When Louise informed us that it was safe to go to Malalane on the N4 Highway, with no road closures due to protests, we left the house at 10:00 am, arriving at Dr. Singh’s office at 10:45. I was hesitant about the appointment since I tend to suffer from “dental phobia.”
We got comfortable on the plush furniture in his newly expanded and tastefully designed office waiting area, busying ourselves with our phones. I don’t mind cleaning my teeth, but I dread the prospect of Dr. Singh finding anything wrong that would require future treatment, such as having teeth pulled, root canals, or needing crowns or implants.
Tom encouraged me to go first, and minutes later, I was escorted down the long hallway to the treatment room he usually uses. Moments later, Dr. Singh entered the room, and for the first time, he wasn’t wearing PPE, which I commented on. We chatted a little, and he began the thorough cleaning, which took about 30 minutes.
After the cleaning, he informed me that everything in my mouth looked healthy and that I didn’t require X-rays or further treatment. Tom had a similar experience. It had been over two years since we had our teeth cleaned, and we were both thrilled to discover that our frequent brushing and flossing had paid off.
The bill for both of us was totaled ZAR 1928.60, US $106.07. The average cost per person in Nevada, our home state in the US, is between ZAR 31779.85, US $175, and ZAR 5084.41, US $280. Everything seems to cost less here in South Africa.
It took about 30 minutes to return on the N4 from Malalane to Marloth Park. I was looking forward to returning to the house to continue preparing for our dinner guests, including food prep, setting the table on the veranda, and reducing a little clutter in the lounge and dining rooms.
We buzzed around the house, and in a short time, everything was in order, even allowing time to rest in the bedroom after another fitful night’s sleep. I rarely can nap during the day. Since we arrived almost four weeks ago, I’d yet to sleep through the night. I am currently tapering off Prednisone for allergies, which is known to cause insomnia. I will take the last tablet on Sunday night.
Much to my delight, I slept until 5:30 am and fell back to sleep for another hour, getting up refreshed and ready to tackle another day.
As for last night with Kathy and Don and her sister Connie, we had a wonderful evening, enjoying their friendship, along with lively conversation, and a simple dinner that included the following:
- Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin on the braai
- Baked potatoes with sour cream and chives
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh green beans
- Greek salad with homemade Greek yogurt and sour cream dressing
- Homemade keto lemon poppyseed muffins
This menu was easy to make, with only a few more items than Tom and I would have for a usual dinner. Of course, Tom finished the dishes after everyone had left, and then I headed to the bedroom. There’s no dishwasher here, which is uncommon in the bush. We all decided to meet for dinner at Jabula on Saturday night. We’re happy to be able to spend this quality time with our dear friends since they’ll be returning to the US at the beginning of May.
Tonight, we’re going to Jabula as we do each Friday night, and we look forward to more socializing!
Oops! Gotta go. Norman’s here!
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, March 28, 2015:
Sounds like a wonderful dinner! Can you please share your salad dressing recipe ?
Thanks,
Pam
Houston, Texas
Pam, I will post the recipe on today’s post. Thanks for writing.
Much love,
Jess & Tom