Yesterday, we got back from our trip to South Africa. We have been knocked sideways with jetlag. Awake at 2:30 am, we watched TV, napped and ate, prefering to stay in our comfy PJs for the rest of the day. And then we heard a horrible shout and cry from the basement. Jordan came up the stairs holding his arm. His wrist was limp and at a weird angle. Neither Warren ...

I was surprised to learn that 'coffee cake' in the USA is generally any type of cake that is eaten with coffee.  Where I'm from, coffee cake has the ingredient 'coffee' in it.  Both versions are fine by me, I mean - cake is cake after all. So here's the version with the caffeine brew as one of the ingredients.  The ingredients for the cake are: butter, eggs, flour, baking powder, ...

Brandy squares with afternoon coffee or for dessert after dinner.  Ingredients are flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, baking soda, water, salt, pecans and dates.  In a mixer, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.  Add the eggs and beat well until combined.  Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into the batter.  Add the nuts to the batter and stir.  Place the dates into a small bowl and pour the boiling water over the dates.  Sprinkle ...

We decided another game drive was in order and so 12 of us hopped into the "dassie" and off we went. There were no objections from the wildlife-crazy Warren.  The view of the farm from way up high.  A herd of curious kudu. You can learn more about them here.  We came across some weaver nests.  Warren has always been a bird lover and bird watcher and couldn't resist a closer look while I ...

We woke to freshly baked muffins and in our family, chocolate is served as a side on Christmas morning.  Breakfast on the patio. Perfect.  The big brother antagonized the little sister. It's part of the DNA of our family.  The Christmas tree had a few new presents under it (and on it) since last night.  We all gathered in the living room, my Dad opened the bible and once again read about the birth ...

It's Christmas. It's hot. It's Africa. When in Africa...braai! (BBQ) on Christmas Eve.   My brother got/earned/volunteered for the job of chef for this one.   Braai-ing is a skill. No gas fire here. The coals have to be just right.  This sausage is what many South Africans live on. It's called borewors. I make it from time to time.  Baby potatoes speared with rosemary.  Broccoli cheese.  And that's how it's done. Christmas dinner, enough for ...

Christmas Eve in Africa.  This is an African Christmas tree. Yes, we have the regular Christmas trees too but when you're at The Lodge, this is the best kind.  Simple decor.  The table on the deck was set. The food was ready and we had filled our plates.  The candles were lit and the table looked perfect.  And then my sister photobombed my picture. Ain't she purrrrty.  All 15 of us around the table. The Stone ...