Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

A magnificent Shona sculpture in the gardens at Kirstenbosch

A charming mixture of calla lillies and Restico grasses

Strelitzia; deserving their striking position.

A cactus of 'I dont know what' variety

Another Shona sculpture.

Proteas in their glory.

Do take a look at my other blog www.hyronslanding.blogspot.com for photos of the famous cape daisies and proteas in full bloom. As well as over 7000 plant varieties there's art in both garden and galleries; many walks among the fynbos and a restaurant with great food when it eventually arrives. Unless management changes quickly better to pack your own picnic lunch or plan to eat elsewhere. What a great shame one of the best gardens in the world has one of the worst restaurants . Every other meal I have had in Cape Town has been exceptional both in quality, price and service, even at the airport.

We made it to the top.....

Kevin, Wendy, Tamsin and Tamsyn at the top of Table Mountain.

Lawrence had arranged a memorial service for Neville on the island at Junction Farm on this day. For anyone who knows us or has read my sister's book , Light on a Dark Canvas, you will understand how this challenge to climb the mountain was the best alternative to not being at the service in person.

For more information on how to get a copy of the book take a look at http://www.lightonadarkcanvas.blogspot.com/

or email me and I'll bring one back for you.

Getting to the top of Table Mountain

Getting to the top - longer than most people 3 hours 45 mins ! - where the views are worth every moment of agony to make it to the top.

Followed by those who have a death wish to abseil down .

Tamsyn and Kevin

Platteklip Gorge Climb up Table Mountain

Tamsyn patiently waits for Wendy and I to catch our breath. It's a 3000ft climb, not a hike. Really gets steep in parts and many many big steps. I'll never consider another CMLC hike as strenuous. Yes some 'scrambling' was called for ..Some of the precious flowers and restico grasses we saw on the way .

Tamsyn and Kevin make hiking sticks from previously felled invasive mimosa trees on Table Mountain for the older members of our family group.

Some Ericas along the way .

Proteas in all their glory

First Day in Cape Town

My niece Cheryl and son Russell, who had just come 2nd in the Heritage Swim at Granger Bay.

My fearless namesake at Chapman's Peak

Tamsyn and Buffin, welcoming their relaxation.

Oh to be in Cape Town again - The city, people, countryside and family are all sparkling.