Faircape Life : Festive Delights : December 2020 : Issue 13

Issue 13 | December 2020

lif e Festive Delights Objects of Desire Village News

My Little Garden

Bridgewater Manor | Onrus Manor | Heritage Manor | ClĂŠ Du Cap | Noordhoek Manor | Tokai Estate

FAIRCAPE LIFE

Claremont Office Candice Vietri Tel: 021 815 5700 Direct: 021 815 5762 sales@faircape.co.za Faircape Group 6th Floor, The Terraces, 25 Protea Road, Claremont, 7708 Tel: 021 815 5700 Postal Address PO Box 13214, Mowbray, 7705 Tel: 021 815 5700 Facsimile: 086 511 0120 If you have any queries feel free to contact us on enquiries@faircape.co.za Edited by: Abigail Jacobs Design: Nicole Van Breda Design: Catherine Edwards Copy: Tracy Campbell Research: Annéne Maré Contributions from: Heritage Manor, Bridgewater Manor, Clé Du Cap, Noordhoek Manor, Onrus Manor, Tokai Estate Photo credits: Bridgewater Manor, Cle Du Cap, Heritage Manor, Noordhoek Manor, Onrus Manor, Tokai Estate, Unsplash, Rawpixel, Envato Elements, Freepik, Pexels, Pixabay www.faircapelife.co.za

CONTENTS Letter from the CEO

02

News: Objects of Desire

06

News: Lifestyle

08

Western Cape Travel

10

Village Travels

14

International Travel

16

Life Rights

19

Healthy Mind & Body

20

Health: Dietician

22

Health: Occupational Therapy

24

Health: MDT

26

Health: Mind

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Festive Delights

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Faircape Life Villages

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Village News: Bridgewater Manor

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Village News: Onrus Manor

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Village News: Heritage Manor

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Village News: Clé Du Cap

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Village News: Noordhoek Manor

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Village News: Tokai Estate

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All of Nature’s Wonder

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My Little Garden

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Puzzles

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Short Story

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Letter from the CEO

Letter from the CEO I ended my last newsletter with the hope that I would be referring to life after COVID-19 by the time this newsletter was due.

Little did we know what lies ahead for us…

What a terrible time we have all experienced in one way or another.

Some of us have lost loved ones or know of those who have. We watched the second COVID-19 wave unfold in Europe and America with huge concern. Most of us were – and still are – weary of the rules and its consequential impact on our way of life. Families are desperate to hug and touch loved ones having been confined to seeing them through a glass screen.

As lockdown levels have eased, it’s easy to get lulled into complacency, specifically as it relates to following the necessary sanitary protocols.

However, we must remain vigilant. This virus has not left us yet and we have started seeing an increase in infection rates once more.

We have relaxed some of our rules regarding the use of our village facilities in line with the government’s policy. However, residents are fully in control of making their own decisions as to whether they want to attend events and the amount of risk they are willing to take.

There is little doubt that our retirement communities have felt the effects of COVID-19 more than most. At a stage of life when family and friends are most important, social interaction is limited to eyes staring from above a mask.

Our Faircape communities have weathered this period relatively well – even though every life lost has been a terrible blow to those affected families and friends. I do believe that the responsible approach taken by the vast majority of our community has carried us through this difficult time.

Our communities include our staff. What incredible commitment and responsibility these staff members have shown. Most of them have been using public transport to get to work where infection risks are much greater. They work in plastic aprons, visors and masks all day.

They make the time to smile and care for our vulnerable residents.

We can only salute these amazing people who – almost without exception – have cared for our residents so incredibly capably.

Thank you from all of us.

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Letter from the CEO

We do believe that we are in a far better space than we were when the pandemic started. We have been extremely fortunate to bring two highly respected doctors into the Faircape medical practice. Dr Nicci Snyders is a family practice physician and Dr Bridget Cochrane is a palliative care specialist. Both doctors are fully engaged in our Tokai sub-acute facility and offer services to our village residents in the southern suburbs. They have gained an incredible amount of experience and knowledge in sub-acute care, and most importantly, are at the cutting-edge of the latest clinical techniques in treating COVID-19. We continue to look to them for guidance in the treatment of our residents in light of the virus.

Village life is starting to return to normal activity levels with the reintroduction of some popular and familiar activities. We are grateful for the positive interaction we have received from our hardworking trustees and community members who have been so supportive of our village management efforts to keep residents safe, while simultaneously ensuring some level of social interaction.

Congratulations to our new trustees – we all appreciate that you have taken the time to add value to the quality of your fellow residents’ lives.

Our restaurants and bars are open and our catering teams have been hard at work finding ways to make the food one of the highlights of our Faircape village offering. We have been receiving very positive comments recently and are looking at investing in the latest cooking equipment to further uplift our ability to serve great food at affordable prices. New menus have been designed with input from residents, and we do believe that this collaboration will achieve the highest level of culinary excellence.

We are all looking forward to Christmas in the hope that the holiday season will once again bring some of the familiar positivity and family togetherness that we have all missed.

Stay safe and rest assured that we are going to be working harder than ever before to make your village the best place it can be over the ensuing months.

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy Christmas.

Mike Vietri

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News: Objects of Desire

Tag Heuer Aquaracer Men’s Watch

TRENDS warmth

Chommies Standard Dog Leash - Gold www.chommies.com

Autumn Vision Scatter in Saffron www.hertex.co.za

Cognac Diamond Earrings www.brownsjewellers.com

Haldane Martin - Swartberg Sofa 8

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www.haldane.co.za

News: Objects of Desire

Babylonstoren Oudh Candle www.babylonstoren.com

Breville CafĂŠ Venezia Espresso Machine www.home.co.za

TRENDS home

Steenberg 1682 MCC www.steenbergfarm.com Vorster and Braye Dry Goods Jar - Instagram @vorsterandbraye

Woolworths Floral Print Scatter Cushion www.woolworths.co.za

Le Creuset Whistling Stovetop Kettle - Meringue

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Simple steps to reset and attain clarity Pottering is a necessity in the chaos of modern-day life. Often it takes a conscious effort to do these small tasks that eliminate stress.

There are no prizes for being the perfect potter.

drawer or packing up and donating those books

There are no benchmarks or professional yardsticks

you rarely use – you access a mental state of being

that will deem you the most proficient potter.

that enables your mind to reset and refocus,

While you can get really good at doing those little

gathering your thoughts without even purposefully

things, chipping away at those tiny tasks that you

setting out to do so.

never seem to have time for, you won’t ever be excellent at it – and that’s the best part.

There’s no right way to potter, and there’s no wrong way to potter. The fact is that everyone

What is pottering? The art of ticking off those pesky

will always be on the same proficiency level – and

domestic tasks and occupations around the house

this level is their own. And, this is one of the great

that don’t often make it onto the never-ending To

things about pottering – there’s no perfectionist

Do list, but are really important to maintain a level

level that you are striving towards and this in itself

of clarity. It’s the things that really don’t look all

brings about a sense of unequivocable sense of

that productive, but that will allow you to achieve

peace. When you decide to fold all your shopping

an astonishing amount simply by fixing, recycling,

bags (because you like or want to), nobody can

upcycling, pulling out the weeds in the flower bed

advise you, again because there just is no standard.

and dusting the cobwebs under that counter you

There’s no judgment when it comes to pottering –

never get to.

you can go about doing these tasks and activities as you please, free from prying eyes desperate

Apart from achieving a clear mind, the benefits of

to guide you according to the ‘way things are

pottering are achieved by becoming so engrossed

done’. Pottering is disconnected from the ‘always

in these little chores – sorting out the dishcloth

on’ lifestyle. It doesn’t lend itself to you Googling

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News: Lifestyle your way to fold your shopping bags before you

Almost as if time has stood still.

pack them away, you do that as you please. In doing so, you unearth an unrivalled sense of calm,

Pottering for most people is unchartered territory

tranquility and judgment-free space in your

because people are accustomed to a plan. Often

own mind and as a result you diminish your

times, it’s those things that you derive the tiniest

stress levels.

bit of pleasure from that helps to keep your stress at bay. Thinking of reorganising the cutlery

In the unprecedented time that the world has

drawer, then do it. There is so much satisfaction

found itself, pottering almost seems like its time

and appeasement to be gained from polishing

has finally arrived. As more and more people spend time at home, we are getting to do things that we never seem to have the time for. The practicalities of domestic life that frees us up to be better versions of ourselves. Things like decorating projects (that pillowcase you have been meaning to stitch since last year) or decluttering (that forgotten cupboard with all the clothing

up your cutlery drawer and reorganising it the way you want. Instead of opening up that drawer every day while rummaging through it to find a teaspoon thinking, “I really need to make time to organise this drawer”.

Pottering offers the opportunity to get into a

in that no longer fits you). In this time that you

meditative state as one activity flows seamlessly

do these tasks, you get the opportunity to think

into another. Organising the cutlery draw

about nothing and everything. Your thoughts are

leads to pulling weeds out of the flower bed to

yours – not the meeting that you need to attend,

mulching the succulent bed under your bedroom

not the report that’s due, just you alone with your

window. This flow is where the magic of pottering

thoughts thinking about what matters most – and

happens, as you are doing productive tasks

sometimes that means, “should I throw this out, or

without scheduling it or planning to do it, it just

should I keep this?”.

Oftentimes we hear people say, “I just need time to think.” And, there’s a reason for these mindful

happens. While doing so, you are completely relaxed and your mind is rested. Your stress and cortisol levels are drastically reduced.

yearnings. We seldom get an opportunity to be alone with our thoughts as the hyperconnected state of our minds between social media, family commitments and work-related deadlines is a relentless captivator of our time.

•

the digital world, even if it’s only WhatsApp

How often have you literally just started a weekend

won’t allow you to switch off and just be

when Sunday evening arrives and in a blink the

totally present in the moment.

weekend has come and gone and you can’t really account for what you did – but somehow it feels like a wasted time?

Turn off the digital noise. The distraction of

•

Don’t turn it into a chore. It’s easy to want to start scheduling pottering. That’s the

Humans love to be in control and that’s why we

whole point, you shouldn’t, so don’t. Just go

over plan everything. Lists, schedules, itineraries –

with it and let your mind wander freely.

we plan ourselves into a stress oblivion. Without a specific plan, you free yourself to accept

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Use what you have. Instead of going out to buy stuff so that you can potter, use

opportunities as it spontaneously arrives. It’s surprising how much pleasure pottering can bring,

things around the house. It ramps up your

yet many people don’t do it, or don’t do it often

creativity and resourcefulness too.

enough. While pottering to some may not sound all that thrilling, the contentment you feel is quite

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Keep things moving. You need to maintain

simply one of the best outcomes to manage stress

a state of flow. Keep moving from one

in modern life. To this end, the pace is generally

activity to the next and be completely

slower, and it tricks your mind into thinking it’s on vacation with ample spare time.

engrossed in each of them.

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KALK BAY 12

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Western Cape Travel

a seaside town with a real story Kalk Bay is more than your average seaside fishing village. The rich history that its story is built on is little known to people, but once you do, you’ll be drawn to this location even more.

A day spent in Kalk Bay will always be a day well spent. From ambling leisurely through the troves of boutique stores and pop-up cultural markets to the under-acknowledged yet excellent restaurants, you’re sure to have a good time. Add to this the incredible sea views and unmatched sense of serenity and it quickly becomes clear that there’s something more to this sleepy fishing village. Unbeknownst to many visitors, Kalk Bay has a unique and rich history that is surprising.

Diving into the name, Kalk Bay literally translated from Dutch means ‘Lime Bay’. This name was given in honouring the vast deposits of mussel shells. Early settlers, burned these mussel shells to produce lime, which they used in construction.

First established along the False Bay coast in 1742, the seaside town of Kalk Bay was first used as a mini port for Dutch sailors. At that time, the Dutch East India Company transported the necessary construction materials it needed to build Simons Town. Simon’s Town, at the time, was the location where it anchored its ships as the roads during those days were inadequate for the transportation of construction materials. This so-called mini-port was terminated after the British regained control over the Cape, building better roads, the result of which led to Kalk Bay falling into disuse by the late 1700s.

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The fishing trade in Kalk Bay took off.

In 1820, whaling sprung up as an economic activity for Kalk Bay, bringing with it much enterprise and securing a spot as the third biggest revenue driver for the Cape colony after winemaking and agriculture respectively.

Three of the primary whaling stations were in Kalk Bay, however the near-extinction of the female Southern Right Whale caused this practice to be abandoned, rendering Kalk Bay purposeless once more.

Looking further into this town’s history, it can be noted that Kalk Bay has a strong Filipino heritage. According to historical resources, in 1840 a shipwreck at Cape Point saw Filipinos settle in the area. One of these settlers, a man by the name of Felix Flores, is regarded as the ‘godfather’ of the Filipino community. This was due to the fact that he acted in a capacity as an overseer of the residents and invited other Filipino crew members on American shipping docks anchored at Simon’s Town to settle in the village.

In the 1850s, more Filipinos seeking refuge from the Spanish riots settled in the area.

Although many returned home after the United States of America occupied the Philippines, an estimated 60 families remained behind – their descendants still live in the area today. In present day, there’s a high probability that those living in Kalk Bay with surnames like Fernandez, de la Cruz, Florez, Padua, Manuel, Pasqual and Garcia are direct descendants of these original Filipino settlers. The area grew from a small Filipino community to a Selected resources: The Heritage portal: www.theheritageportal.co.za/notice/history-filipinocommunity-recognized-kalk-bay South Africa.net: www.southafrica.net/gl/en/travel/article/historickalk-bay

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melting pot of cultural cohesion when the emancipated slaves from Batavia, Java and Malaysia also settled in the area.

Western Cape Travel

Kalk Bay has never been one to conform and always set its own rules.

Bringing their culture and ingenuity, these Filipino

It did however enter into a dark time where property

settlers were pivotal in cultivating Kalk Bay into

prices became too expensive forcing poorer families

what it is today. From the St James Parish to the

to move into the area known as Die Land. The

burgeoning fishing activities, these settlers brought

Slums Act of 1934 cleared this area and after much

their influence and fishing skills to foster rapid growth

protestation by the fishermen and local residents, the

in the fishing trade – where today it still is one of the

Kalk Bay Housing Scheme of 1938 was established

activities Kalk Bay is renowned for.

and the Fishermens Flats were built between 1941 and 1945.

The railway line from Cape Town was first established in May 1883. This became one of Kalk Bay’s most

Fast forward to 2017, where the historic influence of

notable developments. From this point forward,

the Filipinos was acknowledged by renaming the

the fishing trade in Kalk Bay took off and by 1892,

steps - leading from Boyes Drive to the old graveyard

Kalk Bay was the primary supplier of the domestic

on Quarterdeck Road - to the Manila Steps.

Cape market as well as Kimberly and Bloemfontein

In present day Kalk Bay, there is a plethora of

respectively. Due to this industrial resurgence, the

influences that permeate the air in this town. Multi-

population increased which led to the construction of

cultural boutique stores, pop-up markets and of

more houses, hotels, shops and schools and modern-

course, the culinary influences. The area is beloved

day Kalk Bay started taking shape.

for its slow-paced life that still holds its authenticity – perfect for the weekend meander and break from the

Kalk Bay has never been one to conform and always

urban bustle.

set its own rules. It was one of the few areas in Cape Town to resist the apartheid-era mixed marriages act.

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Village Travels

Village Travels

Adventures were had, out and about!

The year has been an unchartered one for all of us in South Africa and beyond. We have been tried and tested in unprecedented ways. But, as we have come to learn, that when crisis confronts us, our resilience underpinned by our positive outlook, will always triumph.

Within these trying times and journeys of discovery, we understand that there is a distinct opportunity for something beautiful to emerge.

Over the past few months, we’ve kept moving forward – although at a distance. To this end, we have held a plethora of events to establish a state of mindfulness and tranquillity for our residents.

At every interaction or engagement, all the necessary sanitary protocols were in place and implemented by our passionate and caring teams.

In our time of reflection, we’ve discovered our true potential.

We want to salute our people for their unyielding passion and commitment.

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Village Travels

Bridgewater Manor had a fabulous Oktoberfest

Tokai Estate’s Hiking Club

Ellerman House was very interesting

The stunning West Coast flowers

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International Travel

VERSAILLE

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International Travel

A 400-year-old history for ages.

Are there words to fully capture the essence that is Versailles? How does one find the right lens to bring to life a persona that was often dazzling, sometimes charming, and at times shabby but yet nostalgic? These were some of the poignant questions asked

by Catherine Pégard, the president of the Public Establishment of the Palace, Museum and National Estate of Versailles, in the introduction of Versailles: From Louis XIV to Jeff Koons (Assouline, $895).

The book, penned by Pégard, in a collaborative effort with writer and Versailles expert, Mathieu da Vinha, pays homage to the rich and illustrious history of this celebrated château, pouring over paintings, photographs, drawings and notable film stills that capture arresting stories of the palace across several eras.

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International Travel Since its construction under the reign of Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, in the late 17th century, Versailles occupied his time as the an architect and artist and today still serves as the inspiration for designers across the globe, residing in private residences and public artistic displays crafted in the image of the palace.

This icon of French history still holds allure and a seductive pull that continues to draw over 10 million visitors each year.

“A palace of a thousand and one events, enough to fill a history book, perhaps; a palace of a thousand and one nights, enough to make an art book,” writes Pégard. But as is noted, that for a while now Versailles has not belonged to the monarchy, nor interestingly enough, does it really belong to history. Upon deeper pondering, you quickly realise that Versailles is first a palace of a thousand and one lives that shape our thinking and creativity in the same way that things of the past inspire and influence things of the present.

Selected resources: Alex Erdekian, (2020) Conde Nast Traveller, ‘This New Book Will Transport You to the Palace of Versailles’, www.cntraveler.com/gallery/newpalace-of-versailles-book Owen Jarus, (2017) Livescience, ‘Palace of Versailles: Facts & History’, www.livescience.com/38903-palace-of-versailles-facts-history.html Stefanie Waldek, (2020), ‘Dive into Versailles’s 400-Year History’ Architectuaraldigest.com, www.architecturaldigest.com/story/versailles-fromlouis-xiv-to-jeff-koons

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Advertorial: Life Right Holding

Life Rights The benefits of Life Rights What is a Life Right?

A Life Right is a real right to occupy a specific property for the remainder of the holder’s life and the housing interest afforded to the holder is governed and protected by the Housing Development Schemes for Retired Persons Act of 1988 (“The Retired Persons Act”).

What are the advantages of a Life Right?

There are many reasons why purchasers opt for life rights instead of traditional forms of ownership and the Life Rights model is a widely practiced and well recognised retirement model worldwide.

Some key advantages to a Life Right include the following: There is no transfer duty or VAT payable on a Life Right The rights of each Life Right holder are protected Quick registration Efficient estate planning Financially viable Additional benefits when retiring with Faircape Faircape has experience in providing a successful, secure, and stress-free environment to our residents. We go the extra mile to ensure you retire with confidence.

For more information contact Candice Vietri (Sales Manager) Telephone: 021 815 5700 Email: candicev@faircape.co.za Website: www.faircapelife.co.za

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Healthy Mind & Body At Faircape Life and Health our holistic approach to wellness is underpinned by people-centric care, focused on the mind and body connection.

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‘Tis the Season to be Berry Summer is berry season in South Africa, which means strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and more are readily available in stores. These superfoods are tasty and refreshing and offer some great health benefits.

Berries offer great health benefits and are: Full of antioxidants, which prevent slow damage to cells and reduce the risk of disease.

High in soluble fibre, which slows down the movement of food down your digestive tract, increases absorption of key nutrients and keeps you full for longer.

Lower in sugar and calories than other fruits.

A heart-healthy food that can help you to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes (when eaten as part of a healthy diet).

Here are some tips to help increase your intake of berries: Add to cooked porridge or cereal at breakfast Have a handful as an on-the-go snack Mix with plain yoghurt for a delicious snack or dessert Add to muffins, flapjacks or pancakes for a fresh twist Juice and freeze into popsicles and enjoy on those hot summer days Incorporate fresh or frozen berries into summery desserts to enjoy during the festive season, pavlova and trifle are always Christmas favourites

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Health: Dietician

What’s your gut telling you?

Having optimal gut health restores bacterial

Here are some easy ways to do this:

balance giving your body the opportunity to

Limit your intake of sugar and processed

regenerate and increase its immunity levels. This

foods. These foods encourage the growth of

helps your body fend off the bad bacteria, keeping

bad bacteria in the gut and have a negative

you healthy.

effect on overall health and immunity.

Increase your intake of fibre, especially from

Gut Health and its role in immunity and disease is

whole foods. Include whole grains, legumes

a topic that is gaining popularity. As you get older,

and fibrous fruits and vegetables on a

issues with digestion become more common, so

daily basis.

I thought it would be interesting to delve a bit deeper into the importance of gut health.

Probiotics help to encourage a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Commercial

Your gut microbiome is the community of

probiotics can be limited in what they supply

microorganisms that live in your intestines. Each

and how effective they are. It is important to

of us has thousands of species of bacteria and

do your research when choosing a suitable

fungi living inside our gut. These microbiotas play

probiotic. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids

an active role in digestion and absorption and can

to enable the fibre to effectively perform its

influence different aspects of our health and our

necessary functions.

immune systems.

Focus on including foods that contain natural probiotics. While research is not conclusive,

Having a healthy balance of gut bacteria is

many people and cultures believe in the

essential in healthy ageing. Basically, we want to

benefit of fermented foods such as sauerkraut,

encourage the growth of healthy bacteria, and

kimchi, kombucha, yoghurt or kefir. These

limit the growth of the unhealthy types. As we age,

can be included as part of a balanced diet to

our gut microbiome becomes less diverse. It is

encourage a healthy gut.

important that we eat right to encourage healthy bacteria to dominate.

Food for Thought

By Toni Smyth (Group Dietician, Faircape Health)

1.

Oily Fish promotes healthy brain function

2.

Dark Chocolate enhances memory and improves mood

Eating well is good for your physical health as well as your mental health. Which foods

3.

Berries boosts short-term memory

4.

Coffee increases alertness and concentration

5.

Nuts and Seeds prevents cognitive decline

6.

Wholegrains improves concentration and focus

that promote cell growth, can promote both

7.

Avocados keeps brain cells healthy

long- and short-term brain function and

8.

Peanuts maintains proper brain function

power, include the following foods into your

9.

Eggs reduces homocysteine levels in the blood

diet on a regular basis:

10.

Broccoli improves cognitive function

are specifically important to keep your grey matter ticking along?

The food we eat can have a huge impact on the cell structure of our brain. Eating foods

memory. If you want to boost your brain

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Health: Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy Holistic healing for mind and body There is no doubt that we’ve faced new and

Denise Simoneau, OTR/L, occupational therapy

unexpected events this year. We have all come a

supervisor explains, “Most people are familiar with

long way in overcoming the uncertainty, fear and

physical therapy. “It’s what gets people up and

loneliness that COVID-19 brought along with it.

moving. OT is what gets people doing the things

Society’s health and well-being have been greatly

they need to, once they are up and moving.”

impacted by this pandemic, and it is important to recognise these feelings of anxiousness,

“An Occupational Therapist is particularly

hopelessness and disconnect, to some degree, as

interested in an evaluation of a person’s ability

a part of our common human outlook.

to participate in activities of daily living (ADLs)” says Catherine Yost, Occupational Therapist.

As Occupational Therapists (OTs), we at

ADLs include everyday activities such as brushing

Faircape Health, work to preserve our residents’

your teeth, washing, getting dressed, cooking

independence in everyday living. Hilary Williams,

and driving respectively. We personalise goals to

lead OT within the South London and Maudsley

focus on helping people to be able to participate

(SLaM) NHS Foundation Trust’s Psychosis

in these everyday activities as independently as

services, says, “what most people want to do is

possible so that they are able to return to their

live as independently as possible, stay in their own

life roles. Catherine adds that “this could mean

homes and do things that are meaningful

starting a personalised exercise program to build

to them.”

strength around an injury or providing special

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Health: Occupational Therapy equipment like a raised toilet seat after

nap when you’re feeling tired or disconnect

hip surgery”.

and leisurely watch that TV show you’ve been meaning to. Once you feel refreshed, you’ll be

In an interview by Kim Thomas (June 2016),

ready to tackle your tasks.

Esther Rutledge describes how she had fallen in her kitchen after slipping from the countertop

Make a “to-do” list: Make a tangible and

to reach the meter in a high cupboard. She

manageable “to-do” list. There’s a sense of

had landed on her shoulder and fractured her

achievement that comes with ticking items off

humerus. As a result, she needed to undergo

that list followed by a feeling of motivation to

surgery before returning home.

drive you to tackle the next task.

Once back at home, an Occupational Therapist continued weekly outpatient therapy with her.

Their focus of the sessions was to provide her with the techniques and assistive devices to enable her to get dressed and to dry her back and feet independently. Esther found the experience empowering and comforting stating: “It did not only help in the practical sense but there was a reassurance in knowing someone was coming in.

We joked and got on. It was invaluable.”

Create a support network with family and friends: In an article by Jessica Gold, Dr Anne Giedinghagen, M.D., assistant professor of psychiatry at Washington University in St. Louis, it was said: “Running a marathon is always hard, but it’s even harder when you can’t even visualise the finish line. It is also harder if you’re trying to do it without enough support.”

Main takeaway: Onwards and upwards to a healthier, more

Occupational Therapy covers more than physical

positive way of life that creates enriching

health but encompasses mental health too. The

experiences every day.

South African Department of Health has outlined a few helpful ways to stay mentally and physically

By Andrea Zanetti (OT Department & Training

healthy as we work together through our new

Manager, Faircape Health) and Nicole Bernfield

normal.

(Medical Aid Liaison Officer, Tokai Estate)

Try to maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated and get enough sleep.

Maintain a good routine, even when you are at home.

Incorporate physical activity into your weekly routine.

Plan regular activities that you enjoy.

If you feel overwhelmed, reach out for support.

As easy as the above advice is to follow, even making small changes every day, studies have shown that a lack of will power is the most common barrier to healthy lifestyle changes.

So how can we become the change for ourselves and inspire others to pursue a positive and healthy lifestyle?

Take that nap: We all run out of energy every so often, so be kind to yourself and take a

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Demystifying MDTs and its importance to the integration process Multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) are the mechanism for organising and coordinating health and care services to meet the needs of individuals with complex care needs.

These specialist teams – comprising varying professionals – brings together their expertise and finely-honed skills to assess, plan and manage care in a collaborative manner.

A holistic and integrated approach to care and health support requires the meticulous coordination of a myriad of interventions and services – all built around the complex continuum of people’s needs, personal strengths and their respective desirable outcomes.

Faircape Health employs a group of healthcare professionals that form part of the MDT. Our extensive in-house multidisciplinary clinical team, who proficiently ensures

Multi Disciplinary Teams

world-class care, best practice and health promotion comprises medical practitioners, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and social workers.

Also included in this highly experienced team is a dietician, psychologist and a nursing and administration team respectively.

Faircape Healthcare Centres provide professional care in a modern environment. All enquiries for admission are submitted for comprehensive assessments to

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Advertorial: Health accurately determine the health and care needs on an individual basis. These assessments are conducted by a medical professional and recommendations for the best level of care are then proposed accordingly.

Our offering: Fully Accredited Healthcare Centres Accredited by the Department of Health and the Department of Social Development.

State-of-the-Art Care The latest advanced medical technologies and equipment for rehabilitation.

Bespoke Needs Patient-centric care that is adapted around the specific and individualised needs of residents.

Professional Staff An extensive multidisciplinary clinical team to ensure excellent care, best practice and health promotion for all sub-acute and long-term patients.

Ideal Rehabilitation Environment All our healthcare centres are situated within scenic, luxury, high-security complexes or retirement estates that allow for the utmost safety, security and relaxation during a patient’s stay.

For enquiries about Bridgewater Manor, Heritage Manor or Tokai Estate Healthcare Centres contact Sr Cheryl De Bruyn on cherylb@faircape.co.za or 082 612 6500 For enquiries about ClĂŠ Du Cap, Noordhoek Manor or Onrus Manor Healthcare Centres contact Sr Karin Louwrens on karinl@faircape.co.za or 060 997 6209

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Find Your Inner Peace. a beginners guide to meditation Meditation is a centuries-old practise first used by

Posture Meditation posture is one of the simplest

Japanese monks to bring about a sense of calm,

ways to start meditating. Sit down in a comfortable

peace and balance to help move through

chair in an upright, but relaxed position. Place your

their day in a calmer state of being.

feet flat on the floor. If you’re uncomfortable, place a pillow behind your lower back for added support.

In the present day, meditative practices are widely

This is a great meditation form as you can meditate

used and are practised and are far more common

wherever you are especially if you need that

than before. Recent studies have shown that

afternoon rejuvenation.

practising regular meditation techniques can help you to alleviate stress, and even manage symptoms

Meditation allows you to take a moment to tune

of certain medical conditions.

into your body and tap into your natural breathing rhythm. Find a quiet space and start practising for

Meditation comes in many forms and for ease of

short periods – do what you feel is right for you as

reference we’ve unpacked some of these in this

there’s no right or wrong way to meditate.

article – most of which are specifically geared towards those just starting out:

Initially, it may feel strange sitting alone in silence, but in no time you’ll find solace in the myriad of

Types of meditation

benefits that will have you wondering why you didn’t start this sooner.

Mantra Mantra is a popular form of meditation where the concept is that you focus on an idea, phrase or word to internalise it so that it becomes part of your consciousness.

Visualisation As the name suggests, visualisation is when you visualise something (place, person, object

Apps to download Calm Meditate, Sleep, Relax

etc) with the view to enhancing your mood and

Headspace

oftentimes to help you through a stressful event.

Meditation & Sleep

Mindfulness Mindfulness meditation is the form of meditation that is best suited to beginners. This form of meditation uses breathing techniques to improve your ability to be present in the moment – which also assists in dealing with anxiety and stress.

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Waking Up Guided Meditation and Mindfulness Selected resources: Elaine Mead, (2020), ‘The History and Origin of Meditation’ Positivepsychology.com, www.positivepsychology.com/history-of-meditation/ Holly Bertone, (2020), ‘Which Type of Meditation Is Right for Me?’, Healthline.com, www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/types-ofmeditation#takeaway

What is Tai Chi?

Health: Mind

Tai Chi is a gentle form of exercise that helps to strengthen bones and joints and maintain flexibility and balance. It is the ideal low-impact activity that can be practised often to derive optimal benefits.

In the throws of the modern world, stress and tension are the primary cause of illness and disease. Now, more than ever, we need to decompress and release nervous tension to mitigate the effects of stress and anxiety.

Originating in China as a form of martial arts, Tai Chi is a mind-body practise that has shown optimistic results in treating and preventing numerous health issues. Tai Chi is a self-healing practise that has existed for centuries and this movement therapy has helped millions of people reduce their stress and anxiety levels and maintain bone and joint suppleness as well as increased energy levels.

Tai Chi exercises are slow-motion movements that you practise in a series of uninterrupted motions. As you move through these simple range of motions, you focus on your breathing in a form of meditation. Tai Chi movements don’t lend itself to forced movements, instead, it uses circular movements where the muscles are relaxed instead of tensed.

Your joints are never fully extended or bent making this a comfortable, engaging low-impact exercise for all ages.

The Benefits 1.

Organ functionality is increased resulting in more vitality and suppleness

2.

Increased strength in muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones

3.

Circulation is promoted throughout the body

4.

Boosts the immune system

5.

Aids the healing of various minor and major ailments

6.

Relieves stress and anxiety

7.

Uplifts the spirit and promotes mind clarity

8.

Increases memory and brain function

9.

Assists coordination and multi-tasking

10.

Increases back and core strength

Selected resources: Harvard Women’s Health Watch, (2019), ‘The health benefits of tai chi’ , Health.harvard. edu, www.health.harvard.edu/stayinghealthy/the-health-benefits-of-tai-chi Zen Studio, ‘What is tai chi’, zenstudio.co.za, www.zenstudio.co.za/tai-chi/

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FAIRCAPE LIFE

Delicious Cuisine.

Excellence echoes in everything we do. Our food is no different.

Our villages serve quality culinary dishes, every day much to the delight of our residents.

Festive Delights Good times, good cheer, and a happy new year!

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Ingredients 25g butter

juice 1 lemon, plus a few slices for a finger bowl

2 tbsp olive oil

½ small bunch parsley, roughly chopped

3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

small loaf crusty bread, warmed to serve

1 red chilli, seeds left in and finely chopped ½ tsp sweet paprika 12-20 large raw king prawns with shells

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Dining: Starter

Method 1. Melt the butter and oil together in a frying pan. Add the garlic, chilli and paprika, then fry for 1-2 mins until starting to turn golden. Turn up the heat, add the prawns and fry for a few mins, stirring, until all the prawns turn pink. Take off the heat, season and stir in the lemon juice and parsley.

2. Add some lemon slices to a finger bowl of warm water, grab a bowl for the shells, then dig straight in with chunks of crusty bread.

Buttery Chilli Prawns Perfect Pairing Graham Beck Brut Rose NV Exuberance, flair and elegance in abundance are all hallmarks of this charming and exhilarating RosĂŠ Cap Classique. The fine, lively mousse is brisk on the palate, showing hints of oyster shell, fresh lavender and subtle hints of raspberries and cherry. Fun and versatile, yet simultaneously satisfyingly complex.

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Dining: Main

Orange and Cranberry Roast Chicken with Rosemary Balsamic Butter

Ingredients 1 whole chicken 2 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 220 degrees. Dry the skin of the chicken with paper towels. Place the cranberries and rosemary in a small roasting pan.

a few sprigs of rosemary 1 large orange

2. Mix the Rosemary Balsamic Butter ingredients together in a small bowl. Spread the butter

Rosemary Balsamic Butter 1/4 cup butter, softened 1 tablespoon reduced balsamic vinegar

under the skin of the chicken, being careful not to break the skin.

3. Lay the chicken on the cranberries. Cut the orange into quarters and squeeze the juice over the chicken then nestle the quarters around the chicken.

2 teaspoon rosemary 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper zest from 1 orange (use the orange you’ll use for the chicken)

4. Roast the chicken for 45 minutes then reduce the heat to 180 degrees and continue roasting for another 45 minutess.

5. Remove the chicken from the pan and serve with the cranberries spooned over the top.

Perfect Pairing Creation Viognier 2020 A promising pale gold, clear and shiny in the glass. Abundantly fruity and forthcoming yet refined on the nose with fragrant white peach aromas mingling with a rich, creamy character. Delicious enjoyed with creamy pasta and poultry dishes.

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Dining: Dessert

Method 1. For meringue, position rack on bottom shelf of

dissolves. Add cornflour, vanilla, cream of tartar

oven and preheat oven to 120 degrees. Using a

and 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, then whisk until

pencil, draw a 20cm-diameter circle on a piece

just combined.

of baking paper, turn over and use paper to line a baking tray.

3. Using a large spoon, gently spread meringue on prepared tray to fill the drawn circle (it

2. Whisk egg whites in an electric mixer on

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should be about 4cm high). Bake for 1 1/2 hours

medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually

or until crisp and dry to the touch. Turn off heat

add sugar, beating well after each addition,

and cool meringue completely in oven with the

then beat for 10 minutes or until sugar

door ajar.

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Ingredients 6 egg whites 1 1/2 cups (330g) caster sugar 1 tablespoon cornflour 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar 2 cups (560g) good-quality 2 cups (560g) good-quality passionfruit yoghurt

Spiced Cherry Compote 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice

Pavlova with Spiced Cherry Compote

4. Meanwhile, for compote, combine sugar, zest, juice, Grand Marnier and cinnamon in a pan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8 minutes or until syrupy. Add cherries and cook for 1 minute or until coated and cherries are beginning to release their juices. Cool to room temperature.

5. Place pavlova on a large platter, spoon over yoghurt and top with compote.

1/4 cup (60ml) Grand Marnier 1 cinnamon quil 400g cherries, pitted

Perfect Pairing Pierre Jourdan - Ratafia The Ratafia has a warm golden colour in the glass. One can expect a full-bodied sweet wine, with typical Chardonnay characteristics including hints of fresh limes along with rich honey tones. Can be matured for up to 10 years.

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Blood Orange & Rosemary Screwdriver Cocktail Ingredients ice 120 ml chilled vodka 350 ml blood orange juice 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary

Method 1. Fill two glasses with ice cubes 2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice add the vodka and the blood orange juice and one sprig of rosemary. Shake the cocktail vigorously and strain into the ice filled glasses.

3. Garnish with a fresh orange wedge and a sprig of fresh rosemary.

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Summer Cocktails

The Real Mojito Cocktail Ingredients 10 fresh mint leaves

Method 1. Place mint leaves and 1 lime wedge into a sturdy glass. Use a muddler to crush the mint and lime

½ lime, cut into 4 wedges 2 tablespoons white sugar, or to taste

to release the mint oils and lime juice.

2. Add 2 more lime wedges and the sugar, and muddle again to release the lime juice. Do not

1 cup ice cubes 150 ml white rum

strain the mixture.

3. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Pour the rum over the ice, and fill the glass with

½ cup soda water

carbonated water.

4. Stir, taste, and add more sugar if desired. Garnish with the remaining lime wedge.

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Bridgewater Manor Somerset West

ClĂŠ Du Cap Kirstenhof

Heritage Manor Somerset West

For more information contact Candice Vietri Telephone: 021 815 5700 | 42

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Email: candicev@faircape.co.za

FAIRCAPE LIFE

Tokai Estate Tokai

Noordhoek Manor Noordhoek

Onrus Manor Onrus

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Village News

Bridgewater Manor “Compassion and care are at the heart of Bridgewater Manor”

by Yolandi Beadsworth

I think we all know that this was a very tough year

was in a “party mood”, wine was flowing, loads of

for all of us. Especially the elderly people.

laughter in the air, new friends were made and

For the Residents of Bridgewater Manor, it was a

you could feel and see the happiness among all of

huge adjustment to understand all the new rules

the residents.

and protocols that came with Covid-19.

This get-together was really something that all Instead of the socialising they were accustomed

the residents needed after having been stuck in

to, residents instead had to collect their meals

their cottages for so long without proper human

from the dining room with months passing by

interaction. Again, this makes us realise how

with little interaction with each other.

important our loved ones are and how important human interaction is.

As restrictions were eased the first thing on the residents’ “wish list” was to have a braai. So, on 16

A big thank you to all our residents for their

November 2020, we made their wish come true.

patience with us during this time and also a big ‘thank you’ to all our staff. Our residents’

Mr. van der Walt, who is one of our committee

happiness is important to us and we are glad

members, offered to braai all the meat with some

that we could make the braai happen and give

help from our staff. Our catering team arranged

them something that they were longing for.

braai packs, garlic breads and salads for the

But, the happiness at Bridgewater Manor did not

residents. Marlize Du Plessis, our customer service

stop there…

officer, was in charge of the décor and she even arranged a live band “aka” her wonderful husband,

On the 26 October, we welcomed 14 ‘ducklings’ to

Morne Du Plessis.

our pond. Our residents are thrilled with the newcomers in the village – and we all look forward

Residents started gathering on the patio area in

to getting to know each other. Keep smiling and

front of the clubhouse around 4 pm. Everyone

always be happy!

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Village News

Onrus Manor

“When humans put their mind to it, anything is possible”

by Natasha Olivier

What a year 2020 has been – a year full of promise,

good things that lie ahead of us. We are the

packed with activities and socialising at the

changemakers, we are the difference – and it’s up

clubhouse, and then silence.

to all of us to rewrite the next chapter.

Covid-19 had arrived in South Africa and caused

To this end, at the village, the air is filled with

havoc in every single South African home. No wine

delight as residents are eagerly awaiting to return

tasting, no bridge, no going to the gym, no visiting

to their activities – quiz nights, bingo and gin

friends and families. The first few weeks were okay

tasting evenings.

– everyone occupied themselves with reading, decluttering our homes and those who were really

As we now move towards the end of the year with

adventurous tried their hand at new recipes.

our face masks in place, sanitiser in hand we say: “Here we are world, we made it.”

As lockdown continued, we started evolving and finding new ways of interacting with our friends

A big thank you to all our residents for being

and families. Many residents found the internet

patient, supportive and walking alongside us in

has so much to offer and have visited places that

this challenging time. May the rest of 2020 be

they never would have considered normally.

bright, colourful, full of fun and good health.

Zooming, hand sanitiser and face masks have become the new normal when you venture out of your home. We have become so good at the new normal that we quickly we started recognising people by their masks or their smiling eyes.

The world hit a pause – a reset if you will, and perhaps it was nature’s way of telling us to slow down and listen. Everyone, whether retired or not, is constantly busy running around to get the work (house, garden, washing) done, that we don’t see the beauty in everyday things. When was the last time you sat in your garden, closed your eyes and listened to the world around you? The birds singing, wind softly blowing through the trees and the buzz of insects in the garden. Just sitting in silence and being purposefully mindful of the surroundings?

We’ve bid goodbye to winter and welcome the warmer months with open arms – the brightness of each day holding the promise of all the

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Village News

Heritage Manor “Rediscovering the power of unity”

by Anthea Bosch

While the adjustments to the way we do simple, everyday things has been unrivalled, we have all been tasked with rethinking our approach to living. Everyone on the planet has been touched by the pandemic, and closer to home, everyone in our village – from our administrative staff to our residents. We’ve been taxed, tested and tried – but with the right attitude we have shown strength and our capabilities have increased.

The residents have continued to amaze and encourage me, with some making homemade masks and giving them out freely to all who needed, as the focus moved both to protect and to prevent the spread of the virus. Others were quick to offer assistance to those who were unable to go shopping, and many did so much to encourage and uplift their friends and neighbours by way of phone calls, text messages and emails.

The expression “a crisis brings both the best and worst out in people” is certainly true, as we have all witnessed over the past few months worldwide.

However, in our case, I have been overwhelmed by the best of people here as our healthcare workers and residents have been shown so much appreciation and gratitude. Little sincere gestures have made certain days special, and despite the enforced isolation people have felt a togetherness and a caring.

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In life, there is always a silver lining – sometimes it’s obvious, other times you have to look a little harder. As a result of the previous months’ rain our beautiful gardens are thriving and our dams have been filled. This means we will be sustainable over the coming months as we bask in the sunshine of spring, with the fragrances of jasmine and yesterday-today-tomorrow permeating the air.

As we enter into a new season and more relaxed restrictions, the relevant organisers are keenly getting ready to commence activities again. The dining room will once again be a hive of chatter and laughter with sit-down meals served once more in our clubhouse.

During this time, we have experienced a lot of movement in our village, having to say goodbye to some of our precious residents while also welcoming an entirely new group moving in.

We do look forward to getting to know everyone better now that we can move around more (although still with caution).

I wish to express my thanks and appreciation to all who have contributed in helping us during the last few months. While it may not have always been easy, our resilience has held us together through the worst of the storm.

Village News

Clé Du Cap

“We’re emerging fitter as a new season beckons”

by Lesley van Huyssteen

Everything has changed, including the season.

The Clubhouse has been reopened, albeit with

And, just like the Spring season, there are positive

strict social distancing rules in place. However,

signs that normality is returning in full bloom.

the reopening was still much to the delight of our residents. The mens and ladies snooker evening is

Residents’ humanity was on full display helping

following suit with table tennis and swimming still

each other through this unprecedented time.

highly popular during the early mornings and

But, as the restrictions are being more relaxed

late afternoons.

with time, everyone is emerging more positive and hopeful.

One interesting sentiment emerged during this time: For people considering retirement or a

Exercise was an imperative part of everyone’s

slower-paced lifestyle, it is important to have the

life at Cle Du Cap. It was wonderful to witness

support, safety and security like the residents at

how residents went out of their way to help one

Cle Du Cap cherish but particularly have relished

another with various activities and ensuring we

during the recent months.

adhered to social distancing practices. Walking around the village became a very popular activity.

For us, we are excited and look forward to the

In fact, one of the residents logged 200 km during

holiday season, which is a mere few weeks away.

this time.

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Village News

Noordhoek Manor “Together we have stood, together we have risen”

by Jenny Thompson

Over the past few months I have witnessed the

strolls picked up the refuse for those who did not

empathy and compassion people in our village

have a means of getting it to the garage.

have shown each another. They have gone beyond the call to help those struggling to deal with the

A vote of thanks also goes to Dirk Bertels who so

present circumstances and confinement.

kindly made sure that the pool cover was removed and replaced daily for those who chose to swim

I would love to extend my gratitude and heart-

during this time.

felt thanks to the community where my staff and I have had the privilege of being part of here at

We are so very proud of our residents that have

Noordhoek Manor. I would like to say to each and

embraced technology with such gusto and are

every one of you ‘Thank You’ for assisting where

now doing online shopping. With the installation

you could or even with that quick call offering

of Faircom Fibre our residents are able to stay

to help in any way that you could. I would like

connected with family and friends.

to extend a special thanks to our “Walkers”, Paul Norton, Otto Wieselthaler, Jon Wildman, Bucky

As we embrace a new season, we look forward to

Diemont, Sakkie Minnaar and Peter Fewell

new beginnings and longer days.

respectively, who whilst out on their morning

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Tokai Estate

Village News

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” - Eleanor Roosevelt

by Ann Steel

What a year this has been. Who would have envisioned that as we celebrated Christmas last year in peace and harmony that we would be facing what we have this year. We have done so however with tenacity and strength. Looking after our neighbours and friends in a time of lockdown.

Keeping in touch with one another by telephone, Zoom and email.

Now that restrictions have been lifted we face another challenge in embracing our new found freedom but still staying safe. I know as a community we will work together to ensure the continued safety of all and at the same time embrace the world around us. In our usual Tokai way we have as a community once again taken the reins of life and thrown ourselves into its adventures.

September saw us going to incredible gardens and open air spaces. Dylan Lewis’s famous sculpture gardens in Stellenbosch was first on our agenda.

The weather played along and residents took to the hills and walkways exploring magnificent pieces of art and wonderful fynbos plains.

What is a Cape Town spring without going to the Westcoast and admiring nature’s wonders with its natural riot of colours and beauty. This year the flowers exceeded all expectations due to the recently unprecedented rain Cape Town experienced. This turned into an excursion not to be missed - in fact it was so well received our bus did two trips and no one was left out. Professor Eric Harley was at the helm and as a result what went from being amateur viewing became an adventure extraordinaire. Lessons were taught and students learned and what fun everyone had.

Along with its exceptional wines and locally produced food offerings.

Once started on this journey of exploring our wonderful surroundings and the culinary delights of Stellenbosch our next excursion was to Glenelley. Residents explored the exquisite glassware collection which pays tribute to the owner’s lifelong passion for rare and contemporary glass. One of the largest privately-owned collections in the world including pieces by Salvador Dali. This was followed by a tasing of the beautifully crafted wines produced on the estate and a five-star lunch overlooking the vineyards. A resident comments: “What an absolutely fabulous time we had at Glennelly on Friday. Having the added interest of the Glass Museum on a wine tasting outing made it so interesting. The restaurant and food were outstanding. Thank you very much for organising this.”

We were also lucky enough to have the honour of enjoying a privately hosted evening at Ellerman House.

After Canapes and Brut, an art tour of one of the best collections of South African art (1830 to now) by a top art guide Talita Swarts. The exquisite three-course meal with wine pairings was followed by a talk about the conversion of this Edwardian home into one of South Africa’s top small hotels by architect, Jane Visser.

A rather nice end to 2020 saw us being recognised as the Best Luxury Retirement Development in South Africa.

The vision of Mike Vietri who saw what can be achieved in providing a space that speaks to people who want to enjoy a certain lifestyle. As a team we feel privileged to be part of this ideal.

Food and wine are never far from a Tokai agenda and in October we had our first fine dining experience where residents were treated to a threecourse dinner that received excellent feedback from guests who attended. Our chefs have taken the concept of creating this sort of experience to heart and worked extremely hard to provide a menu of the highest calibre.

Babylonstoren, always a firm favourite, was revisited with the same enthusiasm as usual for the world renowned garden. The garden is a reference and an homage to Cape Town’s famous Company’s Garden and the mysterious hanging gardens of Babylon and each year residents reacquaint themselves with its beauty and diversity.

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All of Nature’s Wonder Discover Western Cape’s wildlife

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Animal Life

It’s a Jungle Out There 4 Wildlife Species You Could Encounter in Cape Town Cape Town is renowned for a plethora of things –

Himalayan Tahr

it’s cosmopolitan cityscape and premium wines.

If you ever see a peculiar, goat-like animal trotting

But, there’s also rich biodiversity and wildlife that’s

the slopes of Table Mountain, consider yourself

as curious about us as we are about them. Let’s

lucky that you’ve stumbled upon the infamous

meet four of the mother city’s wildlife that you

Himalayan Tahr (Hemitragus Jemlahicus). These

may just run into while you explore the city.

ungulates (hoofed animals) are native to northern India, southern Tibet, China and Nepal. These

Dassie

exotic goats found themselves on Table Mountain

Fondly also known as the rock rabbit or coney

after a couple of them escaped from the Groote

but more commonly known as the dassie, the

Schuur Zoo in the 1930s. The environmental

rock hyrax (Procavia capensis) is a medium-sized

similarities between Table Mountain and the

terrestrial mammal native to Africa and parts

Tahr’s natural Himalayan habit – steep, rocky

of the Middle East. It’s a very social animal that

mountains and dotted with woodlands resulted in

lives in big groups – sometimes comprising up to

them thriving.

80 dassies. These furry, brown creatures have 21 different vocal signals to effectively communicate

Where to spot them: On Table Mountain, if you’re

imminent danger. Its favourite thing to do is to

a really skilled hiker.

lay on the sun-drenched rocks of Table Mountain.

Fun fact: The Himalayan Tahrs are one of three

This is largely due to the fact that, although they

species of tahr.

are classified as mammals, they are unable to fully regulate their temperature, hence the sun lounging.

Where to spot them: All over Table Mountain and Cape Point.

Fun fact: Dassies share a common ancestor with elephants and sea cows.

Optatenis quodit lupturis sinvent ut Himalayan Tahr Dassie 52

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Animal Life Baboon Chacma Baboons are mischievous in every sense of the word. From purses to sandwiches they have truly lived up to their modus operandi of ‘grab-and-go’. Add to that their penchant for having social family gatherings in the busy roads, and it quickly becomes clear that they are more strategic in their thinking than meets the eye. They communicate via distinctive grunts and barks, calling repetitively. A word of caution: Don’t approach a baboon and don’t flash any food when in their habitat as they do tend to get handsy, and sometimes aggressive.

Where to spot them: The most popular spot is Cape Point.

Fun fact: The baboons in the Cape are said to be the only baboons in the world that indulge in seafood.

Chacma Baboons

Selected resources: Carolynne Geary, Africa Geographic, ‘Cape Town’s urban wildlife – 9 species to see!’, www.africageographic.com/stories/capetowns-urban-wildlife-nine-species/ Kate Black, The Table Mountain Fund, ‘The Himalayan Tahrs of Table Mountain’, www.thetablemountainfund.org.za/thehimalayan-tahrs-of-table-mountain/

Cape Fur Seal Cape Fur Seal

a fur seal colony of approximately 55,000 seals.

Cape Fur Seals (Arctocephalus pusillus) are the

The harbours of Kalk Bay, Hout Bay and the V&A

largest of all seal varieties. They relish frolicking

Waterfront are where they are most prevalent.

in the water and are almost as social and playful

Want to get up close and personal? Then, you

as dogs. But, don’t let this carefree demeanour

have to visit Hout Bay where you can go dive with

fool you as they can be quite territorial on land,

these socially engaging seals.

with males weighing up to 300 kg. They mostly

Fun fact: Cape Fur Seals can dive to depths in

feed on shoaling fish, octopus, squid and rays and

excess of 200m and can hold their breath for

generally hunt alone.

seven-and-a-half minutes.

Where to spot them: Adjacent to Dyer Island

Did you know? The Cape Fur Seal is now officially

near Gansbaai is Geyser Rock that has amassed

called the South African fur seal.

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Animal Life

Our feathered friends

“A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song.”

– Maya Angelou With a clear sense of purpose, you do not need to reason every action you take, because every choice that you make comes authentically. And, what better choice to make than being in nature enjoying the sightings and sounds of the vast array of bird species our province has to offer?

We’ve compiled a list of bird species you could spot when next you’re outdoors.

Cape Town Table Mountain National Park Look out for these birds: Verreaux’s Eagles, Streaky-headed Seedeater and Grey-backed Cisticola.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens Look out for these birds: Orange-breasted Sunbird, Olive Woodpecker and Spotted Flycatcher.

Simon’s Town and Boulders Beach Look out for these birds: African Penguin, Swift Terns and African Black Oystercatchers.

Orange-breasted Sunbird Overberg The Cape Whale Coast Look out for these birds: Blue Crane, Denham’s Bustards and Cape-Rock-jumper.

Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens Look out for these birds: African Paradise Flycatcher, Southern Boubou and Cape Grassbird Kleinmond and the Botrivier Estuary Look out for these birds: Western Osprey, Eurasian Oystercatcher and African Openbill

Blue Crane Garden Route Garden of Eden Look out for these birds: Knysna Turaco, Yellow-throated Woodland-Warbler and African Emerald Cuckoo The Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve Look out for these birds: Bar-throated Apalis, Yellow Bishop and Bokmakierie The Tsitsikamma National Park Look out for these birds: Giant Kingfishers, Half-collared Kingfisher and African Finfoot

Giant Kingfisher

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Selected resources: Western Cape birding: www.westerncapebirding.co.za/, Cape Bird Club: www.capebirdclub.org.za/, Birdlife: www.birdlife.org.za/go-birding/ birding-routes/birding-routes-western-cape/

My little Garden Seed, Soil and Sun

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Gardening

Fancy yourself a green thumb?

Dig into gardening with this handy planting calendar for mapping out when to plant your favourite fruit and vegetables.

Gardening is one of the most rewarding and relaxing hobbies that you can undertake. And, even if you don’t consider yourself a green thumb, understanding the seasonal calendar for planting fruit and vegetables can go a long way to a successful and flowering garden.

January

February

Beans (climbing); Broccoli; Brussel Sprouts;

Beans (bush); Cabbage; Carrots; Celery;

Cabbage; Carrots; Cauliflower

Lettuce; Potatoes

March

April

Celery; Parsnip; Potatoes; Radish; Swiss Chard;

Peas; Potatoes; Radish; Swiss chard;

Spinach

Spinach; Onions

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May

June

Lettuce; Onion; Parsnip; Peas; Potatoes; Radish

Corn; Onion; Parsnip; Peas; Potatoes; Radish

July

August

Beetroot; Celery; Parsnip; Peas; Potatoes; Radish

Eggplant; Lettuce; Parsnip; Peas; Peppers; Potatoes

September

October

Melons; Parsnip; Peppers; Potatoes;

Beans (Climbing); Beetroot; Celery; Corn;

Tomato; Watermelon

Cucumber; Pumpkin

November

December

Beetroot; Cabbage; Corn; Cucumber;

Cabbage; Cauliflower; Corn; Cucumber;

Lettuce; Melons

Lettuce; Melons

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Gardening

A 5-step guide to growing fresh herbs at home Even if you’ve never grown anything in your

ground e.g. a garden bed. It prefers a sunnier

life, herbs are a great way to start your

growing disposition but can tolerate some shade.

gardening journey.

Parsley (flat-leafed) Parsley thrives in well-drained soil and in moist

Herbs are considered the easiest edibles to grow

areas with semi-shade. From a flavour-profile

– and for beginner gardeners, this is indeed good

point of view, flat-leafed parsley is generally

news. We compiled five simple steps to help you

preferred over its curly-leafed peer because it

to grow your own herbs.

offers more flavour to dishes.

Step 1: Get picky, choose your pots

Step 3: Ditch the seeds, use starter plants

Choose pots that you think will best suit the

If you’re a patient gardener, then, by all means,

herb you’re intending to grow and place it in

opt for herb seeds. But, if you’re keen to see your

convenient, easy-to-reach places around your

herb garden take off, opt for starter plants. It will

home. This ensures that once they have started to

save you a growing or incubation period of up to

take shape, they are easily accessible to add some

three weeks. Using starter plants also increases

intense or delicate flavour (herb dependent) to

your chances of a successful yield as seeds require

your favourite pasta, meat or chicken dish.

frequent attention and just the right mix of

Top Tip: A suitable pot has to have sufficient

growing conditions to start growing.

drainage otherwise you risk your herbs getting waterlogged – the resulting factor is root rot.

Step 2: Choose your herbs

Step 4: Not all soils are made equal Potting soil should be used instead of compost and/or lawn dressing. Potting soil provides a

When you’re starting out it’s advised that while

nutrient-dense composite that a growing herb

you’re finding your green thumb you opt for herbs

plant needs. It also drains water more effectively

that are easy to grow. Some of these include mint,

as it is more porous and ensures your budding

basil and parsley. But, no matter the herb you

herbs don’t get waterlogged.

choose, you’ll need to understand which growing conditions they prefer. Let’s take look at the

Step 5: Caring for your herbs

preferred growing conditions for mint, basil

Herbs require consistent and regular check-ins.

and parsley.

Inspect them frequently and if you notice any changes, take the required action. Set aside time

Basil

each day as part of your mindfulness exercise to

Basil loves a sunny location and will flourish in

take care of your herbs.

nutrient-rich soil that is watered frequently.

Mint

Herbs are fragrant and add colour to your home,

Mint is a bit of a loner and prefers to grow in its

and once you start cooking with fresh herbs, you’ll

own pot and above the ground, if planted in the

never want to be without them again.

Selected resources: MasterClass (2020) ‘How to Grow a Home Herb Garden: Gardening Guide for Growing Herbs Indoors’ www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-grow-a-home-herb-garden-gardening-guidefor-growing-herbs-indoors#how-to-create-an-indoor-herb-garden-in-4-steps, Cnet (2020) ‘5 easy steps to growing fresh herbs at home while you’re in quarantine’ www.cnet.com/how-to/5easy-steps-to-growing-fresh-herbs-at-home-while-youre-in-quarantine/, Jennifer Poindexter, Morning Chores, ‘3 Easy Steps to Growing Herbs Indoors (and 5 Herb Garden Inspiration)’, www.morningchores.com/growing-herbs-indoors/

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Tokai Estate Award ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

Dear Faircape Retirement Team, We are happy to inform you that your company has been recognised as an exemplary representative of the luxury Real Estate services industry.

After a thorough research process, Tokai Estate has been distinguished as one of the best in this market. Your impeccable reputation, professional performance and craftmanship have been recognized and acknowledged. Now we are pleased to announce, that in accordance with the results of the study, Tokai Estate has become a Winner of Luxury Lifestyle Awards in the category of Retirement The Best Luxury Retirement Development in South Africa!

Please accept our heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Organizing Committee of Luxury Lifestyle Awards upon achieving such a great result and getting your efforts recognized and celebrated. We wish your company to reach new levels of prosperity and conquer even bigger heights. We will be happy to see you among our participants next year.

Organizing Committee of Luxury Lifestyle Awards

The Best Luxury Retirement Development in South Africa.

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Games

Puzzles Answers

Medium

Medium

Hard

Hard 60

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GUERNSEY

A Short Story by Clé Du Cap Resident, Patricia Gallow

Under Occupation The Channel Islands of Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm lie much closer to France than England and on a clear day one can see the coast of France from Guernsey. Each of the islands has its own story to tell of the Second World War but this is my story of living on Guernsey. It is obvious now that it was inevitable that the Germans would take the islands after sweeping across France but as as 12-year old I didn’t realise what was in store for the next five long years. The month of June 1940 was an anxious and chaotic time of panic and indecision. It was decided that the children would be evacuated first but my mother decided, because my father was in the British Expeditionary Force somewhere in France that she didn’t want the family divided three ways, so the plan was to all leave together on the first available ship.

But events overtook our plans.

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Short Story

Scratching for food and fuel Recently someone asked me what what stood out most for me when I look back on the five years of occupation.

My reply was the shortages – sometimes real hunger – were the salient feature. When I look back on it now the occupation seems to have been one long search for food. Our nips, turnips, carrots, coffee made from acorns and tea from blackberry leaves. There was no meat and very little fish as the Germans had restricted fishing. We queued for hours for 400g of parsnips, cycled kilometers for anything edible. We scratched around the stubble after the harvest for ears of wheat and tried to produce precious flour. To me the most ignominious task I ever performed was picking up potatoes from the road as the Germans unloaded a truck outside their Field Kitchen.

We kept rabbits to provide the The Germans landed and there we were - little realising what lies ahead. The first Germans to arrive were the pick of their army – very smart and arrogant, and it was absolutely galling to see them walking around emptying the shops of everything they could find to ship back to their families. Soon the shops were empty and the islanders had to resort to bartering. ‘boots for flour’, ‘watch for cigarettes’, ‘longsleeved jumper for sugar’ were advertisements that appeared in the local newspaper. I can remember bartering my brother’s Hornby train set for 4,5 kg of beans. How one’s values change.

occasional treat but they were at risk so had to be lugged into the house for protection and foraging to feed them was another food hunting chore. Another horrible job was collecting wood to literally keep the home fires burning.

We had bought an old pram which we used to carry home branches that we then had to coax alight with bellows,

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Short Story done over wood fires or in hayboxes as there was no

This resulted in the Steamer HMS Vega

electricity or gas, and for lighting we used cresolene

sailing from Portugal with 750 tons of stores

lamps and a light fabricated from an old tin with

and berthing at our harbour St Peter Port

an improvised wick leading down to paraffin

on 28 December 1944. Crowds stood on the

soaked cottonwool. I studied for my school Leaving

quayside as she steamed in. Parcels supplied

Certificate by that light.

by New Zealand and Canada were distributed.

Behaviour

It seemed like Chrnada were distributed. It seemed like Christmas as such lovely things were unpacked - coffee, tea, chocolate, jam,

On the whole we tried not to let the whole

cheese, and tinned meat. The Vega came

situation get us down. There were films - French

every month from then on and there is no

and German - with the audience separated by

doubt that it was her arrival that saved the

a bar down the centre of the cinema. Germans

islanders from starvation in the grim year of

on one side and civilians on the other with the

1945. By this time the Germans were also in a

girls we called ‘Hunrunners’ trying to attract the

bad way. The earlier arrogant ones had been

attention of their German sweethearts. There were

replaced by older men and young boys. They

also amateur dramatics, shows and concerts. I

too had to forage for themselves, going out at

danced in some of them and had a cheerful time

night breaking into barns and private homes.

in rehearsals and performances. I must admit that

Cats and dogs and our rabbits we had to take

the Germans’ behaviour to the civilians, as long as

inside were all at risk.

we toed the line, was always correct. According to one estimate 18,000 foreign workers had arrived

Surrender

by the beginning of 1942. They were people of all nations and all backgrounds from professionals to

By Monday 7 May, 1945 the whole world knew

released criminals and apart from their dreadful

the war in Europe was virtually over but the

working conditions they lived in empty houses with

German Commandant on Guernsey vowed to

no furniture and slept on the floor. We occasionally

fight but in the end he boarded HMS Bulldog

caught glimpses of them in tattered clothes and

to surrender. We were overjoyed to see the

feet bound in rags and cuttings of old tyres.

first handful of our troops arrive. They were welcomed with open arms and as the days

There were scary moments when rumours spread

progressed more troops arrived with more

that all English born people were to be evacuated

supplies of necessities. These were glorious

but we escaped as we had no man as head of

times, made even happier by the arrival of

the house. There was great sadness when the

letters, news and gifts from relatives. Gradually

deportees left not knowing their fate. But we later

life returned to normal but families that had

learned that they had been sent to passable prison

been separated for five years sometimes took

camps and were kept pretty well supplied with food

time to adjust. The German garrison was

by the Red Cross.

shipped to England, the foreign workers left

Towards the end

and the evacuees returned. Over the years memories of the German Occupation have dimmed but never does May 9 1945 pass

The invasion of France increased Guernsey’s

without prayers of thanksgiving. The 2020

suffering. Food scarcity increased, Red Cross

celebrations were particularly poignant as 75

messages ceased and winter was approaching.

years have passed since that wonderful day. I

However the Red Cross came to the rescue after an

would dearly like to have been there but sadly

urgent appeal had been sent through German and

the anniversary didn’t take place due to a

Swedish authorities.

lockdown of another kind.

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Short Story

We were overjoyed to see the first handful of our troops arrive.

This article was written by Patricia Gallow with a shortened version supplied by Joan Heming.

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