I can’t explain how many times yesterday I said, I am so happy here. It seemed to spill out of me without effort, as natural as breathing, as if something deep inside had been waiting for this exact moment to finally speak. Even through the fog of exhaustion from the long journey, that feeling never wavered. If anything, it grew stronger as the hours passed, gently reminding me why we travel such great distances to return to this place.
Yesterday afternoon, I finally surrendered to the fatigue that had been lingering since our arrival. I stretched out for what I assumed would be a short rest, only to awaken two and a half hours later. I can’t remember the last time I napped that long. I have never been much of a napper, often feeling restless or guilty for taking time to sleep during the day. But this time was different. My body clearly needed it, and when I opened my eyes, I felt renewed in a way that only deep, uninterrupted sleep can provide.
This morning, that same sense of restoration remains. I truly believe sleep is the magic elixir that helps soften the edges of jet lag. Just two days after arriving, and after taking my last antibiotic last night, I feel fantastic. It is almost as if my body and mind have mutually agreed that it is time to be fully present here, to let go of the strain of travel and simply exist in this beautiful place.
At only 7:00 this morning, I was already showered and dressed, and shortly later, I was seated at the table on the veranda. The air is cool and gentle, the kind of morning that feels like a gift. Tom was up early at 5:30, but he has since gone back to bed, hoping to catch a few more hours of sleep before we head to Komatipoort to grocery shop. He is a bit behind me in recovering from the illness and the long journey. I can see it in his eyes, that lingering tiredness that refuses to let go just yet. Even so, I know he will get there. This place has a way of healing, both quietly and steadily.
His fatigue didn’t stop us from going to Jabula last night. We decided to surprise Dawn and Leon, knowing they were not expecting us for a few more months. The look on their faces when they saw us walk in was something I will not soon forget. Their hugs were warm and genuine, filled with a sense of connection that time and distance never seem to diminish.
As the evening unfolded, more familiar faces arrived. One by one, locals we have come to know over the years greeted us with the same heartfelt enthusiasm. There is something so comforting about being welcomed back in this way, as if no time has passed at all. The conversations were lively and animated, filled with laughter, stories, and that easy camaraderie that comes from shared experiences in this unique place.
The food, as always, was delicious, and the ambiance could not have felt more inviting. There is a certain energy there that feels deeply rooted in Africa, something authentic and unpretentious that draws people together. We arrived at 5:00 in the evening and, as is our habit, left around 8:00, our bellies full and our hearts even fuller.
And now, this morning, I sit alone in the quiet, taking it all in. The weather is perfect, cool, dry, and bright with sunshine. There is a stillness here that invites reflection, a gentle reminder to slow down and simply be. I find myself immersed in a quiet contemplation of what feels like my version of paradise.
After the challenges of illness and the long journey to get here, this moment feels especially meaningful. There is a sense of healing that goes beyond the physical, something deeper that touches the soul. I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude, not only for being here, but for the ability to fully appreciate it.
In this peaceful setting, with nothing more than the sounds of nature and animals rustling among the vegetation surrounding me, I am reminded once again why we come back. It is not just the place itself, but the feeling it evokes. A sense of peace, of belonging, and of joy that is difficult to put into words, yet impossible not to feel.
Thanks to all our readers worldwide for standing by us as we navigated some challenging times and for being here with us now. We feel your presence every step of the way.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, June 13, 2016:
