Live freely, move graciously, breath deeply, love everything!
Wednesday afternoon in Cape Town Market is filled with vitality. From the local vendors offering exquisite African bags, clothing, jewelry and gifts, to the local passer-byes, to the noticeable tourists, the city breaths deeply with life. You never know quite what to expect here. This city is filled with foreigners, locals, expats and straglers. Most of which are either here to experience this wonderous city, or have had their heart stolen by it’s unique beauty and are now here to stay until the next adventure beckons. Not only do the people come in such a variety pack, so does the mood. With the water and mountains so close, the weather goes from frosty rain, to bright, sunny, golden lovelyness (yes it’s a word) within 5 minutes. You may have decided on a mood and a song to listen to, but with this atmosphere your ipod is on a power hour.. It’s an excellent challenge, especially for those unfamiliar to abrupt change.
One challenge that I face, as most foreigners do, is a language barrier. “Pardon?” has become one of my most frequent daily-used words. People here are kind to foreigners — whether it be from intrigue or to make a sale, but at the end of the day people want to help and make you feel welcome.
It’s been quite a journey so far. I’m still getting used to this country. It comes with so much character. Every individual has a great story to tell.. It’s worth it to get to know everyone that crosses my path as best I can.
And now as a I sit here at VidaeCafe in Cape Town Market Square writing to my virtual captive audience, I feel like less of a tourist and more like a child of our beautiful Mother Earth. This is home and these are my people too.
One love, Queen of the North
One Festival
11-11-11
Mpumbalanga
Together we unite under one sun, on one earth, with one common love.
After a 26 hour day of traveling from Canada, I finally arrived in Joburg. The earth we landed on felt different. It had the same sturdiness and security, but felt more raw - more real - more natural.
Going from the airport to Karlye’s humble abode in Mellville at the Sleepy Gecko was my first unforgettable African road trip. The vast scenery displayed a multitude of colors. From the vibrant fuschia and violet trees to the red earth were all infused with an intense energy from the almighty sun. I’ve never seen a sun so big. She is the Goddess of the sky and has relentlessly provided her empowering energy high in the sky everyday since I’ve been here.
After a quick shower at The Gecko Karlye and I headed to 6 - A bar she works at 3 days a week. 6 soon became my second home. Amazing people..
Karlye and I didn’t waste anytime exploring the city. From Soweto, to the Lion Park, to Diepsloot, to the inner city, to Hillbrow and back to Mellville.. It’s safe to say we’ve explored. One thing remains, the people of this country have SO much love to give. Truly amazing souls.
Going to Africa tomorrow!! It’s been great seeing the German fam. Lot’s of beer, yelling and food (abundant chocolate). But most important of all, Nana makes paralyzing beds.. The moment you touch your bed you fall into REM. Literally.
So.. 6am flight to Dulles means leaving Nana and Opis at 3am tomorrow morning. Of course one last stop at Tim Hortons will put us on track for a fabulous day. And one last road trip with Faja to the Toronto airport! I wonder what obscure topic we’ll talk about tomorrow. I guess we’ll have to wait and see.
Your majesty, QoN.
I should be packing… but Ellen says procrastinate now! Don’t wait…
Alas. Here I am, blogging to you, my virtual audience..
Tomorrow Dad, Mom and I pile in the car and drive to Toronto where each of us is going to split up and meet with our friends. Although it’s about a 5 hour drive from Ottawa, the trip should fly by because Mom has promised to print out the lyrics to the musical Chess so she can “practice” before the show on Saturday night. Goody.
I sure am going to miss this house.. Even though I haven’t been technically working since I’ve been home, I’d hardly call it unemployment. Someone has to do arts and crafts, play chess, help Mom grocery shop, and most importantly of all, play with the kitten. I like it here, things are pretty simple for the most part. We each play our role in the family..
Mom of course is our 5 star chef. You request she will make it better than you could have ever imagined it..
Dad is Mr.Treats.. whether your an animal, friend or family member, he’s always got something up his sleeve.. an applefritter, temptations.. and he can make any vegetarian go carnivore with his chicken wings.. I think there is crack sprinkled on them..
Nick is the reigning chess champ.. but not for long.. he thinks I’m going to Africa to see the world and spread peace.. but it’s really to master my chess game.. Nick plays a crucial role in our family.. if it wasn’t for him all the leftovers and yogurts would go to waste. Thanks Nikka.
Gooey. Is. The. Shit. ….She carries the team hard… Not much else we can say. She is the brains, the looks, the swag, and the wisdom. She observes, but when she speaks you listen.. cuz she’s always right. She inspires all of us. And she’ll always be super cute.
And me, well, I’d say I’m a healthy mix of all of the above. And I’m glad I have a family so I can try new things.. such as skateboarding (thanks for being my spotter Goo), making songs on garage band (Nick always has some very gentle criticism), practicing the djembe (Dad let me practice for a whole 10 seconds the other day), orrr picking all the places and professions I’m going to be when I grow up (and Mom entertains EVERY idea).
Love fam. It’s been a slice.. See you post Africa! <3 xo
Good morning…
Mother’s delicious Plum Cake.
Guacamole Salad.
Dad complains that there is too much food in his beer fridge.. Life is rough.
L <3 V E it.
