Author Archives: mcharlottesmith

As I reflected on my life to date, I wanted to share some memories of my life so far. The startI was born and grew up in Bronkhorstpruit, in what was known back then as the Transvaal province of South Africa. We lived in a small town and my parents had some pretty cool friendsContinue reading “A walk through Memory Lane”

Although the last couple of posts were about our wonderful wedding, the celebrations continued as I reached a milestone birthday. Yes dear reader, I have reached the ripe age of 40! I had many ideas for celebrations, and inspiration from many friends, but in the end I asked Marinus for a birthday trip somewhere. HeContinue reading “Celebrations continued”

Not everyone has 2 weddings, but due to some admin challenges and having family across 2 continentes, we followed up our official ceremony with a church wedding and celebration in South Africa.  Venue hunting was done by proxy through trusted family and we came across the gorgeous venue in Riebeek Kasteel that provided everything weContinue reading “So nice! We did it twice”

A year and a day ago, I got married officially to the love of my life. The official ceremony (and paperwork) took place in our hometown, in Alkmaar, and afterwards we had a celeration with the close family and friends. We were really lucky that my parents could come all the way from SA asContinue reading “A year and a day”

As I was dipping my fries in the bearnaise sauce I was wondering whether to write a blog about food or expat life, and then I chose the letter. I’m on a few expat forums on social media, mostly because when I arrived in the Netherlands it was a valuable resource. Now I try toContinue reading “Expat life”

After nearly 2 years, we are learning to live with Corona in our presence. We’ve been vaccinated, vaccinated again and boosted. Despite the pandemic I’ve been blessed. I made a new life for myself in a new country. I’ve made new friends. Fell in love. Moved to a new city:Den Haag. Adopted a dog. DevelopedContinue reading “Life in the time of Corona – Captain’s log: The End”

After an amazing visit to the country of my birth, we touched down in the country I now call home. We are thankful for all the good memories Be kind. Stay safe

Our return to Pretoria was mostly about family time and getting ready for the trip back. But I did manage to hear the sound of my childhood… The ice cream van! Be kind. Stay safe

We concluded our visit to the coast with a seafood buffet at the famous Vette Mossel in the Groot Brak area. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience and definitely worth a visit. Come hungry. Be kind. Stay safe

Knysna! The town always fascinated me, with every visit holding something special. We started with breakfast at 34 degrees South Our next stop will forever be a highlight. We had the privilege of an elephant interaction at Knysna Elephant Park. They rehabilitate elephants that require it, and visitors are allowed to interact with them underContinue reading “Life in the time of Corona – Captain’s log: Day 661”