A much needed 4 day weekend

Last week was just one of those weeks. Work was hectic, add in a quarter end, plus the fact we were having one of our bathrooms remodeled, winter officially arrived and my insomnia was so bad I barely got 2 hours sleep some nights. Not a great week to put it mildly.

By the end of Wednesday I was so drained that I had barely had time to remember we had a 4 day weekend planned. It had been so long since I’d taken any leave and I cannot say how much it was needed.

Thursday morning we set off early to the Overberg. We arrived at De Hoop Nature Reserve in time for breakfast at the stunning Fig Tree Restaurant.

We have visited many times and each time is such a treat. The views are so beautiful and the food is delicious. The staff are so friendly and welcoming and I felt relaxed the moment I sat down and enjoyed a cappuccino before their full English breakfast.

The morning was chilly but the fireplace made such a difference.

After breakfast we spent some time birding in and outside the Nature Reserve. We have often seen Vultures (in a distance) near a farm close by and we were so happy to spot them again! Hubby got some great photos (I cannot wait for him to download them so I can see these majestic birds again)! We made our way to Hermanus where we were staying the long weekend.

As our weekend unfolded and we soaked up time in nature I realised how much we needed this time to unwind. I hadn’t truly understood just how burnt out I was until I spent time offline and outdoors. Took the time to enjoy leisurely breakfasts that started with a cappuccino. Switched off my phone. Caught my breath.

I was so present and in the moment that I didn’t take a single photo of our breakfasts (or any meals!) I hardly took photos all weekend. Rarely posted or checked Insta. And as the days went by and were filled with visiting De Hoop, bird watching and relaxing in the afternoons and evenings in Hermanus - I felt superbly relaxed.

Each day felt like an adventure was around the corner.

In the evenings in Hermanus hubby made us amazing braai’s and one evening we went to get take out to enjoy in the car by the Old Harbour.

We visited the Overberg town of Napier and The Moerse Padstal which was featured on the South African show “In Die Sop” with Bertus Basson (a program about restaurants that are struggling and who get advice from a celeb Chef).

The restaurant and nursery is beautiful. The lemon meringue’s we bought and enjoyed with tea that evening were delicious! Looking forward to visiting again soon.

And you know what else happened this weekend? I got some sleep. Actual sleep. For hours.

I feel like a different person typing this. It is Sunday and quite frankly the Monday blues can bugger off because this weekend is going to stay with me for a very very long time.

One and only selfie from a stunning weekend.

xx