Preparing for Rusticana: A Northern Cape sojourn and the pursuit of tranquillity.
As the year's end approaches, a palpable sense of anticipation mixes with the inevitable fatigue that accompanies the festive season. Our minds and bodies yearn for the restorative peace of a much-needed break. Yet, before fully succumbing to relaxation, a significant chapter awaits: our dedicated work on Rusticana, our cherished Northern Cape retreat, which we are diligently preparing for our future retirement.
Our upcoming journey is not merely a vacation; it is a vital working trip. The planning has been meticulous, culminating in a formidable collection of building materials, weighing in at nearly one metric ton. This essential cargo includes 400kg of premix concrete, vital timber for the septic slab form work, plumbing components for a new external tap, and 110mm PVC piping for the septic system. Further repairs require 60 litres of PVA for paint touch-ups and 160kg of building sand for detailed plastering work.
A major undertaking during this trip will be the careful removal of the colossal 400kg coal stove. This historic piece will be transported back to Cape Town for a complete, expert refurbishment by Elgato Artworks, ensuring its continued function and aesthetic contribution to Rusticana.
Beyond the physical labour, a crucial technological test is scheduled. We will be deploying and evaluating an industrial 4G/LTE Wireless Router. This assessment is a foundational step in establishing connectivity for a special, unannounced project currently "in the pipeline"—a development we look forward to sharing in subsequent updates.
The need for this respite is keenly felt by every member of our family. My wife deserves a comprehensive break after an intensely demanding professional year. Our daughter has earned a well-deserved reprieve, having navigated the rigours of her secondary education exams (NSC - National Senior Certificate). Likewise, our son requires downtime following a relentlessly busy year juggling three different jobs and extensive overtime commitments. For my part, the greatest source of replenishment is simply the presence of my family. When we are together, I find true rest and contentment.
With all logistics finalised and spirits high, it's "all systems go." We are poised for our Northern Cape adventure, scheduled to commence in the third week of December 2025, ready to labour, rest, and move one step closer to our retirement dream.
