Tulbagh and Jens Garden...

While Our Rose was out of the water we took the opportunity to go to the charming historical town of Talbagh, in the winelands of the Boland about 120km from Cape Town.  The valley was first discovered by European settlers in 1658 - with beautiful Cape Dutch architecture.  The is a place we went to for wine tasting, it also has the most beautiful church on the property, set amongst the vines

We stayed at a lovely place called "Vindoux" Tree Houses.  We had a lovely "Braii (BBQ) one night, which was given to us in this lovely hamper  - heres the master at work, along with the very friendly little doggie, who we found was very receptive to cupboard love (left overs!)

 On our way back to Our Rose, we went and collected our plants from Bridget whom I had hunted down www.herb-nursery.co.za  She is such a ball of energy and was so helpful (also introducing us to some great comedy!)  She will definatly visit for a wine or two before we leave and maybe somewhere in the world also...
So, when we arrived back to Our Rose, who was waiting for us back at the V & A Waterfront, with her bottom all fresh and fixed, it was time to start planting.  We had just unloaded the plants onto the dock (with quite a few un-usual glances from people), when a couple came up to us, and in the most unmistakable "Kiwi" accent said "so where in NZ are you from" - lovely to meet others from home.  Brian and Jill have been cruising for 7 years or so.  Needless to say, we offered them a wine (or two) and I proceeded to start gardening...

We had a lovely time chatting and drinking while I kept getting the hands into the soil and planting - It felt fantastic!
The next day, Friday, Rudi arrived - our watermaker was commissioned, it is producing more than 144 litres an hour - yahooooooo.  Joe from North Sails arrived, along with Mark, Neil, Rudi and ourselves, went out to test the sails - from full sail, reducing gradually to third reef.  Perfect day to be doing this as it was blowing, and pouring with rain!
Then, when we arrived back, Rudi's son Chris met us at the dock and he had the Pajero loaded with our things we had sent from New Zealand.  The plastic has come off the upholstery and we are now unpacking, surrounding ourselves with "home"...

The next update will have the interior photos!