The Ridge..... Coasting
As luck would have it, I bumped into a high school friend, who the invited me for a little reunion at the newly renovated Jack’s Corner. I didn’t know of this place prior, my first sense of the place was a composed wow, deep kind of like. Bear in mind that even though Richards bay may world renowned for its coal and aluminium trade, it’s still quite a dorpie, therefore a place like this is a two thumbs up in my books.
When you step in, I think the first thing that grabs your attention is the effortlessness that is the white and aqua blue decor which simply echoes tranquillity .Then you step outside and are captivated by the lake and sea view not forgetting that fresh breeze. It’s also very lush and we were informed by the chef that it hosts a great array of birdlife (for those you who like bird-watching).
When I came back for my “story” I got to see the lovely rooms as well, which are also under renovation as the restaurant side had also been. Jessica was very kind and let me in and told me about the history of the Ridge guesthouse. It proved my family's suspicion that this was once a family home, yes I convinced them to come here to... The David’s that were the first to build a house in that area, which is why the street the leads to the beach is called Davidson Lane and father's name was "Jack" hence Jacks's corner,.
So forget Mvubu lodge and the sort , and take a short right into the Ridge Guesthouse/Jacks corner, enquire about their economical weekends .
Check out their website; www.theridgeguesthouse.co.za
 |
| Davidson Lane. |
 |
| Jack's Corner Restuarant |
 |
| So.... David's wife was a pilot and had a great sense of style. I like her! |
 |
| I found this trail on my way home.... |
 |
| I dare you!!! |
Second Treasures
You find creative inspiration by being creative.
I found out about “second treasures” whilst shopping at my
own second treasures the “Zululand Hospice”, so I decided to check it out...
I was welcome by; a great after-school buzz of *pwetty little
ballerinas getting ready for ballet practice, some paint work, a garage full of
antique treasures and of course, a shabby sign that read “Tomorrow is never
promised, visit us today”. Actually, as I made my way to the shop I saw a
couple more, like "Mind your step" and Kids@Play :). These were sure
signs that I was on the right path, it felt a bit like a treasure-hunt.
When I turned the corner and saw the shop, I was pleasantly surprised.
It appeared as though there were loads more to be excited about.
I then officially got to meet Christie, the owner and
Creative Director of “Second Treasures” yummie-mummie... I must say.
The display set-up of the whole shop is quite something. The
items have been arranged in such a way that it gives the buyer perspective on
how they can make eco-chic work in their own home.
My venture into the next room where Christie shows me her beloved
piece, a hat and coat hanger, made from old knobs. The beauty of the piece is
the time taken to create it and the fact that none of the door knobs were new...
I love her creative spirit. My ultimate favourite piece was the cow skull that
had been painted blue, and set up as a jewellery hanger.
I could go one and one about these treasures and the
amazingly positive vibe that is this space. It’s not perfect and I like that.
One thing I'll take away from this particular experience is
how simply Christie summed up creativity and said that, “one idea leads to
another to another and another...” Creativity Breeds
I don’t know how it happened, but thank God it did. After having
seen the Second Treasure pictures there was a paradigm shift in mother’s mind
regarding my project, a good one ;) .
So, the next time you're in the North coast of Kwa-Zulu
Natal, pop by second treasures, you might just take home one or three of your
own eco-gems. If the North coast is too far, don’t despair. Check out her
website and your goodies will be posted to you.
 |
| Tomorrow is never promised, visit us today. |
 |
| Welcome!!! |
 |
| This is a bicycle wheel,I know right? |
 |
| Please give Christie all your enamels. |
 |
| This is where I shall hang my coats:) |
 |
| I just love this piece!!! |
 |
| "Always Kiss Me Goodnight" |
 |
| Fundamental building blocks. |
 |
| Christie's youngest daughter, her eyes nkos' yam'. |
 |
| Co-Sign!!! |
 |
| Now... if you've tasted my cooking, WELL. |
 |
| Gift Vouchers |
 |
| DO IT!!! But Remeber! |
Shopping for a cause
I’m an avid bargain seeker, whether it‘s Hospice, markets or downtown I am there, blame it on the ‘hand me downs”. On my journey it was very important to encompass all the aspects of what fashion means to me, suggesting that I had to go back home to share with you the lucky-packet that is Zululand hospice “ZH”.
Even before discovering “ZH” I’d always dressed in somewhat of an eccentric manner (thank you mother); although this is still the place I go to for those vintage and quality pieces.
I’m grateful to our church friend for introducing me to the store; as it’s become a tradition because my trip home is incomplete without a purchase from ZH. I’m offered such a great shopping experience there, because my mind automatically switches to “how I can make this work” mode. That for me is the splendour of style; taking a risk with an item and then experiencing that mood altering thrill as a result of accomplishing the desired “look”. An added bonus is that the rands spent aid in supporting Cancer, HIV/AIDS and other terminally ill patients that are sustained by the funds received from the Hospice. Credit goes to Irene and the ladies for running the show as graciously as they do.
Check out Irenes’c cool blog: achievinginstyle.blogspot.com
