We were in the middle of winter when we took the trip down south, and so having rainy and windy days were inevitable. However, that did not affect our mood or the things that we wanted to do. We spent a lot of time doing things together, which was the whole point of our trip. We did have a couple of fine days where we took the chance to bring the boys outdoors. We went to a farm where they animals could be hand fed. The boys had an absolute ball there.

They were not afraid of the animals at all and were very eager to feed them. Calvin loved the rabbits and saved all the carrot sticks for them. He was busy looking out for them the moment his foot touched the feeding area. Athan, the little boy wanted to do whatever his brother was doing. He had no concept of fear yet and so he was game to touch and feed any animal. He did not even mind the pony’s moist lips touching the palms of his hands! Robin was holding him the whole time and encouraging him to feed and talk to the animals. Me, I’m the “scaredy cat” (self-confession). I never really liked to be too close to the animals and I always have a fear that they would bite or attack me. So, I gave my feeding packet to the boys and let them have all the fun! I am getting better these days, thanks to the husband, I am beginning to like dogs! (believe it or not).

The villa that we stayed in was nice and cosy, big enough to accommodate all of us. It had a log fire that has kept the place and us nice and warm. Thanks to Robin who has done a fantastic job in keeping the log fire burning while we were indoors. On rainy days when we could not go out much, the boys amuse themselves with self-invented games or with the blocks that we brought along. They were great during the trip, I have to say.

Robin brought them out for walks along the beach everyday (before the rain came). He played with them and spent so much time with us that, for a moment, I wasn’t used to it! Funny, you might think, but if you knew what his work schedule was like before this trip, I am sure you would think otherwise. I loved to see him get silly with the boys.

Unfortunately, Mr Athan fell sick on the second day of our trip. Well, he had a cold when we left, and then it became worse and he had fever. Thank God that the fever was not that high and we brought medication along (yes, we are well prepared!). He wasn’t too cranky and was holding up quite well. We could still do little day trips with him. The fever disappeared after 2 days, and that was the time when we had to leave for home.

We visited quite a number of tourist attractions and of course many many wineries. We have also stopped by a number of very beautiful picnic spots, one of which we almost forgo if not for Robin’s persistence. It was drizzling and cold and I did not think it was a good idea to have our lunch there mainly because of the boys (and also Athan’s condition). However, Robin insisted we should give it a chance — for the rain clouds to go away. I gave in and true enough the drizzle stopped after a while. We had lunch there and man…. I tell you, the scenery is really amazing. I have forgotten what it was called, but it was also a popular fishing spot. It had a beach and the place was quite rocky. What could be more beautiful than to enjoy a cup of hot tea after lunch with your husband and watching the kids play at such a picturesque location? I felt so blessed.

Calvin ran after the birds and was enjoying himself — just by running himself silly. I guess he really appreciated the break after long hours in the car. Poor boy.

I am sure Athan had a great time too, despite falling sick. I am so glad that he was still eating and happy when the fever set in. I have to admit I was quite worried about him as I was afraid that his fever might develop into something more serious. I am always worrying, said my husband. Well, that’s what being a mum is like, I guess. I could only relax when I saw that my little boy was getting better.

Here are my boys. Calvin has really grown up a lot during the past months. He is very tall for his age and his curiosity is growing by the day. Many people said that he is looking more and more like his father, whereas Athan looks like me! Anyway, you be the judge. I’m glad that we are home now, safe and sound. Thank God for the good time we had and for keeping us safe.