Travels. Theories. Thoughts.

My husband and I have just returned from the Alpha weekend away. I must be very honest and say that initially we were in two minds about attending Alpha as we've both been Christians for most of our lives and we understood Alpha to be all about the basics of Christianity. How wrong we were - it's that and sooooo much more! Yes, the lessons are all about the fundamental principles of Christianity and serve as a great reminder to those who have been Christians for many years. But it's also about answering tough questions, connecting with people, exploring the meaning of life...  The part that has really blown us away is the unexpected yet amazing relationships and friendships that have forged within our group.  Our group Facilitator (middle) had the awesome privilege of baptising two ladies in our group -- in the sea! How amazing! So if you're anything like the rest of us, regardless of where you are in your walk with God, you have questions... Alph

So we're making headway and the cottage is coming along nicely. We've painted it inside, moved in the furniture and have managed to get everything on the inside ready for guests. We're now busy painting the outside and working on the garden and fence. It certainly needs a complete make-over to create privacy and a space to relax, unwind from the hectic pressure of being at the beach all day { :) } and have a braai. I've been trawling through Pinterest for some inspiration (what did we do before Pinterest!!!). Here are my three favourite pics: We are now also looking at different types of fences to create more privacy and block off the view of the neighbours wooden hut! T he back garden which is in DESPERATE need of a make-over! So watch this space as we improve on the look of the Leigh's Cottage . Love Leigh xoxo

After living in our current home for over 2 years, my long-suffering husband has finally conceded to converting the "Granny flat" into a self catering unit!! I know all about the pros & cons of getting into this type of business as my Dad & step-mom run 2 self-catering cottages on their property. But the way I look at it: we're sitting on an income generator that's just sitting there, only being utilized when out-of-town family and friends are visiting! So now that the decision has been made, we've started the "prep" process which really only includes a lick of paint, cupboards to be emptied and furniture to be moved around! Choosing the colour palette has been the most fun so far. I'll post regular updates as the cottage starts taking shape. Leigh xoxo

The time has come. Trials are upon us, or more specifically, Trial examinations are upon Ashleigh-Jade and thousands of other Matric learners. After 14 years  (2 years kindergarten and 12 years of school) in the structured security of a school system, I'm finding it hard to believe that it is now time for my baby girl to put all that knowledge to the test in what is known nationally as Trials...  In the lead up to Trials, there have been countless countdowns, study timetables, healthy eating plans, vitamins swallowed, as well as stress attacks, pimple outbreaks, nerves on edge and everything else that goes with pre-exam stress...  So to encourage Ashleigh-Jade and all her school mates facing these dreaded Trial exams, I thought I'd put a few pointers together:  RIGHT BEFORE THE EXAM: Get a good night's sleep.   In my opinion, this is the golden rule by far! A rested brain will mean you can think more clearly, remember things more accurately, and describe things mo