There’s one thing about Swellendam – it has hills. The one to the golf course is particularly gruelling! Today I took Mike to the golf course, went back home and a little while later decided it was such a nice morning for a walk. Mist hung over the mountains and it was cool and inviting. I left at 7-55am and headed back to the golf course, this time on foot. When I arrived at the top of the gruelling hill, I spotted the park run underway along a parallel track, so I joined in and ran part of the way along the park run route. But my plan was to run around the golf course. One thing I have not been blessed with is a good sense of direction. When I left the park run route, I didn’t realise we had passed the turn off that would take me round the golf course. I merrily ran on for another 500m before common sense dawned and I retraced my steps.
Another advantage of the treadmill: you can’t get lost! 
I ran/walked along a wonderful farm road, past a mournful calf and a few yapping dogs. It was quiet and peaceful.
It was amazing, walking to the sound of birdsong and my footfall.
#672 of my 1000 thanks is for the sound of my footfall on the road. It represented silence. It was so quiet, all I heard were the birds and the sound of my steps. I really appreciated it.
I passed more inquisitive onlookers – a furry husky dog dawdled up to the fence, hesitant to bark but keen to have a stare. A droopy eyed, floppy eared old spaniel galloped along the fence, joyfully pretending it was he who was out walking. He didn’t bark either.
I passed very few people. Those I did, greeted “Môre”. That’s how it’s done in these parts.
I got home an hour and a quarter later. It was only 8km, so clearly I wasn’t very fast. It was great to get some exercise.
Afterwards, I took a drive to the Berry Farm and bought some berries.
And I spent a couple of hours working. There was, of course, time to oggle over my granddaughter… 5 days old. Her hair seems to be getting lighter in places. When she’s awake she is looking more, trying to focus – she should be able to detect light and motion.
Such a cutie pie…so peaceful when she’s sleeping, but she has proven to have a fine pair of lungs!
Adrian and Stacey make a great parental unit. There is much strategising going on regarding how to get Elsie to sleep the longest at night. If there is a formula, they will find it! The idea of sleeping when the baby sleeps is always a good one. Elsie gave them four full hours of sleep last night, but woke up at 3am and only got to sleep at 9am. I’m enjoying every moment.
Tomorrow we return to Cape Town. I’m so grateful for this wonderful week. It will never be forgotten. We will come again next month. 🙂
Isaiah 40:1
“Comfort, yes comfort My people!” says Your God.
These are the days.
Keep the smile going.
God bless you.
In His Grip,
Helga xx 🙂