I was asked today if i was “counting the days” now in regards to the end of our time here.
Hmmm not really. I have no reason to. It’s not like there is something definite at the end of it. We are plunging into the unknown and although this does not fill me with fear as it would others, I am not looking forward to it like one would count down the days to their next foreign holiday.
I stared at Phumeza today as she walked around the house with Asakhe on her back, gathering her things. There is still so much I don’t know about her. When we talk about her future and the things she hopes to do, I find myself simply well wishing, not really giving her any clear advice. I’m not really in a position to. She is incredible, and she has made such an impression on me, and Iona…(who brought me a blanket later today and asked me to put her on my back with it)
Iona has started sleeping on a bed recently. I want her to be able to sleep anywhere when we get back as I have no idea where we’re going to be. She does not always fall asleep straight after feeding and often I lay face to face wtih her as she tries to fall asleep. She just wants to talk so bad. She will mention every person she can think of and ask questions about where they are and if are sleeping or if they need towels. My heart melts as she looks me in the eyes, nose to nose, smiles, and says “hello!” in her sweet little voice.
I am also taking in the last moments of living on the blessed Reibeek street. The situation here is so un-reality, which is what I tell myself in order to prepare myself for what lies ahead. I love being able to just pop in and visit without arranging it a week in advance, getting in a car, or booking a flight. It’s a comfort being about to borrow eggs, borrow books from, share recipes with, and wander over to simply to check out what they’re making for supper.
It’s funny, I thought it was a South African thing…but I am coming to realize it’s very unique to a few families on our street. (our new neighbours across the road think we’re nuts)
We went to a lovely 21st birthday party last night of someone from the church. It was really a lovely affair and just a blessing being able to witness family and friends coming together to celebrate someone’s life. It’s funny in the states we sort of have big do’s at graduations, celebrating accomplishments. I like the idea of just celebrating the fact that someone simply is! It was almost like a wedding, but just about one person which is really sweet! It brought my thoughts back to my own preciuos daughter who asked me today:
“Nanu England?”
“yes, Iona is going to England”
“Fi England!!!”
“Yes, Fi is in England”
“Mommy England???”
yes, Mommy will be coming to Engand with you.
“Annie England?”
*sad sigh* “no…Annie staying in Africa.
It makes perfect sense to a 2 year old that everything and everyone you love you simply take with you on your own journey. How many times I’ve wished it were true!
