November
Old fashioned letter to family and friends
Dearest family and friends
Kirsty is in bed and the dishes are done. I still have some ironing to do but decided to sit down and write to you all.
It was so good to talk to some of you, to hear your voice and be part of everything life presents you. It is encouraging to learn how you deal with that life-threatening illness; we smiled at how much you enjoy your grandchildren visiting; thank you for sharing the beautiful image of a sunset; learn about your exams and that you have passed! We had a giggle about your struggles with technology and all your travel experiences.
My birthday was celebrated by having a meal with the family and guess what? I had to cook!!! My gift was a ‘drill’… a cookbook. Maybe I’m not getting the message? At least we sipped from a golden cup and celebrated harder. I’m talking about the Rugby World Cup which we won in Japan, of cause. Just like that rugby match, we are playing our own game – hard, messy, victorious at times and hoping to finish well. Eighteen years ago, we arrived in Belgium. It was hard but we are still counting our blessings.
Wim was in Spain for a week to share with students about our journey of discovering the Father’s love – so different to what we think or believe. He loves Spain as it reminds him of South Africa in so many ways.
He also still enjoys his counselling training although he is seeing less clients, he has to, because the weariness does not leave while pushing through. He did a hard thing to cancel a trip to Lithuania, but it was necessary. Kirsty had respite care for this time. I felt guilty to have her stay with her friends at the centre for a few days while we were just at home… Is this what ‘normal’ feels like?
Ellen, (my dear friend) and I had a fun day in Leuven (a neighbouring university city), lingering and browsing in quint and quirky little shops. Wim would possibly have managed two shops with me. That is why I have my own friends, like Ellen!
Kirsty was also her talkative self with the magistrate at the court in Leuven. It was all about us becoming her lawful representatives as she is now a mature young lady/girl/our Dolla/still our baby who charms with her simplicity, ten recognisable sounds and no signature.
There was a request for the coming festive season. Wim’s offer was accepted and mine denied – something like the story of Kain and Able from the Bible. Mine wasn’t acceptable because I was in South Africa in the last 6 months. They struggled a bit with Wim’s because he travels extensively, posing a risk. But then eventually they took the blood he donated. I was offered coffee and a biscuit.
It is rather late…
Thank you so much for your love and encouragement. We love and miss you. Hoping to hear from you soon unless the postman loses our letters like he did with our parcel from South Africa.
Keep well. Hugs and kisses,
Wim, Amanda and Kirsty
P.S. We are still trusting with you all for the much, needed rain.
