, and all I can say is that they are such an inspiration to me all the time. They are so wise, patient and loving - like every other family they have their trials and tribulations, but nothing seems to phase them, they dust themselves off, pick themselves up and get on with living, and living a good life, trying to improve themselves all the time. Striving for positives and avoiding the negatives. They spent the Sunday before Christmas with us, and here they are, the very special couple - the 'Gorrie's!

Kev, what can I say, just as amazing as the wife. One heck of a family!

My Cousin and best friend, Tracy - don't know another person like her, a simply amazing person.

Obviously not the Gorries, but Andrew and Ditto, what can I say.

Granny Trudy, Nanna's older sister (by 11 years) Tracy and Kevin. I love you guys!

Some December Photo's

2009-01-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

Amber and Charlene.

Sias and Amber in our pool. Amber just loves the water. She had so much fun.

Amber, Jessica and Chantal at the airport on the day Jessie went home. Jessie is as tall as Chantal!

Chantal and her friend at the KZN Youth Orchestra Carol's evening in December 2008. Jocelyn plays violin, and needless to say, Chantal the flute. It was a lovely evening and was very proud of Chantal playing at 1st flute.

The festive season

2009-01-13T04:07:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas news:

Firstly, Christmas was spent at Ian and Lynn's place in Rustenburg. We had so much fun, Lynn is an 'ala-natural' born hostess. We ate, sat and chatted, ate some more, and then guess what, we ate some more. I picked up 3 kg in the 4 days we were there, which I then had to lose again and fast ...............

For New years, we went to Kevin and Tracy in Southport, Andy Chantal, Darren and Claire went to Balito, they partied there till 05h30 in the morning, they had an absolute blast. They have now gone home, and we miss them terribly. Always enjoy having them around..................

On the 2nd, we went up to Brakpan to fetch Lorraine's furniture as she has a flat now and has moved into the flat, it is a nice little place. We hope Lorraine will be happy there.

Our home is now sporting a new look, we have put the framework up for a wooden pergola/gazebo, we just need the roofing sheets to go on top. What would I do without my handy husband? It looks so good.................

Chantal is sporting a short haircut, suits her, she looks really good. She is at Greystone in Escort, on a KZN Youth Orchestra camp for the week.

Andy is fine and well, working hard at work and home helping his Pa.

Hope you all had an absolutely lovely Christmas, and wish you all a very blessed and happy New Year.

Sorry it is all so late, but I will post the pictures in the next couple of days ......................

2008-12-03T05:15:00.000-08:00

This tree .........
fell into this house!!!!

Carol's tree in my garden, this is the smaller part of it.

Lorraine had been swimming just a few hours earlier!

2008-12-03T04:44:00.000-08:00

Well guys, just thought I will let you know, especially for the family in America, we are now getting your weather in the good old RSA. We had a tornado go through Amanzimtoti on Saturday, a very small one, but guess who's house was in the path of destruction. Ours! But then I will follow on Samantha's theme, and say this, I am awfully thankful that we have had no 'home' damage, not like our neighbours, I know now that our house is built solid. The roof is still doing what it should be doing, sheltering us. My room was soaked because my sliding door was open, for the American family, in South Africa, we open all the doors and windows that we can - no central heating here! Could not believe it. The neighbours tree fell into our garden at the bottom, and our tree fell into our other neighbors house on top. And that is how it went - a domino effect. I guess the damage that affects me most, is the gazebo ended up in the pool - so now I don't have shelter from the sun. Just waiting for our insurance to sort it out, so that I can replace it. It did not have a wide path of destruction but the path could be followed and the damage was severe. They say about 10 people died in KwaMakutha (the black neighbourhood) and sad to say, their homes are poorly built so the destruction there is bad. But as my Mom-in-law says, it was a first for her and she is 75 years old. So guys what is happening to our weather.

2008-11-14T02:05:00.000-08:00

Well, Andrew and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary on the 05th November. We all had such fun, the kids and I did all sorts of stuff on the sly, I stole some of Melissa and Sams ideas from Cindy's lingerie party. Firstly, they took a video of me answering all sorts of questions, because as the family knows, Andrew and I have a bit of pre-wedding history. Questions were asked, I answered. Lucky for us, Chantal bought her Pa a Harmonica for his birthday, and he is really a budding musician. He religiously practices till all hours. Absolutely loves it. So this gave us time to do all these things behind his back! I then scanned pictures starting from baby pictures through to the wedding, children, holidays etc up to now. Chantal, then made a slide show of it, she is really good, and put some music to it. Andrew and I had planned on going to some fancy restaurant but then it did not seem appropriate for all we had planned. Chantal then volunteered to cook us a mean supper, which she did, we sat at the dinning room table, she purchased plants for decor, etc and it was really very nice. Not just nice, but special nice. We then watched the slide show, Andrew really enjoyed that, and then came the video. I must say, we put him on the spot, and he knew almost all of the answers. Between the two of us, we had to answer 38 questions, and they were mostly right. It was fun. I really enjoyed it, I don't think it would have been that much fun if we had gone to some fancy restaurant, because the kids were with us, Lorraine was there, and we shared our special moments with the people who are really special to us. To Andy and Chantal, thank you for all the effort you put in. Chantal it took you the better part of the day for the food preparations, you spent so much time on the slide show, it was all done at difficult time, as you had exams, but somehow, you pulled it all together, it was lovely, delicious and fun, thank you. And so that puts another huge mile stone behind us. Now we are looking forward to our 50th Wedding anniversary.

2008-11-13T05:42:00.000-08:00

This photo was taken on the 08 August 2007 - The day of Chantals matric farewell and the day before Andy's 21st Birthday. Chantal looked absolutely stunning in something different and had a ball. We took Andy and a few of his friends to the Heritage Theatre for a meal and comedy show on his birthday. It was cool. This is such a lovely photo of my kids that I wanted to share it with you.

Andrews 48th Birthday celebrations

2008-11-03T05:31:00.000-08:00

On Friday evening, 31 st October 2008, we went to Primi Piatti in the Pavillion with friends to celebrate 'The Main Man that counts' birthday. Lorraine, Chantal, Andy, Janine W, Aunty Judy, Michael, Janine B, Riaan, Amelia and myself all had dinner together and had fun. As you can see, Andrew has shaved the beard off, we all have to get used to the new look again. After Primi the kids went home and the rest of us went to Aunty Judy's for "coffee", and only left there after 12 o'clock. Had a very lazy day on Saturday, and the family watched DVD's in the afternoon, and I crashed. Wednesday (5th) is our 25th wedding anniversary, looking forward to that.

Chantal and Lorraine

Janine W and Andy

Mom's 75th Birthday 3

2008-10-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

Ian, Lorraine and Andrew
The family (excluding Yolandi)
The Table - The glass window at the end is actually a shark tank.

Mom's 75th Birthday (2)

2008-10-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

Valmai and Andrew Janine and Andy

Dominique and Jonathan

Ian and Lynn

Chantal and Lorraine

Valmai in USA

2008-10-13T06:51:00.000-07:00

I went to Sacramento on the 27th July 2008 and returned on 14 August 2008.

Cindy got married on 02 August 2008 and I was thoroughly spoilt by George and Sharon, lets not forget the kids. My highlight was to see Melissa, Garreth, Sam and Cindy and of cause meet their husbands and girlfriend, and then the most precious of all, Melissa and Sam's kids. Got to spend a lot of time with Melissa, Dan, Katy and Sharon, as well as Garreth and Jessica, but unfortunately not so much time with Sam, Eric, Kami. Cindy and Rob were also very busy with pre-wedding arrangements and then they went on Honeymoon. After the beautiful wedding, George and Sharon took Mother and myself to LA, we went to the Kadak Theatre, Hollywood, Universal studios, went down Rodeo Drive, LA is just huge. Then we went to San Diego Zoo. The Zoo is huge. Really needed more than 1 day there, never got time to see everything. Went to the San Diego beach, and that is very different to the South African beaches. We have the greatest beaches here in South Africa, so we are really spoilt. Next we went to Las Vegas - all the glitz and glamour to behold. The strip is just amazing. Sharon and I went to an Ice show, which was totally amazing. We don't see things like that in South Africa. Andrew wanted me to gamble, so yes, I played 20 dollars in the slot machines - and lost it all. We then went down to Salt Lake City to Melissa and Dan's place and saw all the sights to be seen there, even bought Lemonade from children selling it in their front garden. Just so cute and also very tasty. Went back to Sacramento and then went to San Fransisco. The Golden Gate Bridge, saw Alcatraz, went for a ride in the cable car. We got very cold, but it was worth it. I just have to say, that I was spoilt rotten by Sharon and George and I just need to say - Thank you, it was just simply amazing.

Mom's 75th Birthday

2008-10-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

Mom's 75th Birthday

The family got together to celebrate Mom's 75th birthday at Cargo Hold, Ushaka World, Durban.

Ian, Lynn, Dominique and Jonathan came down from Rustenburg. We sat right next to the shark tank window, which was absolutely beautiful. Andy, Janine, Chantal and Lorraine also joined in the fun.