So long, Farewell

(Gem, don't cry) :) I've been reminded of our big departure exactly 6 years ago to the day, in August of 2002. Savannah was 18 months old and off we went with all our earthly possessions and many tears shed. I can't believe how quickly time has gone. I'm amazed that our family has expanded to almost 5 and that we've accomplished all that we set out to do and more. As of now, we've lived more of our married lives in Holland than out, our children are more Dutch than they are South African (although, we don't see it that way) AND, we still own South African passports:) Life has been fun, life has been hard, but I have no regrets.

My sweet little sister, Gemma and her new husband, Gavin are making a huge step in their new lives together this week. They're heading downunder to the new South Africa, called Australia. In a strange way, I've been feeling quite emotional about this whole thing. I feel like I'm going to really miss her (even though I live in Holland and she lives in South Africa). It's the time difference, I suppose. Up until now, I've been able to email, phone, sms and get a response pretty soon afterwards, if not right there and then! It's going to be a little different from now. Another reason I feel this way, is I know how hard it is for family who stay behind. It's hard and it's sad to say goodbye. Gem, making the break is down right hard. Don't try and squash it and pretend it's not there. Embrace your feelings and go with the flow. Leaving the home of your birth is a serious stress, never mind leaving a wonderful, big, beautiful, strong family too. Even though you won't have them there physically, you have their support and love wherever you are. They're only a phonecall or skype away. Take what you have from your wonderful upbringing and make it work in a new land with a new husband and great in-laws who will take you in and help you and love you through this change. You don't realise how blessed you are to have this resource and support. We did it a little differently--a foreign speaking country, cold climate, very little sun, no family, but it's worked and it's been fantastic. We have had opportunities to grow in so many new and wonderful ways which we probably wouldn't have had, had we stayed in South Africa. You two are young, you have so much ahead of you. Enjoy this, see it as a long holiday! Take lots of pictures and video. You'll look back on this time and laugh at how young and naive you were!!

Here are some top survival tips from your big sis:

1. Your new country never replaces your home country, but remember, home is wherever the mail is delivered. When things get tough, remember your family now is you and Gavin.
2. Have something to look forward to--perhaps you might not be able to make it back to South Africa for a while in the beginning, but try and save up for a getaway somewhere. You have the whole of Australia to discover!
3. Plan your trip back 'home' and use that to help you when you feel down.
4. Enjoy what your new country has to offer. Enjoy the national holidays and try and be a part of your community. Everyone back home will love to hear about all the differences and similaries.
5. Build traditions now. You'll be amazed how they comfort and build and bless your lives.
6. Keep in regular contact with family. Your blog will be a wonderful way for all of us to 'see' you.
7. Get involved with a group e.g. South African club, church etc. You'll make friends so quickly and before you know it, you'll feel more at home.
8. See this as your chance to leave the nest and really fly. Take courses, learn, get out of your comfort zones, make this the best time of your lives.
9. Do the good old South African thing. Have braais, buy chutney and ghost pops and don't lose that cute little accent you have!
10. Email / phone whenever you want. I've been through what you're just about to do. Lucky for you, you have a mother-in-law who will open her arms and give you a love whenever you need it.
11. Goodbyes are never easy, no matter how long you've lived abroad. When it's finally time to say goodbye after a holiday or family's visits, there's a lump in your throat and the tears just come!
12. Give yourself lots of time to adjust. You'll probably only feel fully settled in 2 years time. You'll find yourself counting the months in the beginning and will eventually lose count and find your rhythm.
13. You're still South African, so shout for the SPRINGBOKS!
14. HAVE FUN. We love you and would love to come and visit.

All the best on Thursday. And good luck, Mum, Dad, Hails, Jerry, Shea, Vernon, Jess and Hunter, Tayg, and Kels. Soooo glad I'm not going to be there for the goodbyes!