Donate your threads, Daisies!
THE STREET STORE: LET’S HELP CLOTHE ALL THE DAISIES IN ST FRANCIS BAY
The indignities of poverty are profound, multifaceted and often disguised behind the public ‘face’ of poverty. Truthfully, how many of us have wondered what happens beyond our cash donations and clothing drop-offs at the local thrift store? As morally uncomfortable as it may be, have we ever put ourselves in the position of someone who has no idea where their next meal will come from, or how they will survive the next chilly night with threadbare clothes? Imagine what it must feel like to have no choice in what you receive or what shape your gifted clothes come in.
Well, thankfully for us at Dune Daisies, all of our readers out there, and for the over half a million fortunate recipients across the globe, an amazing team in Cape Town have. Enter the Street Store, the world’s first ‘free’ store for the homeless and those in need. Created in 2014, by M&C Saatchi Abel’s Kayli Levitan and Max Pazak, the Street Store aims to provide a unique ‘shopping’ experience, one which restores dignity and pride to the act of receiving clothing donations. To date, over 1000 stores in 100s of cities across the globe have sprung up on street corners, in community halls and school playgrounds – anywhere where there is a need and a free space to set up ‘shop’.
The concept is beautifully simple. Anyone can host a Street Store by registering on www.thestreetstore.org and taking the Street Store pledge. They are then given free access to downloadable & printable cardboard designs. These documents are available in over 14 languages – testimony to this initiative’s global reach. Once the printed cardboard hangers are ready, the donated items are hung up (in whatever ‘free’ space has been chosen) and a shopping experience is created. Volunteers then help ‘customers’ to browse the options and choose desired clothing, all in a safe, relaxed, dignified environment.
What’s more, St Francis Bay will boast its very own Street Store next month. We caught up with Sam Harpur, of local NPO Heart-Strings, who is the driving force behind hosting this incredible initiative.
DD: Hi Sam, Dune Daisies heard that you are the inspiration behind bringing the Street Store to St Francis Bay. Can you tell our readers exactly what the Street Store is?
Sam: The Street store is a concept that originated in Cape Town and has become a global success story. It is the world’s first rent-free, premises-free, free pop-up clothing store for those in need. It gives those in need the dignity of a shopping experience without having to pay for anything. Everyone deserves the opportunity to choose clothing instead of just getting clothes handed down to them.
DD: What made you want to bring this concept to our home town?
Sam: We were fortunate enough to get invited to a talk by Mike Abel from M&C Saatchi Abel, as part of a Client Care investment function. It was during this talk that Mike introduced the Street Store concept as one of his passionate community projects. When we heard about it, we immediately felt that it could be a project that would make a meaningful difference in the lives of our community members. And so the 1002nd Street Store, in St Francis Bay, was created.
DD: You mentioned while we were chatting that you plan to meet with key community leaders to discuss how to make sure that the items reach those who need them the most.
Sam: We are in the process of coming up with an invitation system. We will be working with community leaders to identify the community members who are in the most desperate situations and then extend an invitation to these people. We don’t want a situation whereby we only have sufficient clothes to assist 100 people and have 500 arrive on the day. Logistically it could be tricky to manage large crowds of expectant people.
DD: Has this type of community work been a long-time passion of yours?
Sam: We have always had a heart for people and reaching out but really felt a strong call to make a meaningful difference when moving to St Francis Bay. We love that we can live in a small town and invest our efforts into our community.
DD: Can you tell our readers more about the other work that you and your partners are doing in the community? (keep an eye out for future posts delving deeper into what these awesome ladies are busy with)
Sam: Our Non-Profit Company called Heart-Strings has been born out of a love for community and has recently been officially registered. We are 3 women, having moved to St Francis, that have a common heart and different passions. Kim Cornish, a nurse, has a heart for well-being initiatives in the community. Nicola Lyle, a High School Teacher, is passionate about making a difference with the youth and hopefully investing her effort into the future high school we foresee in St Francis Bay. I am Early Childhood Development trained and determined to create a stronger foundation at the grassroots level and am passionate about increasing early literature exposure.
DD: So, how can our readers help with the Street Store? Do you need volunteers or donations – what can we do?
Sam: Our most immediate need is for the donation of clothing, without clothing we don’t have a Street Store. We are appealing for men’s, women’s and children’s clothing. Items can be dropped off at the Client Care Offices in the Old Village Shopping Centre, behind Calibre Security and next to Off The Menu Restaurant.
We are also always looking for extra sets of hands to sort clothing, to assist in organizing the event and assist us on the day.
DD: Can any kind of clothing be donated?
Sam: We would be so grateful for any and every bit of clothing including shoes, hats, bags and jackets. We will sort them by gender, size and type.
DD: What if we have items that are not in great condition – should we bring them along anyway?
Sam: We are appealing for items that are still in good condition as we really want this to be an opportunity for these community members to choose lovely items of clothing that they would be proud to wear.
DD: We heard you may be sharing more at the SFB Brewery’s next Story Slam – can you tell us a bit about that?
Sam: Yes, we are very excited to have been invited to the next Story Slam on the 20th of July. My husband, Frank, will be sharing information about the Street Store and how our community can get involved. There will be an opportunity to drop off donated items at this event.
DD: Can you suggest any additional sources that keen readers can follow up on?
Sam: We have recently been awarded the distribution rights, for our area, for an incredible early literature program called Book Dash. We have over 326 children in the Sea Vista Community that will be receiving their own books in the next few weeks. These books are in English and their home language. The website is www.bookdash.org. This is a great resource for free digital children’s books. I have also been reading an incredible book called Mission Possible by Tim Tebow. It is a great book of faith, living mission-minded and finding your purpose.
Know your daisy
I was born in Johannesburg in 1983. I am very lucky to be a wife to Frank and mother to Madison (14) and Troy (12). We have three furry family members – Satara, Kyra and Chloe. We relocated to SFB 1 ½ years ago, post covid, and have been establishing a beautiful life in our small town. Having chosen a complete reset, we are investing our time into our children, building our businesses and community projects that are close to our hearts. We love the outdoors, especially adventuring into the African bushveld at every opportunity we can get and exploring our new backyard (the Eastern Cape).
I love running and feel blessed every time I put my takkies on and get to run around our scenic beach town, it still takes my breath away (because of its beauty and because I am unfit). My favourite place in St Francis is Bruce’s Coffee Shop where we can sip on a delicious cappuccino while we look out onto our magnificent ocean. In my downtime, I enjoy reading, spending time with my precious family and watching my daughter horse ride and my son play soccer.
So to all the Dune Daisy readers out there (and your aunties, friends & neighbours), this is a call to action to gather up your unwanted and unused clothes and donate them to this amazing cause – you will be helping not only the environment (Small Town Swaps & Sustainably Dressed Daisies – Dune Daisies ) but also the less fortunate who call this beautiful place home.
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The Africanis - Strolling our Dunes
“The Africanis is the real African dog – shaped by Africa for Africa. It is part of the cultural and biological heritage of Southern Africa.”
Gallant
An ancient breed
The Africanis dog breed, also known as the African dog or African pariah dog is a remarkable and resilient breed that has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Highly valued for their hunting skills, loyalty, and ability to adapt to harsh environments, the Africanis breed can trace its roots back to ancient times.
Result of Natural Selection
“The Africanis is the result of natural selection and physical and mental adaption to environmental conditions. It has not been ‘selected’ or ‘bred’ for appearance. For centuries, the fittest and cleverest dogs survived to give us one of the rarest remaining natural dog landraces in the world.”
“Africanis is well disposed without being obtrusive: a friendly dog, showing watchful, territorial behaviour.”
Gallant
Intelligent and Loyal
Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability, Africanis dogs are highly trainable and eager to please their owners. Despite their independent nature, they form strong bonds with their families and are known to be gentle and affectionate.
Robust and Healthy
Due to their long history of natural, not human selection (i.e. not bred to specific breed standards like many Western dogs), Africanis dogs are generally healthy and robust. They have developed a strong immune system and are resistant to many common canine diseases. With proper care, they can live up to 12-15 years, making them a long-lasting and loyal companion.
Resilient and Adaptable
One of the most remarkable characteristics of the Africanis breed is its adaptability to various environments. These dogs have evolved to survive in diverse climates, from the scorching deserts of North Africa to the humid rainforests of Central Africa. Their ability to thrive in different conditions makes them an ideal choice for owners living in a wide range of climates.
Hunters and Problem Solvers
The Africanis breed has a strong prey drive and exceptional hunting skills. They are agile and quick, making them excellent at chasing and capturing small game. Their natural instincts and intelligence make them adept at problem-solving, making them valuable working dogs in various roles, including search and rescue, tracking, and even as guard dogs.
Despite their historical significance and unique characteristics, the Africanus breed has faced challenges in recent years. The rise of modern dog breeds and the introduction of foreign breeds have threatened its survival. However, there are dedicated individuals and organizations working tirelessly to preserve and promote the Africanis breed. These efforts include breeding programs, education, and raising awareness about the breed’s importance and value.
Dig Deeper
Dogs became domesticated about 15000 years ago.
Evidence of domestic dogs in Southern Africa
- 570 AD – Diamante farm near Botswana border.
- 650 AD – Lower Tugela valley
- 800 AD – Cape St. Francis Khoisan settlement
Dune Reading
- Johan Gallant. The Story of the African Dog (2002)
- Van Sittert, L and Swart, S (eds.) Canis Africanis: A Dog History of Southern Africa (2008)
- The Africanis Society of Southern Africa – Johan Gallant and Joseph Sithole
Township dog vs. Africanis?
The Africanis dog has existed in South Africa for well over a thousand years. It is a resilient and strong breed in that only strongest survive. Although township dogs can be Africanis, especially in rural areas, they are more often Africanis mixes. As more Western pure breed dogs are brought into townships, the strong lineage of the Africanis is diluted by the less robust pure bred animal.
Susan Rae Fox and the St. Francis Animal Rescue
Anyone who has spent time in St Francis has come across the St Francis Animal Rescue, whether it be at the market, on Facebook, at a fundraiser or even if you have ever driven through Sea Vista on a Thursday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm.
Susan Rae Fox is one of our very special daisies in town. She started this organization seven years ago and has achieved mind-blowing results, having touched so many lives in this community, both furry and human (we even have a four-legged daisy as part of our Dune Daisy team, Milly).
Dune Daisies couldn’t not feature this fabulous lady and the St Francis Animal Rescue.
DD: How long have you been running the St Francis Animal Rescue and where were you before coming here?
SRF: Before coming to St Francis Bay, I lived in Durban where I was Managing Director of an advertising and marketing agency. I retired to St Francis Bay with every intention of spending my time writing books and completed four, before establishing St Francis Animal Rescue in 2016. I set up this charity to do my best to help the great many neglected, starving, unsterilized dogs wandering the streets of Sea Vista
DD:We know you do so much for the dogs and cats in Sea Vista, could you tell our readers more about what the St Francis Animal Rescue does?
SRF: In 7 years, St Francis Animal Rescue has made a very significant difference in the lives of cats and dogs living in Sea Vista. We have changed the diet of the majority of cats and dogs. Where once they used to eat table scraps, bread and pap, and forage the streets, these animals now eat pellets which we subsidize and sell into Sea Vista Spaza Stores so that the food is available and affordable.
We sterilize approximately 4-6 dogs per week. Cats are also sterilized regularly, though in smaller numbers. Many are feral cats, trapped by our Cat Lady, Jodi Kruger who works tirelessly to keep St Francis Bay free of unsterilized ferals.
We have removed over 70 dogs from chains by building fences around their properties to keep them safe and stop them from roaming – a principal reason why most dogs are chained. We vaccinate 50 pups and adult dogs every month to keep them safe from life threatening diseases. We also vaccinate against Rabies and through two campaigns have vaccinated over 850 dogs to prevent the spread of this lethal disease.
St Francis Animal Rescue responds to calls for help for medical care, particularly for dogs who have been injured in car accidents, wounded through cruelty and abuse and burned. We take sick dogs and pups for medical attention and provide home visits to monitor their progress. Our welfare vet is the Humansdorp Vet Clinic where a team of caring vets and nurses help treat all dogs and puppies in need of medical help.
We regularly remove dogs and pups from neglect and cruelty and do everything possible to rehabilitate and rehome them with loving families. Over the years hundreds of dogs from Sea Vista have been rehomed throughout the Eastern Cape and even beyond into Gauteng and Cape Town. The challenges we face result from extreme poverty and lack of education. People continue to breed pups as a means of providing an income to feed families. Cruelty is rife, not only inflicted upon dogs, but children and women.
DD: What are some of the greatest challenges you face?
SRF: One of the greatest challenges we face, is to persuade people to bring their dogs indoors at night to keep them safe and to develop a stronger bond with the family. Dogs left outside are at the mercy of the weather and are often stabbed or hurt by drug users and drunkards coming home late from the taverns.
The way we overcome this challenge is to regularly bath and groom dogs to keep them clean and treat them for fleas and ticks. Once clean and brushed, it is much easier to persuade owners to bring their dogs inside at night. Each dog is given a blanket to sleep on, once they are indoors.
Another challenge is to prevent an influx of puppies and adult dogs coming in from Humansdorp, JBay, PE etc. Our sterilization program is seriously compromised by people bringing pups and dogs from outside areas, so that our numbers of breeding dogs continue to grow, no matter how many we spay and neuter. Some of these from PE etc, are pedigree breeds like Huskies, Boerboels, Jack Russells and Border Collies. None of these breeds do well in Sea Vista and it becomes our problem to do our best to sterilize them so that they cannot breed.
DD: How can locals get involved (what kind of volunteer opportunities are there)?
SRF: In terms of Volunteer opportunities, St Francis Animal Rescue is always looking for new animal lovers to join our team.
We run an outreach every Thursday afternoon (2pm-4pm), where we feed, vaccinate, spray pups and adult dogs for fleas and ticks and deworm all puppies.
- We vaccinate pups on the first Thursday of every month and provide basic wound care for cuts, burns, bites and ear and eye problems.
- We regularly treat and heal dogs with mange problems.
- Pups and adult dogs are bathed and groomed at our bath station.
Volunteers are always needed at our outreaches.
We have a team of transporters who take dogs from a specific pickup point every Wednesday and Thursday to the SPCA Assisi in Humansdorp, to be sterilized. Transporters are invaluable though they need to have a spacious vehicle to transport dogs in crates, two per car.
Our fundraising team is also in need of volunteers. We work together to devise ways and means to raise funds to support our charity and ensure it’s sustainability.
This is one of the greatest challenges we face and it is difficult to continually raise funds in a small village with many people suffering from donor fatigue.
DD: Any happy or fascinating stories that really stand out in your memory?
SRF: There are more stories about experiences in rescue than I have time to tell. One which is particularly memorable is the following.
We work a great deal rescuing Pitbulls from horrific cruelty. In one instance, a male Pitbull, chained for a long time, was regularly beaten with sticks. We approached the owners and attempted to negotiate a way for him to be removed from a chain. We offered to construct a fence and gate and provide a large kennel for him.
The owners refused all offers of assistance and became rude and threatening. We asked the SPCA for assistance and their inspector left ‘letters of warning’ at the house
At our wits end, we convinced a friend to dress up as a policeman, visit the house and ‘confiscate’ the Pitbull, which he did. We kept Jock in kennels for 3 months to put on weight and had him assessed by dog trainer, Philip Van Heerden, who judged him to be gentle, despite years of suffering from monstrous cruelty.
Jock was adopted into the happiest home and has been living a wonderful life for many years.
In a similar case, Reg was a male Pitbull used for breeding. He was chained to a filthy mattress, surrounded by his own faeces, and left in a dirty courtyard, without food and water. A neighbour alerted us once the owner went away for a weekend.
With help, we cut through the gate padlock and sawed through Reg’s chain and removed him to kennels. After a bath and a good meal, he looked a different dog.
Reg now lives the happiest life in Bathurst with a bachelor who loves this dog like a child.
DD: What are the annual fundraisers to look forward to?
Our Golf Day is coming up, and this is our primary Fund Raiser every year. We will be hosting our usual Bingo Nights, Cake Sales and collaborative promotions with key sponsors. Coming up at the end of the month is our Flowers through the Homes event on July 29th. We are also celebrating Mandela month by trying to collect 67 bags of dog and cat food.
The St Francis Animal Rescue website is very comprehensive and has all the details about volunteering and upcoming events. Be sure to check it out – we even have a dog blog!
A daisy's best friend - Milly, the Africanis
Milly’s Story
My life in St Francis is brilliant, some would even call it privileged. I have a soft bed and am never cold at night, my belly is always full and best of all, I am loved. My favourite activities are beach walks, runs on the Wildside, coffees at Bruce’s and going to Nippers with my mom.
But, things haven’t always been this good – one could even say I had quite a rough start. My dad left before I was born. My guess is that he was a handsome bloke, athletic and popular with the ladies. Definitely prolific – my resemblance to many of my peers is uncanny. Mom, on the other hand, wasn’t in great shape. From what I remember, feeding my brothers and I really tired her out. Sometimes she was even too exhausted to lift her head. Then her milk ran dry.
Thankfully, we lived alongside a busy road and there was often an assortment of tidbits we could scavenge. It was quite scary with cars constantly whizzing past, but if you were quick and could get there before the pigs or chickens, you could find some worthwhile scraps. All in all, not an ideal upbringing. I missed my mommy’s warmth and was constantly hungry. I knew where to find her and would come to check on her every now and then, but mostly we spent our days looking for food. Sleeping in the mud was yucky, but it was even worse being chased by people with sticks. Nighttime was terrifying. I learned that whenever you hear loud voices and it’s dark, you should hide. Many of my friends had been kicked or hurt when people who had that smell on their breathe came home from the tavern down the road.
One day, out of the blue, everything changed. An angel with a crown of golden curls and a soft voice came into our lives. My brothers and I had just come back from our afternoon scavenge and were checking in on our mom. There seemed to be more people than usual hanging around and then I saw a lady in a blue shirt hovering over mom.
At first, I was sceptical. Should I hide? What did she want? Humans normally don’t pay us much attention. But there was something about the way she looked at Mommy, almost as if she could feel her pain. So, I decided to watch from a little bit away.
Suddenly, her eyes turned towards me, and she held out her hand for me to smell. How did she know I really wanted to give her a good sniff? Maybe, I could trust her. She put a little pile of delicious-smelling bits of food on the floor in front of her. It didn’t take long before the pain in my tummy got the better of me and I inched forward to try my luck. I mean, how dangerous could it be – she had such a kind face? It was soooo delicious. I couldn’t stop eating and ate so much I thought my tummy would explode. Just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, she picked me up, lay me in the crook of her arm in a soft blanket and rubbed my belly. I couldn’t help it, I fell asleep.
When I woke up, I was somewhere completely different. My brothers were there too but it felt very strange. It was quiet, warm and dry. We always had food and could play and sleep as much as we wanted – sometimes we would play so hard that we fell asleep in the middle of a game on top of each other. I expected to wake up at any moment and find myself back in our old spot under the floorboards, but it never happened.
For many weeks we were all together and had a man and a lady looking after us. Then, one day, we were bathed (an altogether awful experience) and our angel in a blue shirt came to pick us up. She piled us in a basket and took us to a very noisy marketplace. There were people everywhere – so many new smells. We sat with her under a tree for hours, as she proudly showed us to anyone walking past. Small humans loved picking us up and rubbing our tummies. It was such an exhausting day that, once again, I gave in to my urges and eventually fell asleep in the arms of a little girl with dark hair.
After a lovely nap, I opened my eyes and to my surprise, my brothers were nowhere to be seen! I was at another new place with a whole range of different smells. Next thing I knew, I was being given the once over by a tan Africanis named Penny. At first, I don’t think she liked me very much and she just sniffed around me. Naturally, it didn’t take long before she succumbed to my charm. She taught me things nobody else could; she showed me where to do my business, how to make a noise when someone walks past, how to sit and look sweet when our two-legged mom has treats, and best of all, what to do when she is mad at us (and this happened a lot in the beginning).
In my new house, there is (or was) a giant soft couch. One day when she was out, I started chewing on the corner of a cushion. It felt so good. Before I knew it, I had demolished all of the cushions and found myself surrounded by soft white fluff. The more I flicked my head, the more stuff came out in little clouds. It was the most fun I had ever had, I simply couldn’t stop myself.
Unfortunately, when my new mom came home and saw the mess, I nearly got sent back to Sea Vista. Penny came swiftly to the rescue and showed me how to look up at her with my ears up and a little bit of the whites of my eyes showing. Like a secret weapon, it always managed to soften her up a bit and the sun never set with her angry. There were many more incidences and accidents, mostly just misunderstandings I think. All those stuffed toys were surely put there for my enjoyment and deliciously odorous socks lying on the floor wouldn’t be meant for anyone else but me, right?
Penny and I have had so many adventures together. Our favourite pastime when mom was out was to climb trees so that we could jump over the back fence and go and greet all the other dogs in the neighbourhood. Sometimes we even took ourselves for a run on the beach! It felt a bit like old times. We loved our independence but made sure we always knew the way home. Sometimes, if we were gone for too long, mom would even come and find us. Those were the days! The only downside was that it made mom a real crankypants.
She has found all our escape spots now – so our daily excursions have come to an end. I can’t complain though, my life is still brilliant. She says I am calming down, but I think I am just relaxing.
Finally, I am home.
Tending your Daisies
Most of you will have tried to grow a thing or two, whether it be a lemon tree in the back garden, some mint by the tap, a decorative pot of basil on your window sill, or even just your child’s straggly school-project runner bean. We at Dune Daisies applaud you for your efforts and have faith that they have not been in vain, whatever your success rate (disclaimer: we both confess to having killed the odd plant or two, entirely by accident). In our books, any attempt at planting deserves a daisy high five.
We also understand that this time of year is particularly trying for those attempting to grow the odd salad green. It’s just too cold, there’s not enough sun and the back garden has become a football pitch/dogs running track/weed-infested jungle while your back was turned. Well, as we have often mentioned, we are here to make your lives that little bit sparklier. So please do read on to find out how, what and where you can grow some edible greens during these winter months.
On your marks…
First up, you need to assess what space you have to grow your greens as that will determine your ultimate seed/planting choice. Here are a few options:
1) Indoor windowsill/Indoor pots
We do not all have the luxury of sprawling acres of garden in which to plant. Fear not – there are a variety of greens that will happily grow inside in a pot or otherwise well-drained container inside your house. Herbs are particularly useful to have on hand on your kitchen windowsill when preparing meals. A sunny spot behind a warming glass will allow you to grow summer fruits and veggies, deep into the winter months (think along the lines of the season extending benefits of greenhouses).
2) Planting boxes
Timber planting boxes that stand a few feet off the ground are not only amazing for those who have tiled/concrete gardens, but have the added benefit of being moveable – this flexibility allows you to maximise sun and shade around your house during the different seasons. During winter, you should aim to place your planting boxes in an area protected by the wind, but receiving maximum sunlight and warmth. Increase your available planting area by placing your planting box against a wall and allowing winter greens, such as peas, to climb up. You will not only be able to harvest more greens, but you will also beautify your erstwhile bare wall.
And for those who cannot source planting boxes, old car tyres will work just as well – and they can be stacked on top of one another to create deeper planting mediums.
3) Garden beds
The winter growing options available to you as the ‘ground gardener’ will all depend on how much sunlight your winter garden bed receives. Remember that the number of hours as well as the intensity of sunlight in winter is drastically reduced when compared to the sizzling summer sun. If you are lucky to have a well sheltered spot of garden, that gets its fair share of winter sun, plant from the list we have provided.
4) None of the above
If you are struggling to find the right place and spot to plant your winter garden, put word out there in your community, get together with a friend or two and make it happen. There are inspiring examples of kerbsides becoming blooming edible gardens, old recycled cars sprouting onions from their open bonnets and cooperative garden clubs for those that want some company whilst donning their green fingers.
perma·cul·ture (noun)
“the development of agricultural ecosystems intended to be sustainable and self-sufficient.”
WANT TO LEARN MORE & BECOME A GARDEN GURU?
Permaculture design course Courses – Permaculture Design
Get set…
So, now that you have earmarked where you are going to plant and what you are going to plant, a vital component determining the success rate of your green fingers project is your planting medium (ie: the soil). And not just any soil will do. We recommend getting in touch with either Clint at the Farmyard Nursery (Facebook), John Davies or Andrew at St Francis Bay Organics to obtain a couple of bags of affordable, top-grade potting soil/vermicast/compost to give your plants the best chance in life. And please don’t forget the importance of good draining before the soil gets chucked on!
And plant…
Okay, the time has come, you have done your research and created the best possible planting place and medium for your winter garden and you have sourced the appropriate seeds and seedlings. Now comes the fun bit. Remember to space out your plants/seeds with an eye to the size of your future harvest – no self-respecting bean wants to be too close to those pesky, sprawling swiss chards. Check online or on the back of seed packets for spacing recommendations. Watering in these drought-filled months will always be an issue; be mindful of how often and when you water your plants – top tip: utilise the last dregs of your fur baby’s water bowl, catch the extra water used to prime your coffee machine and collect your dish wash water in the sink – your veggies and our local dam levels with thank you. One last word on waterwise gardening (and this really deserves its own blog); one cardinal rule is to never have any bare soil showing in between your greens. Yes, we know that it looks tidy and pretty to all you A-types out there, but it’s just not sustainable. Breathe in, allow a bit of wild into your garden (whether it be a pot/container or bed), mulch away and ensure that every bit of water you pour around your plants gets utilised (and not evaporated or runoff).
DIG DEEPER:
Websites: Life is a garden https://www.lifeisagarden.co.za/growing_a_veggie_patch_for_beginners/
Seeds for Africa: Planting guide for the Eastern Cape
https://www.seedsforafrica.co.za/pages/eastern-cape-vegetable-planting-guide
BEDSIDE READING TO INSPIRE SLEEPY SEEDLINGS:
Jane’s Delicious Garden
FILL UP YOUR SEEDLING & SEED SHOPPING BAG
- Co-op in Humansdorp
- Garden Gallery SFB
- The Farmyard Nursery
- Green Box
- Online heirloom seeds
- SF College has seeds and seedlings for sale.
- Seeds for Africa
- SandVeld Organics
- Living Seeds
And don’t forget….
Gardening is a lesson in patience, gratitude, determination, empathy and … more patience. If at first you don’t succeed, have another go, just please don’t give up. As when you bite into that first winter-grown bean or fill your sarmie with some fresh, crunchy, just picked lettuce, you will feel thankful for these small blessings.
PS All soils are NOT created equal:
- Potting Soil – for planting in containers
- Vermicast – to add to soil to help with water retention and nutrients
- Compost – to add to soil to boost nutrients
Keen for a Dip?
For many of us, swimming in the ocean is something done at the height of summer, often to cool off after a spell of tanning. A brief, refreshing dip. There may even be some Dune Daisy readers brave enough to take it one step further, don a wetsuit, grab a board and ride the blue, peeling waves deeper offshore. But how many of you willingly and unwaveringly take to the ocean, day in and day out, come rain, shine, wind, fog (and everything in between), to cold water swim? To brave temperatures chilly enough to numb your extremities and make your teeth chatter? Well, if you do, you belong to a growing group of like-minded folk. Not extreme athletes, just regular people like you and me. People who get a physical and mental boost from taking time out in nature, immersing their bodies in the cold ocean, supporting their fellow ‘dippers’ and performing this invigorating and somewhat crazy ritual every day.
Interested? Think you are up for the challenge? Well, you are in luck, as St Francis Bay has its very own cold water dipping group, aptly named the ‘Naughty Nauticals’. And they are celebrating the upcoming Winter Solstice with a special early morning swim – find out more about them in the interview below with founding member Sandy Coffey, and take the plunge this Wednesday to honour the Solstice!
THE NAUGHTY NAUTICALS
It all began when my brother asked a simple question on Christmas Day 2020. He just said, “I don’t know why you are not swimming every day”. Right then and there I committed to getting into the water every day for a year. Rain, sun, wind, hail, lightning – whatever came my way. Of course, it was easy because it was summer, but by May, I was starting to realise that I had to dig deep. But it was too far into the year to give up, so I just carried on.
“Being a St Francis Bay local as opposed to a SFB holidaymaker are two vastly different things: As a non-local it can time to feel part of the community and find your “tribe”. Joining the Nauticals has made all the difference.”
Debbie Andrew
For 18 months, I swam alone. No one seemed remotely interested. Except for my friend Willem Bosman. He came to me after a dinner braai one day and said he wanted to “try it out”. It was winter, so I never thought he would. But he did. And he hasn’t missed a day since. Slowly he began bringing newcomers. And before we knew it, there was a committed bunch of ocean dippers. And that’s when we gave ourselves the name “Naughty Nauticals”. And even got T-shirts made for us! So that is how it all started. Today, it’s a robust, fun, brave group of interesting human beings.
We ocean dip (not to be confused with actual swimming training!) every morning at 7.30 am at Grannies Pool. Most stay for a warm-up coffee after the dip. Ages range from 16 to 85. There isn’t much of a routine. Whoever pitches up gets in and joins the fun. No pressure to stay in for any length of time. Whatever suits. No rules. Except that you have to get your hair wet!! There is a lot of talk about what the temperature of the water is. A LOT. So much so, that one of the dippers brings a thermometer to check!
I got to hear about Wim Hoff after about a year of my solo swims – and I did a whole lot of research. I wouldn’t consider us Wim Hoffers, rather, cold water immersion fans! There is so much research to back up the amazing effects of cold-water immersion – increased immune response, clearer minds, sharper responses, better sleep, and of course, daily discipline.
“I joined the crew after losing a bet with a mate – the best bet I ever lost. It has introduced me to a new group of mates and unique experiences. Even though not a regular at the moment, I always “catch on where I left off” with the bunch. Amazing way to start the day!”
Trevor Gascoyne
Personally, my body has gotten used to that cold water – on the odd occasion where I have been unable to swim because of work commitments, my body misses it. There is an addiction I can see happening! A good one.
The hardest part is definitely getting in. And there is no easy way. I find it best just to dive in, rather than go in slowly. Best part is 10 minutes after the swim. All the endorphins rush around your body and there is a beautiful sense of being alive. And of course, there is the ocean. I have learnt more about tides, wind, moon, sun and the ocean in these past three years than during my whole life.
We don’t really have any rituals, except if it’s someone’s birthday – then we stay for cake and coffee (thanks to Bruce’s Cafe for deliciousness!). And now we are planning our first Winter Solstice event. Anyone and everyone is welcome on the 21st June, 7.30 am. Come and be part of the fun!
If it’s your first dip, here is my advice: warm up your car beforehand; wear water shoes so your feet don’t get torn by the rocks, and bring a warm jacket to wear after. You will find it very uncomfortable for the first two minutes in the water, and then the magic happens. Your body gets used to it and realises there isn’t any actual danger and it starts to normalise. Don’t get out before that happens. And then, with curiosity, see how your day pans out. I’ll bet something good happens.
If I had to pick one word to sum up how I feel after my morning swim, it would be: ALIVE.
“It’s been a blessing to join the Nauticals. My first dip was a few days after I experienced a traumatic home robbery in Johannesburg. The early morning routine helped me to connect with my feelings and surroundings, the natural beauty of the area and the morning light, the joy and discomfort I felt as the curious otter circled us, the kindness, the humour, and discovering the stories and talents of my fellow immersers truly helped me heal.”
Gill Stern
“Last year I ended up in a coma for two weeks and in hospital for three months. I have always loved the sea but was concerned to go back to the water as I was paralysed on my left side. When Willem’s wife, Leanne told me about this group of swimmers, I was excited although afraid as I didn’t want to hinder the others, but oh my word, I was overwhelmed by the kindness, support, help and encouragement, and getting back into the water has helped me with my physical and mental well-being. I feel my healing process has accelerated and I have benefited greatly from both the swimmers and the ocean.”
Karen
“When Sandy Coffey invited me along to join her one day, in the middle of winter, I couldn’t resist. Primarily driven by the challenge it presented, I was also curious! That first swim is still vivid in my mind. I battled to breathe for the first 30 seconds but the sense of calm and accomplishment I felt as my body surrendered to the temperature was life changing. The rest is history. It is more than a year now and every day I crave the soothing feeling of cold water rushing over my skin as I take the plunge. It is that and the discipline it takes (together with the addictive pheromones my body exudes) that brings me back for a wonderful start to the day. Combine that with the daily changing beauty of the surroundings, the seagulls, the jumping fish, the odd inquisitive otter swimming with us, the enduring camaraderie and laughter we have in the water and the post dip coffee, being a Nautical is a no brainer!”
Willem Bosman
And if you find yourself further afield, fear not as there are cold water swimming groups in almost every bay and tidal pool around our coastline. Read on for the backstory on the Atlantic Waterbabies from Camps Bay in Cape Town. This intrepid group has been cold water swimming since 2015 and was even showcased on Carte Blanche!
DD: What motivated you to take the plunge?
Atlantic Waterbabies: Most of us had heard about the Wim Hof method and the various benefits of cold water swimming and were keen to try it out. The pressure from friends who were already hooked on it already was also a huge impact! The oldest member of the Waterbabies (Helen Boonzaier, 85yrs old) had so much FOMO when she saw our seemingly crazy bunch of people swimming in the freezing Atlantic that she just had to join!
DD: Tell us a little about your group
AW: We swim every morning at 7.30 am at the Camps Bay tidal pool or in the ocean, depending on the conditions and there can be anything between 5-20 swimmers at a time. Ages range from 30-85 years old and our backgrounds are as varied as the weather. Our only rule is that you immerse for a full 20 mins. We don’t follow the Wim Hof breathing method but do love the philosophy behind Cold Water Cryotherapy.
Some of us prep for the morning dip with some tea and crackers, or a morning meditation and writing ritual. Others set their alarm, get into auto-pilot mode, don’t think too much about what the weather conditions look like outside, and drive to the pool to meet the group.
DD: What motivates you to take the plunge every morning?
AW: There are so many reasons to keep dipping, including communing with the swimming crowd and chatting nonsense with each other; feeling the connection to the water and nature; the deep sense of peace; feeling the movement of the water, and of course the post-swim coffees and hot baths! The hardest parts are to take the first step of getting up in the cold, wet, dark winter months and to get past that moment of having to take off your warm fluffy robe and walk into the ocean.
Sink or Swim? Know your cold-water lingo
Wim Hof: Welcome to the Official Wim Hof Method Website
Cryotherapy: What Is Cryotherapy? A Guide to Cold Therapy | Everyday Health
Waterbabies on Instagram
https://instagram.com/atlantic_water_babies?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
https://instagram.com/coldwatersocialclub?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
DD: What changes, physically and emotionally have you noticed as a result of your morning swims?
AW: Apart from some members feeling years younger, there is no doubt that cold water swimming and the associated social interactions help to increase energy levels, boost the immune system and lighten emotional head space. The sense of comradeship and community, the coming together of like-minded people, has really become so important for our dippers and really has helped them through some very tough times. And for many, this seemingly simple ritual has provided the much-needed reason to get up in the morning – it really is the best way to start your day!
DD: Do you have any other rituals/ceremonies included as part of your group?
AW: We love it when a birthday comes around as we do a birthday circle in the water, singing and splashing and celebrating the birthday guy/gal. We also, of course, have our much-needed coffees post dip and we have had some wonderful swim gatherings on dry land; weekends away, nights at the opera etc. We have a sister group, The Mermaids, who swim after us (they get the sun!) and love to do full moon and Solstice swims.
DD: What advice would you give to someone interested in starting cold water swimming?
AW: All you need to do is try! The best thing to do is that once you have taken that first plunge, do it every morning for 6 days – then you will be hooked – your body and mind will demand more!
DD: And if you could sum up how you feel after your morning swim in one word, what would that word be?
AW: ALIVE, AMAZING, HAPPY, ENERGISED, RESET, FRESH, COLD
Well, fellow daisies, we are keen to give it a try and whether you are in St Francis Bay, Scarborough, Salt Rock or Syndey, why not take a dip into the ocean this Solstice? Celebrate the turn of the season with the pull of the waves. Immerse you body, free you mind and make a new friend or two. As Sandy so astutely said “if I can get into the ocean every day, then what else am I capable of doing?”
Father's Day - Should we still be celebrating these Hallmark holidays?
In an age where inclusivity is encouraged and enforcing gender stereotypes is frowned upon, why do we make such a big deal about days that celebrate a particular gender and role? Why are we still bothering with these Hallmark holidays? Shouldn’t we celebrate our parents every day?
Does anyone consider how Father’s Day feels for the child who has lost their father or has an absent dad? It’s not an easy day and only reinforces what is missing or lacking in their lives. Or does anyone consider how it feels to be in a blended family where one loves like a father and does oodles of fathering but is not the biological father? Think of the family that has two mothers. Has society not evolved enough to where it can figure out a better way of celebrating traditional familial roles?
Besides, what can you learn from your father that you can’t from your mother? In a world where mothers can be breadwinners (the latest data reports that 41% of households in South Africa have a female breadwinner) and fathers are stay-at-home dads or moms do the ‘Iron Man’ and dads sew school play costumes, finding an answer to what only a dad can teach is more challenging. I know so many people who have lost a parent at a young age and grown up with only one parent. One parent fulfilling both the roles of mother and father – breadwinner and nurturer. Having two parents will always be better than having one – double the love, double the resources, and double the time. But given that there are 2.6 million single-parent households in South Africa (almost 30% of all households) and about 70% of those households are headed by women, I wondered if the children in those 1.8 million families would be lacking in anything in particular because they were not brought up with their father.
Don’t fret the small stuff. Dad taught me how to put life into perspective. There are bigger things to worry and stress about. There’s no point worrying about silly irrelevant stuff.
Be happy and grateful for the life you have. Remember how privileged you are to have the life you have and be happy
Ant to Ella
We accept that everyone is different and that nobody’s parents are the same. Children have individual needs and can even choose their own pronouns. As traditional gender roles slowly evaporate, is it even relevant to ask whether a dad teaches something a mother can’t?
The answer is probably not going to be popular (and maybe a tad unwoke), but I do believe men and women have different things to offer, especially as parents. Children learn things from their fathers that are unique. Of course, this is not to say that if you don’t have a father, you won’t learn these things, just as every parent has a varied approach. But sometimes the process of questioning something is useful. As a widow, mother of a young daughter, and someone who lost their biological father at an early age, this was a valuable exercise and I have gained some insight into what I can do to be a better parent to my child. It also made me realise that even though a biological father may not be present, many other male role models can fulfil these needs. Brothers, uncles, stepdads, cousins and even family friends play an important role and I should not forget to thank them for all they mean to us. All of these men have stepped up for us and play an important role in my child’s life, so I am enterally grateful to them.
The following list is based on conversations I have had with some of my special people (and even Chat GBT) about what it means to be a father and how they are different from mothers. By no means is this scientific data and it definitely doesn’t apply to everybody, but rather a simple list of observations.
No. 1. Dads like to play rough.
Somehow this comes instinctively to men. Flinging toddlers around upside down holding only one foot, wrestling on the floor with teenage boys larger and stronger than them, throwing kids into the pool – sound familiar? Yet, somehow it all ends up okay (even if there are a couple of tears). Dads will never be as careful as moms when it comes to playtime and kids love and need a little roughhousing!
No.2. Dads help build self-esteem for their children.
Our Dune Daisies dad, Ant has taught his kids to surf. Surfing teaches many things besides having the ability to stand on top of a board and ride waves. The first is obviously respect for the sea, but another vital skill is to acknowledge their fears and have confidence in their abilities.
The only thing to fear is fear itself. Dad said that to me when we were paddling out on one of the biggest days in the Transkei surf. He gave me confidence and taught me to be calm in stressful situations and to just breathe.
Ella
No.3. Dads teach us different ways to communicate.
Whomever your father is, he will communicate differently to you than your mother. My father always spoke to people with respect in an urbane and friendly way. Never talking down to people and not differentiating his tone for anybody. He had a knack for making people feel comfortable and people responded to him well. I think because he always managed to find a common ground.
No.4. Dads give solid dating advice.
Dads know men better than women do. That’s a fact. So, when your dad says “Never bring home a man who doesn’t like Liverpool,” (as Ant did to Jemma) you listen.
No.5. Dad jokes are the best.
I admit, I outsourced this to our friendly AI chatbot and this is what I got:
- Dad, did you get a haircut? No, I got them all cut!
- Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything.
- What do you call a fake noodle? An impasta.
- I told my wife she was drawing her eyebrows too high. She looked surprised.
- What do you call a can opener that doesn’t work? A can’t opener.
- Why did the scarecrow win an award? He was outstanding in his field.
- Why don’t skeletons fight each other? They don’t have the guts.
No.6. Dads show us how to love hard.
A dad loves his children unconditionally (much like a mother does), but also knows how to love hard. For example, a child may come home from swimming and say that they absolutely hate it and plead to give it up. Moms might be more inclined to let the child stop the sport, while a father will put down his foot and insist they continue. He reminds the child of all the benefits of being able to swim well (especially living in a coastal town) and is unwavering in his opinion. This is loving hard – not making popular decisions, but rather those that will help the child later on in life. I know this is an over-generalization, but I have seen this play out in so many scenarios that I found it worth mentioning.
No.7. Dads give their daughters affirmation.
Nobody loves a daughter like a dad does. A dad has a special and enduring love for his daughter that is unique. She knows that he thinks she is wonderful and adores her. He is the first man she will love and he sets the bar for any men that come into her life as she gets older. Knowing that your dad loves you, gives a girl confidence and affirmation. Think about how different it feels when a mom tells her daughter she is beautiful compared to when a dad tells her the same thing.
No.8. Dads show their sons how to be men.
It is often said that a dad is a son’s first hero. Sons look up to their dads for advice and guidance and often try to emulate them in many ways. Men try to lead by example and demonstrate the value of grit and hard work. A dad understands what it is to be a man as he has walked that path and can show his son the way.
No.9. Dads have different skills from moms.
Sometimes a dad’s skill set involves power tools and toolboxes, other times it can be herding cattle or using a lawnmower (especially if you have a farm in the Baviaans). My dad had a wonderful financial brain and was good at taking calculated risks, teaching us to think our decisions through carefully before diving into a new situation.
No.10 Dads like to play sports or do physical activities with their kids.
Dads are also more inclined to get out there and run around with a ball with their kids or get really involved in watching their sporting matches. Let’s face it that in general, men enjoy flinging around frisbees or hitting balls with bats more than moms do. Because they like doing stuff like that they also have some useful hints about how to tackle or how to kick at the right angle. While playing sports together, they also teach their kids how to push themselves a little physically and in pushing themselves and achieving a new goal they realise that they can do more than they think they can.
For many dads, playing sports with their children is a way to be present in their lives. Something that guarantees uninterrupted time and constant interaction.
When in doubt, paddle out – immersing yourself in the sea or water. Nature is the best thing. It grounds you, improves your mood and brings overall happiness.
Ant to Ella
Ten things I wish I had known in high school - for our younger daisies!
A while back I was asked to speak at my old high school, and the thought of trying to find something relevant to say to a hall full of teenage girls was daunting. What on earth could I say that would be meaningful and uplifting for them? I think when you are fifteen you think that adults should have it all figured out. Of course, we know life doesn’t quite work like that and we learn as we go. But to tell a bunch of kids that hardly any of the adults really know what they are doing didn’t seem like a good idea. So, I outsourced my dilemma to my old schoolmates, asking them what they wish they had known when they were in high school and the following is a compilation of our thoughts.
No.1. There is life after school and lots of it.
Everyone remembers sitting at long school assemblies where some or other speaker tells you that these are the best days of your life and you should make the most of them. Over and over again, we heard the same message. But looking back, while there were definitely good times in high school, life got better and better after school. Each decade is richer than the last. There is something about learning to accept yourself as you get older, being able to put aside all the insecurities of your younger self. And at some point, you realise and accept that you are who you are; you can’t change how you look, how you feel and what you like. This is when the fun begins. You start wearing whatever you fancy or speaking your mind (knowing that it might not be well-received) and life gets better and richer.
No. 2. Marks and grades aren’t everything.
In the real world, you are not constantly tested upon factoids and getting an A+ isn’t necessarily always the best thing. Sure, your parents are happy when you get good marks, but I am positive they would be just as proud if they knew you had figured out how to manage your time well, knew and accepted your limitations, and learned to use your resources. These are skills you will need when you leave school. Nobody will ask you what you got for your maths exam in a job interview, but rather what skills you have – can you communicate effectively, can you problem solve?
These things are not taught in books, but rather through applying knowledge you have gained and using what you have. By no means am I advocating, just chilling out and doing nothing (I am sure teachers and parents would kill me for that) and make no mistake, there is no substitute for hard work. But rather, it is more important to enjoy the educational process. Ask questions, discuss and explore areas or things that fascinate you. Find something you love to do and really go for it! This could become a refuge for you later on in life.
Believe it or not, failure or disappointment can be the best thing to happen to you. At these dark points in your life when you feel like you have not succeeded or have not achieved what you set out to, you have the choice to either wallow in what ‘could have been’ or to see it as an opportunity to challenge yourself and adjust your mindset.
When I look back on my life and remember points of change, I remember them often being hard, but I learnt so much about myself and realised that it is not so much what happens to you, but rather how you choose to see the situation. This is how you build resilience – the ability to cope, even when things are tough. This is how you grow. Embrace failure and use it as a springboard to something even better.
No. 4. One size does NOT fit all.
There are many paths to success. You don’t have to do what everyone else is doing. In fact, some of the most successful people in the world did not follow a conventional path to success. There is always so much talk about going to university in high school. This may surprise you, but I really wish everyone didn’t go to university. There are so many different paths one can take to achieve one’s dreams. I am sure you have heard of Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Henry Ford, Beyoncé, Walt Disney, Oprah Winfrey and Richard Branson. Can you guess what all of these people have in common? None of them graduated from university and some only found success later after doing something else first.
Don’t be afraid to break out of the mould (because more often than not, that mould is something you have cast yourself and it is your barrier to change).
No. 5. Love yourself.
Just be yourself and accept who you are. You don’t have to fit in. You can be different and you are lovable, no matter how much you like to march to the beat of your own drum.
Someone once told me that you have to love yourself before anyone else can love you (obviously excluding parents, family members and besties). Loving yourself isn’t about vanity or arrogance. It’s about accepting who you are and being comfortable in your own skin. Nobody is perfect and no one has it all figured out. Even when it looks like they have everything together, most of us have our own insecurities. Your inner dialogue is so important. Watch the words that you speak to yourself because they will predict your future.
No. 6 Enjoy being a woman.
There has never been a better time to be a woman. There are more opportunities now for women than ever before. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. You can achieve whatever you set your mind to doing, whether that is being a mechanic or surgeon. Being a confident and successful woman doesn’t mean you have to put aside feminity. Enjoy all that this can mean.
No. 6 Embrace being a man.
If there were ever a time when we needed strong men, it is now. As the world we know changes on a daily basis, we need men more than ever who are not afraid to stand up for what is right. Men who value integrity and are not afraid to voice their opinions without resorting to violence.
No. 7 Choose your friends wisely.
Surround yourself with people who build you up and don’t break you down. Your peers have a greater impact on you than you realize. Another good friend of mine who is a forensic psychologist explained to me how the group you identify with or the friends you hang out with as a teenager have even more influence on your actions than your parents do. So, choose your tribe wisely and be aware that they will shape who you become later on in life. These friends are gold. Treat them as such.
Local activities to build confidence and make new friends:
- Take up lifesaving.
- Start art classes.
- Learn to surf.
- Volunteer with the St Francis Bay Animal Welfare.
- Start playing an instrument.
- Play soccer with the lads on the village green.
- Make friends with a person older than seventy.
- Get a part-time job.
No. 8 Look forward.
All you have is now and we all need to protect our future. So, stop looking back and focusing on what has been. Look towards a positive future and be part of the change that needs to happen to make it what you want it to be. Be conscious of the world around you and know that the future is defined by your mindset.
No. 10 Be kind. No exceptions.
My final point is probably the most important of all and if you don’t remember anything else, just remember this – you will never regret being kind and your kindness may have a greater impact than you will ever realise.
A few years ago, I was having a rough time. Nothing was going as planned, I had cancer and was feeling exhausted and deflated. On my way to radiation and then work, I stopped at the Starbucks drive-thru to get my caffeine fix for the morning. When I got to the window to pay, I was told that the car in front of me had paid for my coffee and wished me a happy day. It was not someone I knew or had had any contact with – yet this simple and random act of kindness touched me so deeply. The car was long gone and I would never know who it was, but I will never forget that moment and how it reminded me of all I had to be grateful for.
PS I have the Collegiate High School Class of ’91’ to thank for all these bits of advice, they continue to be a constant source of inspiration and support. This was taken from a speech I gave at the Founder’s Day of our 30th reunion. Sadly, COVID kept us apart that year, but what a privilege to be able to speak on their behalf. Thank you, Girls of the College.
Small Town Swaps & Sustainably Dressed Daisies
Choosing blog topics at Dune Daisies is always fun as we get a chance to don our creative hats and think about not only inspiring issues, but also ones we feel would interest our fellow readers. This particular blog was top of our to-do list and grew from a short story that was entered into the St Francis Today monthly writing competition. It began as an account of a feel-good experience of bartering and second-hand clothes shopping in our beautiful town. However, when we delved deeper into the closet of sustainability in the fashion industry, we uncovered a few proverbial skeletons (and they were not dressed for success).
We hope you enjoy the short story and related insights uncovered when we scratched around in the back of the wardrobe.
SMALL TOWN SWOPS: A short story by Sas
Small towns are known for their charm, special ways and individuality. I am sure you’ll agree St Francis Bay is no different. We have our own sports clubs, pizza combos, pale ales, surf breaks and bumper stickers. The views are breath-taking and there is a plethora of unique opportunities for its citizens. And let’s not forget the blissful lack of robots or rush hour. One of my (many) favourite things about the small town we call home is its brilliant barter system. Have something to offer? There’s a good chance that you will be able to swop it for items you desire. It’s all about knowing the people around you; something which is possible in St Francis Bay. And the beauty of a good barter is that you always give and receive more than the monetary value of the goods in question. I would love to share with you one of my bartering bonanza experiences. Growing up overseas, I went to a high school where matric dances were not the massive productions that they are here. We borrowed dresses, did each other’s hair and were lucky if a photo or two were taken by the math teacher outside the school hall. So, it was with disbelief that I learnt about the extent and complexity of my daughter Jemma’s upcoming matric dance preparations. The dress code for her school was long and white. Seriously? Make no mistake, I am a huge fan of tradition, but ‘long and white’ sounded very much like a wedding dress to me – help! Desperate to find a dress that would make both Jemma and our budget happy, I went to my favourite clothing shop; Gently Worn. This boutique is home to not only a wide range of pre-loved clothes, but the owners also happened to be customers of my organic vegetable business. The arrangement we had was this; I would deliver a weekly box of veggies and Angela would translate that into a credit, allowing me to ‘purchase’ her pre-loved clothes. No cash ever changed hands, and we both felt we were getting an amazing deal. On the hunt for miracle, Jemma and I browsed the rails and there, tucked in between a 70s floral house coat and a maroon jumpsuit, we found an utterly gorgeous, beautifully embroidered white wedding dress. When she stepped behind the changing room curtain to try it on, we all held our breath. She emerged triumphant. Not only did it fit, but she loved it, and it met the dress code! When we arrived at the till to settle up, Angela happily announced that I had enough credit (from my veggie sales) to cover its cost. The day of the matric dance arrived and Jemma looked stunning, graciously receiving many compliments on her appearance. I overheard a friend of hers asking, “your dress is to die for Jems! Where did you find get it? In Johannesburg? Or did you get it specially designed for you in Cape Town?” Jemma looked over to where Anton and I were standing and, with a slight, sardonic raise of her eyebrow replied, “my mum bought it for a box of vegetables.” And that is why I love this town.
Understanding the lingo:
Fast Fashion: Fashion that is cheap, quickly manufactured and disposable. Fashion that has a speedy turnaround and aims to bring expensive catwalk trends to the ‘man’ on the street.
Slow Fashion: Similar to sustainable fashion in that it aims to be ethically sourced, environmentally sound, locally made, high quality and honours textile workers’ social & cultural rights.
Thrifting: To shop for used clothing, whether it be at a garage sale, flea market, estate sale, charity store, donation centre, or a used clothing store.
Fashion-flipping: To buy second-hand garments for resale (they can be altered, mended or upcycled before the resale).
Greenwashing: Misleading or deceptive publicity regarding how environmentally friendly a product is.
The Environmental Impact of Fashion
The equivalent of one garbage truck full of clothes is burned or dumped in a landfill every second (UNEP, 2018)
Approximately 60% of all materials used by the fashion industry are made from plastic (UNEP, 2019)
500,000 tons of microfibers are released into the ocean each year from washing clothes — the equivalent of 50 billion plastic bottles (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2017)
That the world of fashion has a lot to answer for in terms of social, ethical and environmental responsibility is nothing new. We have all watched appalled as overcrowded, life-threatening, dehumanising sweatshops have been exposed. We have gasped in horror as rivers turned green, poisoned by chemical effluent from textile factories. And we have averted our eyes and shrugged our shoulders as our teenagers have pressurised us into buying the latest, coolest, fast fashion trends, hot off the catwalk and now in our local malls. Clearly, there are a multitude of destructive social and environmental consequences stemming from the life cycle of a fast fashion garment.
D
aisies, it’s time to say goodbye to mindless consumerism and embrace conscious, sustainable, ethical shopping. It’s time to take a moment, pause, breathe deeply and embrace slow fashion. Trust us, you won’t regret it, and importantly, you’ll look good too 😉.
Luckily, we have a number of options at our fingertips: one of which is buying pre-loved clothes. The demand for second-hand garments is set to skyrocket (by up to 185% in the next 10 years vs a paltry 10% increase in fast fashion: thredup.com). The fusty, dingy thrift stores of the ‘80s have been replaced by modern, appealing boutiques, such as Gently Worn. And if digital browsing is more up your alley, there are a variety of online pre-loved and vintage sites on offer.
Gently Worn, and our other favourite, Vintage with Love SA, are not only in the business of acquiring and selling second-hand clothes, but they are also true ethical and sustainability warriors. Vintage with Love SA has donated over R9 million to numerous charities, from their pre-loved goods sales (Pre-loved Clothes | Vintage With Love). And here in St Francis Bay, Angela and her staff at Gently Worn make sure that the clothes received, if not sold, definitely do not end up polluting a landfill. Any unwanted items are boxed and donated to Freddie Van Rooyen. As well as being part of Kouga Disaster Management, Freddie also runs an NPO in Jeffrey’s Bay called Masikhathaleleneni. His outreach covers the entire Kouga region and all who live there, providing clothing, furniture and food parcels to those in need. In exchange for Gently Worn’s unwanted clothes, Freddie donates food to the soup kitchens in St Francis Bay. And last Christmas, his organisation provided festive food hampers to 10 local needy families (who had been identified by Pastor Andrew Vena and Catherine Falconer of the Green Box (greenboxorders).
So fellow daisies, even if you are struggling to adjust to the thought of buying pre-loved, please consider a visit to your local thrift shop, and ensure that your unwanted garments find a new home in a skeleton-free closet.
OTHER WAYS TO FIND YOUR ETHICAL FASHION GROOVE
- Be like twyg (twyg.co.za) and host a swap & mend group. Grab a friend, some snacks and wine and revitalise or exchange your unwanted garments.
- Support local brands (we have awesome local designers in our town, such as Shelly @surfsense Surf Sense | Handmade Surf & Swimwear – Surf Sense SA, Carrin @ Surfeez Handmade Beachwear St Francis Bay | Surfeez | Eastern Cape, Angie @ Salty Dog Surf Wear (1) Salty Dog Surf Wear | Facebook & Maria @ Shakti Shanti Where To Buy – Shakti Shanti (shaktishantiyogawear.com)
- Reduce the number of garments you buy, choose quality over quantity and opt for a capsule wardrobe The Ultimate Guide: How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe (modernminimalism.com)
- Research ethical and sustainable brands & shop consciously Why Fashion Needs to Be More Sustainable – Sustainable Living (columbia.edu)
The fashion industry is responsible for 8-10% of humanity’s carbon emissions – more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined (UNEP, 2018). If the fashion sector continues on its current trajectory, that share of the carbon budget could jump to 26% by 2050 (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2017)
Some 93 billion cubic metres of water – enough to meet the needs of five million people – is used by the fashion industry annually, contributing significantly to water scarcity in some regions (UNCTAD, 2020)
Around 20% of industrial wastewater pollution worldwide originates from the fashion industry (WRI, 2017)
WHERE TO FIND YOUR NEXT VINTAGE GARMENT:
Instagram/online shops: wolf_the_vintage_store / vintagelovercpt / vinatgewithlovesa
Whatsapp & Telegram groups: Pre-loved St Francis Bay
Markets:
- St Francis Bay: St Francis Bay Market – St Francis Bay Food and Craft Markets (stfrancismarket.co.za)
- Jeffrey’s Bay: Milkwood Mark \ Market | Jeffrey’s Bay | Facebook
Boutiques: Gently Worn / SPCA & Hospice shops in Jeffreys Bay
Cultural Daisies - The Russian Romantics
There is nothing quite like the music of the Russian Romantics. It’s evocative and breathtakingly beautiful – folkloristic simplicity and passionate complexity on a dramatic journey together. If you have never spent time with this music, this is your chance. It’s not often we get to hear three magnificent pieces performed live in one afternoon (especially in this neck of the woods). Prepare to get lost in the rich harmonies and beautiful melodies as they carry you away to where ever it is you want to go. Escapism at its purist – trust me, it’s worth trying and all you have to do is listen.
On Sunday, June 11th at 3 pm in the Feather Market Center in Gqeberha, the East Cape Philharmonic Orchestra will be performing music by Alexander Borodin, Sergei Rachmaninoff and, of course, Pytor Illych Tchaikovsky. They will also be featuring one of my favourite pianists, Nina Schumann.
Russian music from the Romantic period is particularly special because it has a distinctly Russian flavour. Composing in a style that was nationalistic was encouraged and well-received by Russian critics and audiences. In fact, if a composition sounded too Western and not evocative enough of Russian music, it was harshly criticised and often shunned by the public. Borodin was one of the main proponents of this style and getting his stamp of approval went a long way in Russian circles. Tchaikovsky’s style was typically Russian in many ways but provided a bridge to Western music which is why he was the first Russian composer to achieve real international acclaim and put Russian music on the map. Rachmaninoff was the youngest of the three, so bridged into a different era of music. I am sure when you listen to the concerto you will hear how well-suited it is for movie soundtracks or more popular music.
The opening work entitled the ‘Polovtsian Dances’ is taken from the opera Prince Igor by Alexander Borodin (1833-1887). In a nutshell, the story is about a complicated military campaign initiated by the Russian Prince Igor, who decides to wage war against the Polovtsian people, a Tatar tribe. Their campaign is however botched and Igor and his son get captured. These dances are taken from the end of Act 2 where the Polovtsian people are showing the prince some of their culture with dance and song.
As you will hear, Borodin’s music is evocative of distant lands. Notice his mastery at taking a melodic motif and weaving it through the fabric of the music. I love the folksy vibe added by the tambourine and the many cymbal crashes. Near the end, the trombones play at full force – hopefully, they’ll hold back enough so that you can hear the rest of the orchestra!
Borodin was often known as the composer who didn’t compose enough. He did, in fact, have another day job as a highly respected chemist and medical doctor. Besides doing valuable scientific research, he was passionate about education and was instrumental in founding the first medical college for women in Russia. Composing was his side hustle. Hard to fathom, as he was one of ‘The Five’ (not to be confused with our Big Five) – a group of composers from St. Petersburg, dedicated to creating a nationalistic style of Russian classical music.
Borodin was the son of a Georgian prince and a Russian army doctor’s wife. For obvious reasons, he was never acknowledged as the prince’s son and was registered as a serf. Serfdom aside, he still enjoyed a comfortable life supported financially by his father, which enabled him to thrive in academic and musical circles. In his thirties, he married a pianist named Ekaterina Protopovova (a real tongue twister) and together they adopted several daughters. This is probably where his passion for women’s education took root. Never a particularly healthy guy, suffering from heart conditions and bouts of cholera, he dropped dead at a ball at the tender age of 53 whilst apparently wearing full Russian costume. Some say his death was caused by fatigue, wearing multiple hats in the workplace and caring for a wife who was ill as well as his daughters had taken its toll.
Dig Deeper
When was the Romantic Period in Music?
- Between 1820 and 1900
Some facts about the Romantic Period?
- The Romantic period has nothing to do with romance, just more drama and passion in the arts.
- It’s hard to describe in words (hence all the flowery adjectives).
- Composers dig deep to find their own voice/ style, often drawing inspiration from nature, magic, folklore or deep emotion.
- You can expect to hear lots of contrasts, lots of louds and softs.
- People start making music at home (not just in castles and churches)- this is when the middle class started buying pianos for their living rooms.
- Symphony concerts become public events.
- Anyone can study music.
- The technical capabilities of instruments improve.
The Featured Daisy
Facts about Nina
- Piano professor at the University of Stellenbosch
- Holds degrees from the University of Cape Town, University of California in LA and the University of North Texas
- Married to a pianist, Luis Magalhaes – they are the award-winning TwoPianists duo
- Has 2 children
- Won all the major South African music prizes, as well as some international competitions
- Given over 140 concerto performances with orchestras in South Africa, Germany, Portugal, Scotland, Armenia and the United States
- Has 40 concertos in her repertoire
- Is a cancer survivor
- Lives and performs with Parkinson’s disease
Read more: Nina Schumann – A Great Year Ahead
Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 must be one of the most famous pieces of music ever composed. It has always been one of my favourite compositions, not only because of the gut-wrenching horn solos, but the solo piano leads you through this glorious voyage right from the beginning. Written in three movements, each is uniquely beautiful. It begins with slow piano chords that then cascade into swelling arpeggios as the strings play the opening theme. The melodies are passed between the instruments, each having a moment to sing out and add to the drama. The second movement starts with slow chords in the strings leading into an arpeggiated passage in the piano that then accompanies the clarinet as they pass the melody back and forth. Close your eyes and let the music wash over you as the drama and intensity builds. Listen especially for the magical horn solo that really digs in. The third movement presents a change of mood and tempo, lightening things up with a little brightness and cheekiness. Lots of flashy runs and big chords in the piano. The concerto comes to a close with a big tutti section (everyone playing at the same time) and a couple of bombastic cymbal crashes.
As you watch the pianist, I am sure you can imagine the skill required to perform such a piece of music. Rachmaninoff had massive hands, he had a reach of twelve white notes on the piano with one hand. He was also a world-renowned concert pianist and so he wrote his compositions to suit his hands, in many cases playing the premiere performance.
Rachmaninoff was born in Russia in 1873 (d.1943). His talent for music was recognised at an early age as both a performer and composer. At the age of 18, he wrote his first piano concerto which was very well received. He continued to climb in Russian society and became a well-known musician in the elite musical circles, eventually also touring as a concert pianist across Europe. In 1910, he caused quite a stir by marrying his cousin – in Russia this was illegal. They had a daughter and when the Russian Revolution began, the three of them left St. Petersburg on the back of an open sled to seek asylum in the United States, via Helsinki. On arrival in the United States, they had to start from scratch, having had to leave all of their possessions and wealth behind. It didn’t take long before he was performing again but didn’t do as much composing as before. After living in New York for many years, he eventually moved to LA and apparently built a house that was a replica of his house in Russia.
One of the central themes of Rachmaninoff’s life seems to have been his struggles with depression and anxiety. After hearing of Tchaikovsky’s death from cholera in 1893, he went into a major depression which impacted his productivity. Not long after recovering from this, he experienced another decline after what he perceived as the failed reception of his first symphony. His second piano concerto was the first major work to come after a long period of composer’s block. Treatment with hypnotherapy and supportive therapy helped draw him out of his funk and compose again. Perhaps this is why the second concerto has such depth with moments of darkness swelling into uplifting waves of passionate expression. I usually feel completely exhausted and emotionally drained after listening to it!
Fortunately, the interval will give you a chance to recover and prepare yourself for one of Tchaikovsky’s greatest works, his Fifth Symphony. Once again, this is manna from heaven if you are a horn player as it has some of the most exquisite solo passages in the orchestral repertoire ( I am sure the other instruments have great solos too).
Tchaikovsky shares a number of similarities with both Borodin and Rachmaninov. Although Borodin was the elder, they were more or less contemporaries. Besides the fact that they both died at the age of 53, both Tchaikovsky and Borodin studied something else other than music. Tchaikovsky studied law and worked as a legal clerk for a while. When the opportunity arose a few years into his career, he left the world of jurisprudence and joined the new St Petersburg Conservatory to study music.
Much like Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsky’s life was also governed by depression and disappointment – hard to believe knowing what an impact he has had on classical music and that most people in the Western world could recognise at least one or two of his tunes (whether they know it’s Tchaikovsky or not). One of six children, he was sent to an all-male boarding school at the age of ten. Sadly, his mother died of cholera when he was 14. In his thirties, he was briefly married to a Belgian soprano only to have the marriage end in failure after a few weeks. Later on in life, he had a close relationship with the wealthy widow of a railroad tycoon, who became his patroness. Interestingly enough, they agreed never to meet even though they exchanged written correspondence for the fourteen years she supported him. One can assume that much of the adversity and depression in his life was related to the fact that he was gay. Homosexuality was illegal in Russia at the time which forced Tchaikovsky to keep his private life very much under the radar. There is often speculation that his final sixth symphony was written as his own requiem – he died shortly after its completion. There is no evidence to suggest suicide and records show he died of cholera, nevertheless, people always seem to prefer a more dramatic story.
His Fifth Symphony or the ‘Fate’ Symphony starts off ominously with clarinets playing in their lower register accompanied by strings. Sadness and despair are palpable throughout, interspersed with sections of joy and positive energy. Can you hear hints of Russia in the music? In the second movement, the highlight has to be the very long horn solo (this has nothing to do with the fact that I am a horn player). Another beautiful and evocative movement. This contrasts nicely with the lightness and almost carefree feel of the Valse in the third movement. The final movement does have a bit of a heroic feel to it and once again gives the trumpets and trombones a chance to play out (their favourite thing to do). I know you will love this symphony. Tchaikovsky didn’t base it on a particular idea or story officially, but some believe this was his ‘fate’ symphony, written to communicate the sadness and loss he felt throughout his life.
We hope you have enjoyed our cultural adventure. Please let us know if you go to the concert and how you enjoyed it. Do you have a favourite composer of the three?
Feel free to post any questions you may have, even if it’s a restaurant suggestion for after the concert.
Meet the Conductor
- One of South Africa’s up and coming conductors
- Lives in Stellenbosch
- Winner of 5th SA Conductor’s Competition
- Has already conducted the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra, the Free State Symphony Orchestra, the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra and the Cape Town Pops
- Studying piano with Nina Schumann and Luis Magalhaes
- He’s off to Scotland in September to continue his conducting studies
Ever wondered when to clap?
- When concertmaster walks on
- When conductor walks on
- After the first piece
- When soloist walk on
- At the end of the 3rd movement (not before)
- Beginning of symphony
- End of fourth movement
- Then you can clap as much as you like
Sources
- Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia. “Aleksandr Borodin.” Encyclopedia Britannica, February 23, 2023. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Aleksandr-Borodin.
- Dianin, Sergei (1963). Borodin. Translated by Robert Lord. London: Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780313225291.
- Minhall, Anne-Marie. “Borodin: Polovtsian Dances – musical thrills from the chemist who composed too little” https://www.classicfm.com/composers/borodin/guides/polovtsian-dances-anne-marie-minhall/(Accessed on 21/5/23)
- Poznansky, A.. “Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.” Encyclopedia Britannica, May 3, 2023. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Pyotr-Ilyich-Tchaikovsky.
- Taruskin, R. and Seroff, . Victor Ilyich. “Sergey Rachmaninoff.” Encyclopedia Britannica, March 28, 2023. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Sergey-Rachmaninoff.
SPOTIFY PLAYLIST LINK:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6Div2aYBhzthN8djZ5Yu6l?si=1d6df1a6f0ce46ef