OYSTERHOOD is reclusiveness or solitude, or an overwhelming desire to stay at home.

— @HaggardHawks

My love and I went to Greyton for the launch of The Skipper’s Daughter by Nancy Richards today. At the event, we had the perfect audience (welcoming and attentive), venue (beautiful garden of Nancy’s friends), wine (Gabriëlskloof), weather (spring sunshine) and, of course, the perfect story to tell: The Skipper’s Daughter and her author are an irresistible duo. It was a lovely literary afternoon in the sun.

While we were in Greyton, Penny Haw was signing copies of her The Wilderness Between Us at EB Constantia. I am sorry I could not attend, but two Karavan Press authors did, Melissa A. Volker and Cathy Park Kelly. Seeing them together in a photograph made me count my lucky stars – how fortunate am I to work with these fabulous women!? In Greyton, we were joined for the launch by Christy Weyer of Liberty Books. Another superwoman, who is one of the most dedicated booksellers I know. And, of course, there was Nancy – who praised the women who shaped her path, including her larger-than-life mother.

Back home now, I am having a cup of tea in bed while typing and I am just overwhelmed with gratitude that my own path has crossed with the paths of these women, who bring light, wisdom and joy into my life.

And the day was so much more special because it could be shared with my love. He has had a rough week (to say the least), so it was good to be able to do something lighthearted together and to just get away. It was my first time in Greyton and I thought it was beyond charming – certainly a place to return to.

It was also the first time I tried out my Yoco – it worked perfectly, and many books were sold.

In the evening, after returning home, I did not feel like leftovers or cooking and all I could think of was pizza. I first considered a takeaway, but when I saw how empty Bruegels was, I decided to have my pizza then and there.

The perfect end to a perfect day.

Be kind. Wear a mask. Support local. Get vaccinated, please.

“Physical distancing remains one of the key strategies to curb this pandemic.”

— NICD