Spit or Swallow

That is the question, not on an empty stomach. Well, I don’t know about that. Choices were limited; there was no place to hide. I dashed to the kitchen in a mess, trying to keep my composure. 'Manners maketh man' echoed in my mind as I heaved and clenched my jaw. I just put my head down and swallowed-awful, but I managed to keep it together. I've had similar moments-once I swallowed because there was no spittoon, and another time I dribbled all over my pretty dress.

Last Friday evening, my charming host served salt with the coffee instead of sugar; I had two spoonfuls and only realised once I’d taken a huge gulp. The first time I swallowed was from inexperience, at a wine tasting, and Xylocaine administered by the dentist renders me incapable of swishing and spitting after treatment. The bad taste in my mouth lingered well after a good floss, brush, and flush! 

To be a sport on April Fools’ Day last year, I shared my dream: “After much thought and many sleepless nights, Precious and I have realised life is short; therefore, we're going to sell everything we own, buy a camper van of our dreams and hit the road into Africa. We're nervous but excited-think of us as we prepare for this life-changing adventure.”

The response to our idea was mostly positive; even the most unlikely friends said they'd do the same, though a few called us mad.   This made us think, and we’ve decided it’s something we’d both enjoy.   Our New Year's resolution is to find a vehicle. On Saturday morning, we set out for Somerset West to view a SAMIL truck used by the S.A. Defence Force, a real beast with wheels weighing 200 kg each. Imagine us in the middle of nowhere trying to fix that with our puncture kit!

 To alight the cab, I had to use a “hand-up”, and my arms let me down when they had to hoist me up the extra 50cm to get into the passenger seat.  

Although this vehicle is robust and could handle most challenges on a trans-Africa journey, it’s too intimidating for us, so we’ll keep looking for a more suitable Overlander that's equally tough but less daunting, helping us stay focused on our travel plans.

I must mention Oloff Bergh from Steyn’s 4X4 Centre in Somerset West, a charming gentleman who sacrificed his early-morning kitesurfing to open his factory for us.  He specialises in the renovation of Unimog and Samil vehicles, which he then leases to Film Companies (e.g., Homeland) and other companies, such as Eskom, that need highly robust vehicles for hard terrain.  Oloff is very passionate and knowledgeable about his vehicles and spots potential from a mile away.  He suggested we do a recce of the Overlander at Winelands 4X4, where we met Christine and Dewald, who gave us a grand tour and lots of good practical advice.

Two old homesteads have been converted into shops, cafes, and boutiques that surround a sun-dappled courtyard at Chelsea Village on Bright Street, making it a charming spot to browse and find unique goodies.

We enjoyed our morning coffee with friends, and I had the opportunity to catch up with my very best friend at Chelsea Décor and Gifts. Never again am I going to wear flannel pyjamas unless I’ve been back to peruse the beautiful sleepwear range featured there; I’m sure Tretchikoff would love his Balinese Lady lampshade! My wish list this year will include a couple of pieces of jewellery too. 

There’s a wonderful exhibition by local artist Jeanne Hendriks at Mulberry House, which has inspired me to elevate my own domain this year and explore local art more deeply.

I love the renovations to the building; your attention to detail confirms your dedication, commitment, and enthusiasm for what you all do to keep Bright Street alive.  You are the jewel in the crown!

The all-red Pomodoro restaurant was our destination for lunch. An unpretentious Trattoria serving delicious homemade Italian comfort food.  The menu is comprehensive, and all the usual suspects are featured.  I'm sure everyone will find their favourite Italian dish, be it Pasta, Pizza, Calzone, or Gnocchi.  Do not hesitate.    The portions are perfect, the flavours sublime, and the fresh homemade pasta al dente.  We agreed this was the tastiest, most moreish meal we'd had in ages. (I could've licked my bowl. Locals must love it, as this is food from the heart.   There's a Takeaway Menu too.   Service was great, we loved the two gentlemen chatting in Italian while tapping away on their laptops.

On Tuesday, I'll be making my Pomodoro-inspired Basil Pesto and digging out my Pasta machine, which has been in lockdown for a few months.

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CHELSEA VILLAGE:

CHELSEA DECOR & GIFTS

http://www.mulberryhouseinteriors.co.za/ 

POMODORO RESTAURANT

WINELANDS 4X4 CENTRE