We're just back from Jos's 80th birthday party in Greytown. Oncle Albrecht & Tante Wietske came down for the weekend, as well as all the Kistner first cousins. It was great catching up with everyone again. We all stayed at a very rustic farm B&B. However, it wouldn't have been a Kistner weekend away without a few challenges - the first being the lack of soap on the premises; the second being the shortage of red wine (both sorted by a trip to the shops); and the third being the sleeping and ablution facilities. Our bedroom didn't have an ensuite bathroom. Or even a bathroom in the house. We had to go to the toilet on the veranda! A strange place to put a bathroom...but at least it had a nice view..... The sleeping arrangements were a different matter. Let's just say that my bed wasn't that comfortable. Getting into bed sounded a bit like I imagine the Titanic sounded shortly before it sank....screeching metal followed by the sound of low groans. Luckily Hermann took pity on me and swapped for the 2nd night so that I could get at least a little sleep.
Neverthless, being in the sticks had its advantages. Anya & Luca were just loving being in the countryside and seeing all the animals, despite Luca getting bitten on the nose by a goose. The kids had loads of space to run around - inside and out. It was just a pity that the weather was horrible - cold rain and mist for the whole weekend.
On Saturday we visited some steam engines, then the Hermannsberg Schule & Museum for a spot of reminiscing. Then it was back to the farm for Jos's party.
Preparing for the weekend was a mammoth effort. Hermann and Tinus manned the bar like they were made for the job. Gitty decorated the hall beautifully. And we all chipped in to prepare the food and clean up afterwards. No-one went home hungry! We slightly overestimated the amount of food (and drink) required for 30 people - resulting in a mini KZN potato salad and trifle mountain... any suggestions on how to dispose of 11kgs of home made potato salad will be gratefully received. In the meantime, we know what we will be having for lunch this week...
It was a cracking weekend, despite having to cram all our luggage, and the kids, into the Hyundai Atos on loan from the garage. Our car is still in the garage waiting for a new handbrake! All I can say is that if I ever want to drive with my knees directly under my chin, then I know exactly which car to choose!
There's no photos for this blog, as I spent the weekend videoing the proceedings instead. It was great - meant that I didn't have to feature in any photos or videos until Georg got hold of the camera. But just remember - I have editing rights!!!!
Until then (editing with minimal skill takes some time)...
Happy Birthday Opa! We love you! We hope you had a fantastic weekend! Anya sends you her best big hug and kiss! And, I can't wait to get my hands on all that dodgy video.
PROST PROST PROST!!!!!
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