Outdoor fun with the family was on the agenda last Sunday. It is winter here, but we’ve only seen a handful of really cold days. Sunday turned out to be a beautiful warm day and that just begs for some outdoor activity. It involved loads of adventure too — perfect for students on holiday.
Sure there is a story behind the story and it goes like this …
A while ago our eldest daughter, Bianca, can home with a mountain bike. It wasn’t too long or her sister followed suit. My family love spending time outdoors and that did it — Layne didn’t waste any time getting himself a bike and Daegan got one for his birthday last week. I’m the only one still considering my options, but the die is pretty much cast!
A very proud Layne with all the girls
Although we live in the city, there are quite a few nature reserves in close proximity. The closest being Groenkloof Nature reserve — a mere 15 minutes drive from home — where most of last Sunday was spent. For those who have bicycles, there are loads of tracks ranging in level of difficulty; for the more reserved bunch, hiking trails. The rest stay at the base and see to refreshments. A typical session lasts around 45 minutes and their return is marked by teasing, comparison of speed, moaning about wounds (yes!) and hunger pangs. Vast quantities of fruit and nuts are consumed before they set off again.
Illanka
Daegan, Layne & Illanka taking a break at the top. The zebra in the background wasn’t their only animal encounter. They also came across a giraffes, waterbuck and wildebeest in the reserve.
Daegan, waiting for the pack to catch up.
Zane & Bianca back at the base after round 1
Illanka getting a hug from mom (that’s me!); cellular phone in hand ready to add a few pictures on Facebook. Talk about (almost) live coverage
Riding makes you hungry and they arrive back in time for the braai - the South African version of a barbecue. Late afternoon arrived too soon and with that it was time to pack up.
Needless to say, the evening was spent nursing aching muscles and several scrapes. Too much adventure and fresh air sent them all off to bed rather early. But not before planning the next adventure…
