Day 16: Moment of calm

Braai is a fantastic South African word for bbq. It includes the act of cooking (braai master is a sacred – and respected – duty) but it also carries a strong nyance of coming together with friends and family around a fire.

Every time we have ever visited Cape Town Hayley and Craig (Stuart’s sister and brother-in-law) have hosted a family braai. Today was no exception. Great meat, family, hot sun, cold wine… it feels like we’re back home!

But with all that going on, it’s good to take a moment to yourself.

Day 15: Wild Ocean

Hermanus was windy today and the waves were majestic – and loud! It is almost hypnotic to watch them crash againsg the shore and seabirds fighting the wind (or hiding from it). 

The waves carry shells, pieces of coral and other interesting bits and pieces onto the shore. We had to limit both girls to four treasures per beach to ensure our clothes will still fit into the suitcases for the journey home.

A good day to get out of the hospital.

Day 11: Silence in the air

Finland to South Africa is a long journey. You spend 14–15 hours in the air, but once you add travel to and from the airport, check-in, passport control, layovers and everything else, the total travel time creeps closer to 24 hours. A full day.


Even though I’ve done the trip many times, I always overestimate how productive I will be in these long flights. In reality, I get nothing done. I might manage to watch a movie from start to finish, but that’s where my efficiency ends. And that was true even before I had kids. Now, at best, I serve as a pillow.

Day 10: On the go

The girls travel well. They’ve had their fair share of long trips – partly because we genuinely love travelling, but also because they are half Finnish and half South African. Whichever half you live close to, the other one is a long way away.

Travelling is great – even if flying itself is mostly just a lot of waiting in uncomfortable seats