Cape Town February 2018 part 1

Home, at last. Yes, it's still home, even though I live in England and am settled there. The heart knows best though. It's quite strange to realise and acknowledge that. So what is home? It's belonging, it's easy, it's effortless. It's a gut feeling. Can I live with a foot on either side of the world? I do. Whether it's a good thing remains to be seen. Let me show you what I love about it.

This is the street art on the outside wall of my house. I bought this house almost 20 years ago. When the kids were young we had quite an itinerant life, that was the nature of Richard's work, so as an adult, this is where I have lived longest. It's definitely home. 

Home is also all about friends and family. Kate, the one who lives on that side of the world. Care taker of all the animals - there are many. Skype rocks with laughter at least 3 times a week and WhatsApp supports the cat picture habit.

Nugget, who was Richard's dog, and Josh - who, despite winning at puppy training and being the sweetest boy, is a badly behaved hooligan. Nugget usually looks much woolier, but the meerkat look is the result of a summer haircut.

And this is all I'm going to say about the cats. They own the place.

I'll make an exception for Max. He's 18 years old. Still the boss. This was after a catnip episode.

Friends, burgers at Royale in Long Street. Helen behind the camera. If I look somewhat disengaged it was the bronchitis settling in - yes, on holiday, it's not right

The mountain, spectacular views at every turn.

We've had a long hard winter in the UK, so this sunshine! Blew my mind. It's still Atlantic so the water is cold. The way to get in is slowly, the body goes numb, and then it's glorious.

Occasionally you get to hang out with Penguins.

These two weren't bothered by us at all.

 Just to clarify, we were sitting there first and they approached us. Everyone is animal savvy and wouldn't touch them. Though this one seemed to be looking for a stroke.

Another well kept secret. If you're in Simonstown, look for the yellow umbrellas. The Sweetest Thing - a french patisserie, worthy of the name. Very seldom does a swim happen that doesn't end up here.

Then I had to admit defeat and go to bed for a couple of days.

Stay tuned ... for more family, friends, a spectacular art gallery and a party ...