My best friend of 40 years lost her husband suddenly on July 9th, I know for a fact that if the tables were turned, she would have been on the first flight to me to be a support during the toughest time. I, unfortunately, could not leave at that time, but I decided that I had to make the time for some time shortly no matter what. My Mom was turning eighty-six in late August and with two very important people in my life on top of my mind, I decided to book a last-minute ticket home just to be able to go spend quality time with these two humans. My sister thought it would be best to surprise my mom, which we now know was not the best decision, at that age surprises are not easily processed. She did pretty well though after the shock wore off and we spend three glorious days at Jan Harmsgat Country House, enjoying fabulous foods, 5-star service, sharing laughs, and just being.
Then Marie-Louise and I embarked on a proper girls’ road trip into the Karoo! The first stop was Matjiesfontein, a very historic town, where history is preserved and boy did our accommodations reflect that?! Our spot for the night stated Museum after its name and coming from living in the USA for 25 years, not having central heating in the midst of a Karoo Winter – thank goodness my sister packed me a hot water bottle for this road trip. We had a lovely dinner in the colonial dining room of the Lord Milner Hotel, it was definitely like stepping back in time – reminded me of the days when I was little and we would dine at the local hotel dining room with silver service waitressing, polished silver and everyone wearing their Sunday’s best. A bygone era but it was delightful to experience it again.
The next day we drove to our final destination of Bloemhof Karoo guesthouse outside of the town of Richmond, located on the farm once owned by Prof. Christiaan Barnard. A beautiful homestead with a wraparound porch. The staff took great care of us and made sure that the fireplaces were going from early to late, pots of hot tea were delivered on time, homemade delicious Karoo meals showed up in our private dining area and we were able to relax, chat, and just Be. I, unfortunately, came down with a horrible upper airway infection so we had to cut our trip short. Marie-Louise took great care of me and made sure I saw a doctor the moment we arrived back in Stellenbosch. I was not able to make plans to see anyone else during this trip, but it was Ok because I was able to fulfill the journey I set out to do during this time.
Life is short, Make time for your friends and loved ones, especially when they need you during a challenging time, don’t ask if you can visit, Just Do It! My heart is full and I am so grateful that I was able to be there for two very special humans.