Sunday, March 24, 2013

A WALK UP THE MOUNTAIN TO VISIT KEVIN FOR COFFEE

We have this wonderful friend who lives in Constantia, South Africa, in a "heavenly" Tudor style home, perched on the side of Table Mountain, with sweeping views of Cape Town and surrounds.  An amazing cook and avid gardener, his large property is terraced with paths that meander through the heavily planted and informally landscaped property.  Walking up or down these pathways, you are surrounded by indigenous plants, a collection of Japanese Maples, fruit orchards, lavender, hydrangeas, roses - a tapestry of beauty and for anyone who loves plants and gardens, a little piece of heaven perched on the side of Constantia Nek.  My sister and I walked up Constantia Nek, in the Table Mountain National Park - on one of the pathways which is one of many hikes up the mountain, the back of Kev's property has a gate onto this pathway, so we got some good exercise and were then served with coffee and fresh croissants in his newly built "boma" alongside the swimming pool with the most exquisite views ever, way above the rooftop and chimney pots of the house.  A delicious lunch was then served on one of the patio areas alongside the house.  Thankfully, the walk back down to the car was a gentle stroll downhill.  Thanks Kev, always such a pleasure to see you and stop by your welcoming abode.

Heading up the mountain



Looking back across the valley


Another view looking across the winelands of the Constantia Valley



Swath of pine forest on the side of the mountain


Mountain streams along the walk

Arrived to try out the brand new "boma" Kevin just built right at the top of the property, and the stunning furniture he made, alongside the swimming pool.  

The view looking down from the "boma",  the rooftop of Kevin's house

The "boma", awaiting the coffee service.

The coffee emerges from the meandering pathway, served on a tray!!

The best service in the world - service with a smile.

From the pool deck, overlooking the valley - love the loungers!



A little bit of heaven on earth


Bees rolling around in one of the hundreds of highly scented roses

Kevin and I walked the pathways up and down the terraces, of course stopping to smell the stunning roses along the way





The lovely native Watsonia - an indigenous bulb




The exquisitely beautiful King Protea

Janine helping me to get a photo - gives perspective to the size

Pathway through lavender, watsonias and agapanthus

Where our amazing lunch with a chilled glass of white wine was served.



Rolling back down the pathway, just so beautiful



The end of a stunning day, THANKS KEV!!

Saturday, March 23, 2013

ODE AND ADIEU TO OLD MAN WINTER - View from a friend's house, Harbor Springs, Michigan - overlooking Lake Michigan