Time To Say Totsiens

On Friday we said goodbye to a great man: a champion sportsman, legendary grandfather, exemplary husband, proud daddy and faithful Christian. We laid to rest our beloved Izak (Ikey) Geduld.


Gramps Ikey in his very first Argus Cycle Tour, over 20 years ago


His passing on 3rd June 2011 could not have come as a bigger shock. I realise that nothing can prepare us for death. Knowing that someone is ill or old may make it easier to digest, but it doesn't make it easier to deal with.

Having said that, knowing that Gramps has gone to be with Jesus in a place where he feels no pain, breathes effortlessly, and is able to cycle for hours on end does bring a measure of comfort. Thank God for sending Jesus to remove the finality and separation of death.

There are so many things we will remember, and even more that we will miss. Here are some of the memories shared at the funeral - just to mention a few.
- sharing Flanagans crisps and guava juice on the backseat of his Honda Ballad
- watching him flick his false teeth out, and then back in, in a quick snap
- hearing him call us the many names he used on us (including aapdrol and peophol)
- being held in one of his warm embraces
- listening to him sing
- having him comment on our latest work/sport/life development

Gramps Ikey, you will be sorely missed, but never forgotten! Until we meet again...

Terrific Two

Sunday 5th June marked the 2nd anniversary of Jorja Sarah du Plessis' birth.

I can't believe it has gone so fast. I remember, like it was yesterday, the downpour that Friday afternoon as I was driving home from work, when I received a text message from PJ, announcing with unbridled pride, the birth of his (nameless) daughter. I remember visiting Ash in hospital that same evening, and being introduced to this tiny beetroot-like baby with the big eyes (and rude hands). I remember the conversation Andel and I had in the car on the way home, when we thought for certain, that she looked just like a Jorja.

And yet, was there ever a time when Jorja wasn't part of our lives? She is such a big part of everything we do, I don't think we remember (or care) what we were doing before her. She's this explosion of love and affection, a wealth of knowledge and wit, and an eternal spring of energy!

Her birthday, although remembered in a time of much sadness, was a celebration of note. She had all her friends over, playing in the garden, and diving into the many delicious treats that were on offer while she readily added, "my daddy make this".

Jorja is growing into such a lovely little girl. Not only is she fully potty-trained (go Yaya!) and David Foster's biggest fan, she knows and can do so much.
Ash and PJ are doing a terrific job! It almost makes me feel a little broody...


Sleepy birthday girl catching 40 winks!


Cups and Cupcakes: made by Robyn and Ashleigh, from childhood memories we share


Jorja modelling the coat she got from Callum and Caitlin