day twenty six - my first time at a retreat

Galilee Centre is a sanctuary. This huge rambling house with rooms, dining areas, conference rooms and chapels all around. 30 Kotze people from four different countries all together (some of them have not seen each other for 24 years and it is a first time meeting of the three young ones of the new generation). 

We arrived at around 3 yesterday and by 6 everyone had arrived. We had some drinks followed by a meal and then some "family sharing time". Easier for some than others but it was a time to remember and tell stories of Theo, Helen and brother David (who died after Helen). Bedtime was at a reasonable hour for some of us but some of the cousins had catching up to do. The beauty of this place is that you can always find yourself a quiet corner (which I am doing now).

This morning we had breakfast and then took a walk around the labyrinth. This was quite an experience and this quiet time of walking had me feeling homesick for the second time. The first time was the other night at Stephen's home where he was singing along with his children and I just wished that my boys were with me. This morning the feeling of family and togetherness was very real and suddenly I wanted my mommy and my sister and my boys (and my brother and my nieces, friends and Alfie).

Our family is so different yet the ties that bind are just as real. All families are different. Whilst the Kotze family have been separated through the years and the family are rich in stories of the struggle they spend much time discussing the past and reminiscing. It hurts Michael a lot that he went through his childhood unaware of the unhappiness his younger brothers and sister experienced. So there are some deep and meaningful moments. Through all of this the newcomers to the group (me included) are made to feel a part of this warm and loving family.

So my family that are rarely apart (although Nic and Matthew are now away from home) and live within kilometers of each other in Cape Town don't really need to have organized reunions. HOWEVER, I really need to see my family when we get home on Sunday.  Not Sunday night (flight only arrives at 10) (be there Gareth) but Monday is a public holiday (to mark our return) and I can't wait. BONUS Nic is arriving in Cape Town before we do on Sunday. 

The bell for lunch has just rung, a photographer is arriving this afternoon, we are having swing dancing lessons this evening and I am sure the Canadian Kotze's will be making some music. Oh and Michael and I have to go into town to find the bottle store. I am having withdrawal symptoms from that Clamatoe drink. Going to try and bring some home. 

Good times!

Our room

View from upstairs

Another outdoor dining area

Tree planted in1860 by Prince Edward

Labyrinth walk

You will have to wait for Michael today.

Lots of love to you all

xx