Travelling in South Africa

Evening sky

Some images of this beautiful country...

These were taken last Friday soon after my arrival in South Africa on the drive from the airport to Potchefstroom in North West Province. Love seeing this familiar countryside again.

 

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Nelson Mandela - an icon for South Africa and the world

During the night the sad news came that the people of South Africa and indeed the world have been expecting for some time - the passing of our hero Nelson Mandela - Madiba - Tata - father. It is especially poignant for this to happen while I am visiting from Australia.

As I move around the country visiting family, and as I experience the bustle, the crowds, the chaotic traffic, the warmth of the people it's as though I haven't been away.

As the country mourns the loss of a special man, a man without equal, our thoughts and prayers go to his family. May his legacy of love for all people and his enduring wish for peace be a lasting gift to the country and the world.

Rest in Peace Madiba.

 

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The Return Visit

It’s three years since I set off from South Africa to settle here in Brisbane, Australia, and what eventful years they have been...

Pink Roses with Mirrors - oil on canvas 610 mm x 915 mm ©2013 Carol Lee Beckx

There were times, especially in the early days, when I questioned my sanity and doubted my decision to bid farewell to the familiar and the comfortable for an uncertain future. 
My grandson, with the wisdom of the young, asked me, just before I left, what I was going to do in Australia. I replied that I planned to be an artist and to teach art. He was voicing the question many were not asking.

He said to me " What if that doesn't work,Gran?"
At a loss for words, I most likely said something along the lines of "I'll have to think of Plan B."

However, Australia has been really good to me and there's been no need for alternate plans. The people have opened their hearts to me and given me work - students have attended my classes and workshops, offering friendship as well as their attendance at my classes - helps  keep the wolf from the door; clients have trusted me with their special commissions and others have loved and bought my paintings.

Thank you.

As you read this I will be on a plane to returning for my first visit back to South Africa - and I can’t wait. I am so excited to see my family and my friends, who have been on my mind and in my heart since I left.  

2nd December 2013 - the post didn't publish as planned...so better late than never...