Where the White Storks Migrate, Folktales and Histories Along their Path

a mustering of storks at the beginning of their migration, February 2025

For centuries, the white storks migrated witnessing humanity’s triumphs and tragedies unfold beneath its wings. From the old African tribes to the sacred temples of Egypt and the battlefields of the Levant; from the grandeur of Ottoman palaces to the villages of Romania, the white storks have traveled through space and time. They carry no bias, no memory of war or peace. Only the rhythm of migration and the promise of return. And so, when it takes flight again, it remains, as ever, a silent witness to the world’s unfolding tale.

Yesterday, on the 21st of February, we witnessed the white storks taking flight on their migratory journey. Let’s join them.

15/02/202522/02/2025

The Legend of the Lilly Pilly and How to Make This Delicious Jam

lilly pilly tree with small red berry fruit

The Legend of the Lilly Pilly Spirit

Long ago, before the land bore the marks of iron and stone, the first people of the great southern lands spoke of a tree unlike any other—the Lilly Pilly. It was said that this tree had been a gift from the Spirit of the Waters who moved unseen through the world, whispering wisdom to those who listened.

11/07/202401/08/2024

Dilmah Extra Strength and Premium Black Tea, Beautiful Floral Pick-me-up

Choosing between Dilmah Extra Strength and Premium Ceylon black tea, a review: aroma, taste and color. Caffeine content, best pairing of black tea, secret tips.

Choosing to brew tea daily was a bold infusion for me. As someone who cherished the robust, invigorating punch of daily coffee, I was skeptical about finding a strong tea that could match that intensity. But then I encountered Dilmah Extra Strength black tea, a blend so rich and full-bodied that it left me smiling. It’s not just tea; it’s an experience.

06/07/202401/08/2024

Birds from a South African Garden and Their Beautiful Legends

Thrush Bird checking expecting an answer

Birdwatching is a serene escape into the natural world, offering wonder through observing avian plumage, songs, and behaviors, not to mention discovering unique legends. Birdwatching fosters patience and mindfulness, reminding us of nature’s beauty in the Anthropocene era.

Discover the following garden birds making their nests in our back yard in Gauteng, South Africa: Cape Sparrow or Mossie, Southern Masked Weaver, Cape Glossy Starling, Cape-Turtle Dove, Laughing Dove, Karoo Thrush Bird, Tiptol Bird or Dark-Capped Bulbul, Crested Barbet, and Red-Head Barbet today.

Coming soon: Dark-capped bulbul, Grey Go-Away Bird (Lourie), Southern Boubou, Common Myna (Indian Myna), Hadeda Ibis, African Hoopoe, Red Billed Wood Hoopoe, Cape White-Eye, Thick-Billed Weaver, and more, as soon as they visit our garden.

15/03/202401/08/2024

Into the Tower of St. Mary’s Evangelical Church Sibiu, Daring, Hypnotic, and Legendary

Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral four turrets, symbology

St. Mary’s Evangelical Church of Sibiu, with its imposing presence shrouded in mystery, steeped in centuries-old legends, still beckons those who dare to explore its depths. As twilight descends on the city once known as Hermannstadt to the four corners of the world, its ancient streets echo of St. Mary’s Evangelical Church mysterious whispers. Undoubtedly, the cloak of twilight still draws curious souls to the towering silhouette of this Lutheran Cathedral.