After months of planning, our vacation has finally arrived, and we set off on our journey before dawn at 04:15 on 26 December 2022. Excitement was in the air! Thanks to our main sponsor, Irvin Tam, from Amy Bell Charities South Africa, PHASA (the Professional Hunters’ Association of South Africa), and numerous donors, we were able to enjoy an unforgettable 10-day retreat in Summerstrand, Gqeberha. Irvin Tam is an extraordinary person. His compassion towards us was unmistakable, leaving an indelible impression on each and every one of us. His presence had a profound effect, touching the hearts and lives of all who crossed his path. The Amy Angels, part of Irvin’s organisation, helped with supervision, food preparation, and games for the children.

On our way, we stayed overnight at the President Kruger Children’s Home in Reddersburg. We arrived in Gqeberha around 17:00, and excitement filled the bus as an ice cream treat was promised to the first person to spot the sea. To the delight and amusement of all, every imaginary spotting of the  “sea” was joyously proclaimed! The enthusiasm was infectious as imaginations ran wild, and laughter filled the air with each creative suggestion.

The surprise was immense when the sea and all the large ships finally came into view. Uncle Swannie and Auntie Annie Swanepoel told the wide-eyed little ones about everything about the sea, big ships, fishing, and swimming. Unfortunately, we had to wait until the next morning to witness the wonder on their faces because everyone was exhausted and quickly said goodnight, heading straight to bed.

The next morning, silence filled the air as the anticipation of seeing the sea for the very first time ever was overwhelming…

I am very proud of the staff and children of Abraham Kriel Children’s Home Nylstroom. Everywhere we went, we received only positive feedback about our children.

People who follow us on Facebook provided treats and clothes were donated us. A big thank you goes to Leyanca and Linda for their contributions, and to Gary Potgieter from City Montessori School for treating our children to ice cream.

All good things come to an end, and we bid farewell with tight hugs and full hearts. Irvin embraced each one of us, wished us a safe journey, and even invited us to visit again in December this year. His parting words touched everyone deeply: “It was a truly humbling experience, thank you so much!”