Four More Sleeps

We're just four days from departure and spirits are not as high, but that has nothing to do with our travels. We're still filled with expectation and a little trepidation. A little adjustment to our itinerary and we should be able to share the highs and lows of Sunday's funeral ceremony along with fellow South Africans. My heart aches deeply.

However, I feel even more strongly about opening my Italian family's eyes to the wonder that is South Africa.

I've made up my mind about the care packages. As mentioned before, the purpose is to encourage them to visit our amazing country. I'll do the usual stuff, the mixed cd/usb, a few bottles of wine (minding all airport restrictions) and two beautiful books; Picturesque South Africa and South Africa, both by Sean Fraser. But something that really made me feel proud is the new Eat Out Magazine, an amazing showcase of all our best restaurants in a stunning magazine. I just have to add a couple of copies to these gift packages. I am happy for our country to be judged based on the contents of this edition!

In fact,after browsing the pages of my copy, I even had a moment of doubt about going so far away on holiday when there's so much to experience right here, on our doorstep. I haven't been to Cape Town since 2010, yes really, and I'm truly longing for a visit. I've gotten over it though, I live here and I have all this wonder all around me all the time.

I just have no idea what I'm getting the little ones now, an 8 year old little girl and a 6 year old little boy. The minions I'm dying to buy will be too much temptation for my children and I and too much bulk for my luggage. Plus, they have absolutely no connection to South Africa. Maybe I should gift wrap our copy of the children's edition of Long Walk to Freedom, a tiny gesture for someone so great in stature.

The Hungry Kitchen Slave