Sunday, August 3, 2008

Retreat from heat!

My apologies for the lack of postings lately.....I've received some complaints, which is very gratifying as it means that this blog is actually being read!

Information about the UAE has been lacking for a very good reason – the Bergesen's (mum and kids) have left (abandoning dad) for a quick holiday (only 10 weeks!!), and we are wintering in South Africa. This may sound strange, to flee a summer in order to endure a winter, but only if you've never experienced a summer in UAE and a winter in SA. Summer in Abu Dhabi is hot, damn hot - 45 to 50+ deg C during the day and 'down' to 35 deg C overnight and all this at 90% humidity! Whereas, winter in Jo'burg consists of fresh, chilly nights, even down to Zero degrees at times, but beautiful sunny days, which warm up to late teens or early twenties. There is little or no rain, just blue skies and still days…sounds tough, doesn't it! In fact, winter here is so grueling that the kids were water skiing on the Vaal Dam last weekend. OK, it was too cold for me to strip off, but I've not got Scottish blood (as the kids remind me they have).

We have had a super holiday so far, the highlight for me has been sharing the childcare with the grandparents, aunts and uncles – all very keen to have time with these seldom seen brats. I had forgotten what it's like to be able to go somewhere without having to drag a plethora of kids with me! The boys attended school for a couple of days with their cousins, and enjoyed it immensely, especially the part where they got to stroke a cheetah and learn all about it. Next week we are on the hunt for more game for them to admire, I'm hoping for many giraffe and no lion!

Last week we joined in with a school trip (different cousins!) to the Voortrekker Monument and had a ride in an ox wagon – terrific. The Monument was erected in memory of the Voortrekkers (front runners) who traveled inland from the Cape in the 1800s, into totally wild country, inhabited only by numerous warring tribes. Their adventures were unbelievable, and the stamina awesome. I think the kids learnt a lot about South African history that day, and gained some respect for the men and women who tamed this wild country.

We have got some trips to games reserves and other places of interest - watch this space, I'll try and post again before we get back to hot & humid AD! (PS - will also post some photos on my return home).

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