“Puppy’s had an accident in the lounge…is that an old newspaper?” asked my husband. I looked at Oprah. She beamed in her ochre-coloured top as she stood in front of Uluru. The American icon next to Australia’s natural icon. But she was needed somewhere else. A quick shove and she was face down and soaking…
I was browsing in a second-hand shop in Port Alfred when I spotted it. A rhino head. Beady eyes gleamed at me — it was a perfect specimen. I had to have it, for R30 it was a bargain. Very heavy but it just fitted into my large bag. “Why did you buy that? It’s…
During the World Cup, most flights in South Africa will be fully booked. A warning to tourists who don’t speak fluent English. Don’t — I repeat don’t — book seats next to the emergency exits. Move away from these exits, for the sake of soccer. I recently flew from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth. An air…
Subsequent to my blog “I want three wives!” I discovered a book titled Forty years among the Zulus. It was written in 1891 by Rev Josiah Tyler, a missionary in Natal. Here are his observations regarding polygamy at that time: “Polygamy presents a gigantic obstacle to the elevation of the Zulus. It has been well…
One hundred and fifty people were recently affected by someone who sprayed perfume in an office in Fort Worth, Texas. 34 people had to be taken to hospital. So it seems that perfume can be dangerous. I love perfume but the problem is it closes my chest (I’m asthmatic, but in denial). I’ve tried spaying…
Last night I saw Simon and Garfunkel live. Having recently seen them on TV, I wondered if the money paid would be worth it. Thinning grey hair, old faces … old men. But I’m pleased I attended. Their faces shone, their voices harmonised and the back-up band (including two South Africans) entertained us every minute…
Some problems are universal. And they follow you, even when you change continent. Take bladders, for instance. “All shoppers please note that due to a burst pipe all toilets in the complex are now closed,” echoed over the intercom in the large shopping mall this morning. Instant panic. I had planned my route meticulously and…
South Australians are warm people. Today I found them particularly warm and chatty. Perhaps the 70-year record temperature of 45,7 degrees has something to do with it. “Our air conditioner packed up,” someone shared, half smiling. “It’s too hot to eat — I’ve lost my appetite,” said another. Global warming, warned the television. Expect more…
I really miss my cats. I remember how Whiskers walked past me on my last visit. She looked up at her new mom, spoke to her (I think she asked what time supper was) and sauntered off. Not a backwards glance. Emotionally, I needed her more than she needed me. Most of my friends who…
All reports come to the same conclusion — music has a healing effect on both body and mind. What is important is that you listen to your favourite music, and that’s a personal choice. Music that produces “enjoyment” in the listener has a beneficial effect on blood vessel function. A local physiotherapist, Dr Frances le…
