FOMO Issue 7 by Thevillage

FOMO What’s gone down, who said what and what you should know…

ISSUE #7

Plants are my favourite children

As we go, we grow. THE BEST BEST THE OF THE THE OF VILLAGE VILLAGE

LEARNING MATTERS

THE VILLAGE VOICE A Villager told me, in the middle of July’s shameful and terrifying looting and rioting (actually let's just call it a disgusting insurrection, because that’s what it was,) that we should all add living in South Africa to our CV. Because surviving here is an accomplishment of the highest order. Talk about being educated in the School Of Life! And, tough as it is, South Africans are not only trained to be strong. As we lurch from abnormal to unusual, the best amongst us, open our hearts and strengthen our spines and in doing so learn to be empathetic, humble, resilient, community-spirited, generous and giving, as well. That is what it means to be a South African. The brave and united push back, by civil society, after this abomination, shows the true, thoroughly decent beating heart of our nation. Evil could have spread like wildfire, ( it has been elsewhere on our planet,) but it didn’t. Of course, more deep cleansing and sweeping up is needed than what we were able to achieve with brooms - but that has already started. As I write, thousands who took part in the looting have been arrested, thousands have already been scheduled for court dates. Convoys from our communities, businesses, Angels and Givers, are on their way to KZN to rebuild. We are battered and bruised but always beautiful, SA. This truth about who we really are, is on display, daily, in our Village community, too. In the past weeks, as the ugly side of our country played its throw of its dice, The Village helped a terminally ill son re-unite with his mother, after appearing to be hopelessly stuck in Vietnam (We helped raise over R175 000 for his flights and future medical bills, Guys, whoa!) We have quietly found the funding for a gifted future psycholgist to study for a 4 year degree to enable him to hopefully support his fellow young men of color, in the future. We have sponsored reading glasses for a clever scholar who can now finally see the board in his classroom. Just a few of the little and enormous acts of grace and generosity which are core to this community’s DNA. These are very dark and scary times, Village, that is for sure. My 85 year-old Father told me, “ South Africa has been here, before and prevailed, VR.” And he is right.

Calling all Southern Suburbs and South Peninsula parents. Are you looking for a smaller, more supportive school environment for your child? This independent hybrid school based in Lakeside offers grade 1-12 learning both in person and virtual (Covid-dependant of course). The curriculum is CAPS aligned, technologically driven and is especially mindful of children with different learning and social needs. In a world that's changing, there's no doubt education is too - and Lakeside Education Academy is here for that. Click here for more information.

Th monis th

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We will return to abnormal soon. (I'ts not ever “normal," living here.) My own prescription for terrible times? Do Good. Be the helper. Lean in. Being kind, being part of a team for good, being a force for hope and resilience, in the storm, is the best medicine there is.

Vanessa

I GUESS THAT’S A NO FROM YOU… Stiletto Crocs anyone? Thanks for bringing in the laughs with your post, Gabi Milne!

 1 800 posts  40 944 comments  Members: 40 758  176 382 likes and shares

Gabi Milne Crocs have decided to team up with famous fashion brand Balenciaga to create a new "high heeled Croc". I have so much to say, yet no words...

Hayley Leibowitz-Lipchin It's a crocovile.

Lynda Silk a croc of shite?

Christina Storm Every day we stray further away from God...

Nomfusi Jwaai See those little holes... there goes one's dignity, gone gone gone

Katrien Heere Now that's what I call a croc up...

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Carlene Reid Covid, loadshedding, now high-heeled crocs. How much worse can this get? This is why aliens won't invade earth. They searching for intelligent life, and this is what's trending when they Google 'Earth'

Do not try this at home... WARNING:

“You’re only as old as you feel” might apply to a lot of things, except cartwheels… and slippy slides… and somersaults… and and and!

QUALITY FAMILY TIME

Three great board and card games the whole family can enjoy (not endure) SETTLERS OF CATAN

MONOPOLY DEAL

EXPLODING KITTENS

This board game involves the earning and trading of resources to build roads, settlements and cities. The great thing is you stand to gain resources with every player’s dice role so you’re never just left sitting. Plus, it’s fast moving – the game is over in less than an hour. It’s a three or four player game, but you can buy an additional extension to take it up to six. Guaranteed to bring out your inner hustler.

If never-ending games of Monopoly have left you scarred, then switch to Monopoly Deal. A similar premise to Monopoly, in that you collect properties and cash, but with wild cards thrown in for some added fun and no banker. Ideal for three to five players – with a game lasting around 15 minutes. Super fun.

This is a card game with a pretty simple premise. You don’t want to draw an Exploding Kitten card from the deck, because that’s it, you explode and are out of the game. There are loads of action and collectible cards too that allow you to try and pre-empt this terrible fiery fate. Lots of silly fun for everyone.

FOMO #7

TEST ME NOW

Tips for when it’s all just too much

When an Anonymous Villager posted that her tank wasn’t just empty, but rusty and falling apart, our wonderful community stepped in with words of comfort and advice Listen to Nightbirde’s song, “It’s okay”. Just for today, put one foot in front of the other, breathe, exhale. It’s all going to be okay.” – Hajra Cassim All I can say is find bubbles (15 minutes a day) to dedicate to yourself. Listen to music. Sit in the car. Just breathe.” – Vicki Mason Please consider taking high quality Vit B supplements or getting a series of Vit B injections at a clinic. Vit B gets depleted at times of stress. This can lead to anxiety and depression Just this simple supplement helps pull me out of the woods sometimes.” – Lorna Symons This might sound trivial and very simple. But walking has changed our lives. We started in January and walk every single evening after work, even if it’s dark. I immediately feel calm and all the stresses of the day vanish. When we are finished, we sit on the wall and buy a coffee, and watch the sun set.” – Jenni Twigg Reach out for professional help (counsellor) it really does help. You are not alone.” – Carrie-Ann Deysel-Tobias

“This journey has been too long.... and I don’t have the strength to jump over the obstacles. I want to withdraw from everything around me. I’m angry, I’m scared and my chest feels like I have 3 tons of steel pressing hard against it. With every bit I have left in me I force myself to grasp onto wisps of normality, but most days I just can’t anymore.” – Anonymous

We’re living in such uncertain times and right now, nothing will give you better peace of mind than a rapid Covid test.

ng We’re voti e on a nam change!

FORGET THE VILLAGE, FROM NOW ON IT'S THE VINEYARD! Thanks for making us smile, Ann Stewart! It seems we all agree on this one…

PRINT OUT AND PUT ON YOUR FRIDGE!

Peter Ruthenberg knows the rules! Thanks for sharing, Peter! 03

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Never mind the teens, clearly the dogs and cats rule these homes! “Another pillow, please.” – Zann Hoad

“Yup, it’s long enough.” – Kelly ChaningPearce

“Just keeping it warm…”

“Guys, stop crowding me!”

– Angela Reid Rawlinson

– Alexa Russell Matthews

“Who, me?” – Lindy McBain La Grange

Save this number: 067 325 4228 Test Me Now tests are SAHPRA approved. They offer bulk test purchases, corporate onsite testing and a convenient WhatsApp booking service around the country. Click here for more.

You are so brave, and YOU JUST SPOKE FOR ME TOO. I am so tired. I feel you, I see you.” – Genevieve Jurgens We have started a playlist on Spotify, and it has just expanded daily! Songs that reminds us of faith and hope, songs that lift our heads up and speak into the darkness! Every day I turn it up full volume!” – Lollie de Manielle

Need answers now? A qualified professional from the Test Me Now team will perform a test safely and in the comfort of your own home or office. You can also purchase tests to keep on hand for selftesting. • Allay any ‘have I been exposed?' fears. • Ensure safety for business, friends or family gatherings. • Keep an eye on antibody levels

Pet Takeover

“It’s all about the thread count...”

“So, I was saying…”

– Nicola Hayes

– Shannon Mackay

DID YOU KNOW….

It’s really easy to create an Anonymous post on The Village – and a lot less risky than asking Vanessa to post it anonymously! She uploads more than 1500 posts a month, and sometimes things get a little mixed up…

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HERE’S HOW: Before you start writing your post, click the Anonymous Post button on the bottom left. That will remove your name, and the post will appear under Anonymous. Easy!

5 tips to get your teen to talk At a time when your teen is trying to distance themselves from you (but, thanks to the pandemic just can’t get away!) these tips will help you get more than one-word answers to your questions

TAP INTO THEIR PASSION If your teen has a particular interest (even if it is FIFA) clue yourself up a bit on what’s what so that you can hold a conversation with them about it. Ask them to explain stuff you don’t understand – make them the expert. Now’s the time for you to listen and learn.

MAKE DRIVE TIME CHAT TIME Use your time in the car driving together to have meaningful conversations. You’ll find its often easier to talk when you aren’t eye-to-eye.

LEARN WHEN TO WRAP IT UP Teens have short attention spans and a chat can easily turn into a lecture if you don’t know when to end it. What you think is fascinating might very well be dull for your teenager, so gauge their enthusiasm before chatting on too long.

ZIP IT! When your child does decide to talk to you, make sure you’re listening. Don’t interrupt – and don’t feel you always need to share your opinion, first check if they want to hear it. And remember what they’ve told you, so you can share it back to them at appropriate times to show their stories and opinions are important.

WATCH THEIR SHOWS Don’t assume because your teen loves a specific series you won’t. Suggest watching together – you’ll get great insights into what they’re connecting with.

FOMO #7

SPIN DOCTOR 3 reasons why we love the Spindel

ONLINE DATING Villagers' stamp of approval

Adam and Lana this is the best!

• It’s portable – pop the Spindel into your broom cupboard when it’s not in use and say goodbye to your tumbledrier as you won’t ever need it again. • The Spindel speeds up laundry day by spinning out any extra water or detergent – clothes and linen are iron dry in 10 minutes.

Online dating can be scary territory. These sites got your stamp of approval Dating Buzz

• Say goodbye to clothes horses of damp laundry dotted around the house – plus you’ll be amazed at the huge saving in electricity costs.

Elite Singles Bumble Raya

Thanks for red flags, Marian!

www.spindel.co.za

IF EVOLUTION EVOLUTION WORKS, WORKS, HOW HOW COME COME IF MOTHERS ONLY HAVE TWO HANDS? 07

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SCREENAGER SMARTS WITH KLIKD

Screen addiction is a thing – and Klikd is here to help you help your tweens and teens navigate this space without feeling judged

We all know how worrying and challenging it can be to manage your screenagers and the love of their lives - the smartphone/Xbox/ iPad [insert other digital device here]. Add the third wave, closed schools and gaming behind closed doors and there is definite cause for concern. The Klikd app gives t/weens MEDIA LICENSE: all the skills and knowledge they need to use social media successfully. • How to manage tricky people online • Cyberbullying • Online reputation • Phone addiction

VILLAGE

BOOK CLUB

DOGGIE DETERENT When Sharon Hitchner Almond asked what product to use to spray on her carpet where her dog messed, and to stop him doing it there again, there were some genius suggestions

Being a reader is such a gift – you’re never lonely or bored. Here are your reading recommendations for young teen boys • The Maze Runner series by James Dashner • The Underland Chronicles by Suzanne Collins • Ranger’s Apprentice series by John Flanagan • Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins • Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan • Diary of a Wimpy Kid series by Jeff Kinney

Did you enjoy this issue of FOMO? Would you like to contribute to our running costs and The Village fund that donates to as many worthy causes as we can? Please consider a donation via our Snapscan.

FUTURE LEARNING

The South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP) believes the future of tertiary learning involves integrating critical 21st century skills with related subjects that can be applied to multiple work environments. We’re already seeing that people empowerd with higher EQ and Applied Psychology skills are creating new and exciting realities and business opportunities for themselves – and SACAP qualifications may help you or your child too. Visit www.sacap.edu.za to view the degree offerings, many of which come with flexible terms. 09

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HOW TO SUPPORT A PARENT WHO HAS LOST A CHILD

ALL THE FEELS

Villager Sue White is the brains behind the Netflix series, A Dog For Life, all about matching rescue dogs with their forever homes. It’s an unplifting, inspiring gem full of furry and nonfurry characters and lots of love and hope. Go take a watch! Here’s some feedback from Villagers who’ve already tuned in: Seleste Ward I love this series. Started last night!

Jacqui Simpson Such a brilliant series! Bingeworthy

Linda Carstens I watched the whole series in two sittings. Loved every story. I have a eautiful, loving rescue pitbull and can so relate to all the cases.

Kirsten Mack I am loving this series!

The grief of losing a child is unimaginable for those of us who haven’t experienced that devastating pain. Here is what parents who have lost a child wish other people knew

SAY THEIR NAME

“Often, when we know someone else is experiencing grief, our discomfort keeps us from approaching it head-on. But we want the world to remember our child or children, no matter how young or old our child was,” says author and grief counsellor Paula Stephens, who lost her son, Brandon. “If you see something that reminds you of my child, tell me. If you are reminded at the holidays or on his birthday that I am missing my son, please tell me you remember him. And when I speak his name or relive memories, relive them with me; don't shrink away. If you never met my son, don't be afraid to ask about him. One of my greatest joys is talking about him.”

NEED SUPPORT? The Compassionate Friends offers support and understanding to bereaved parents. Visit compassionatefriends.co.za to find out more SILENCE IS DEAFENING

“I know it must be very difficult and confusing to know what to say to someone who has lost a child,” writes Malka Ahmed on stillstandingmag.com, a website dedicated to topics related to grieving a child. “I know how uncomfortable and unfathomable it must be to you, but please know that wrongly worded sentiments are easier to forgive than your silence. My world has forever been shattered, a simple ‘I’m sorry’ will do.” TIME DOES NOT HEAL ALL WOUNDS

“I will grieve for a lifetime. Period. The end. There is no ‘moving on’ or ‘getting over it’. For as long as I breathe, I will grieve and ache and love my son with all my heart and my soul,” says Angela Miller, who runs a grief support blog, abedformyheart.com. “There will never come a time when I won’t think about who my son would be, what he would look like, and how he would be woven perfectly into the tapestry of my family. I wish people could understand that grief lasts forever because love lasts forever; that the loss of a child is not a finite event.”

KRUGER HOLIDAY Village recommended Planning a holiday in and around the Kruger Park? These spots got your seal of approval “Have a look at Umlani Bushcamp in Timbavati. Wonderful” – Sam Deacon 1

2 “We love Letaba and Mopani in Kruger Park.” – Philippa Sandmann

“We’ve just come back from the Kruger. We spent the first two nights up north and at incredible bush camp called Shimuwini … on a river where we saw crocs, hippos, elephants etc – there are no shops, restaurants or cell phone signal in the camp.” – Tracy Burnett 3

“Also recently back from Kruger. Shimuwini was absolutely lovely. Right on the river and also had loads of ele and hippos right in front of us. Oliphant bush camp is also lovely. If you get in ask for chalet 16 - has a stunning view of the river. Lower Sabie is also lovely. On your way there or back do yourself a favour and overnight in Dulstroom. A most beautiful little town with so much character. Be sure to book your spot at Mrs Simpson restaurant. One of the top restaurants in SA.” – Laverne Bright

SPECIALIST LAUNDRY DRYER DRY LAUNDRY FASTER Leaves fabrics almost dry in just 3 minutes

SAVE ENERGY Uses 100 times less electricity than tumble drying

PRESERVE FABRICS No heat damage and safe for all fabrics

Make laundry day simple. With Spindel.

Saves time and money!!

“We stayed over at Kruger Park Lodge in Hazyview. Loved it!” – Selma Pedretti 5

Graskop Gorge and the glass lift is a lovely day out. Followed by pancakes at Harrie’s Pancakes for days when you aren’t game driving.” – Kirsty MacConachie Weaver 6

EVERYDAY HAPPINESS IS A STRUGGLE

“It's an ongoing battle to balance the pain and guilt of outliving your child with the desire to live in a way that honours them and their time on this earth,” says Paula. “I remember going on a family cruise 18 months after Brandon died. On the first day, I stood at the back of the ship and bawled that I wasn't sharing this experience with him. Then I had to steady myself and recognise that I was also creating memories with my surviving sons, and enjoy the time with them in the present moment.” 11

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SpindelSA Spindel uses spin power instead of heat to reduce drying times and electricity costs. Now available from R1 999. Call 0860 555 135 or visit www.spindel.co.za for stockists.

DONATE HAIR

ER WINN N N I ER W

How to

E K C HI

Thank you Janine De Klerk-Naiker for this simply delicious chicken pie recipe – just like mom used to make it! Perfect for these winter evenings

“I roast two chickens in the oven, once cooled I strip off all the meat. In a pot I braise my onions and mushrooms and garlic. Add the chicken along with a packet (or two) of white onion soup powder. I usually add some diced carrots and peas too. This usually makes enough for two pies. I roll out puff pastry and add filling and egg wash. Bake at 180 degrees celsius on middle shelf until golden brown. The second pie I don’t bake, I cling wrap securely and place in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 6 weeks.”

If you or your child is lobbing off your locks, Cansa is once again accepting hair donations to make wigs for cancer survivors. Here’s everything you need to know: • While CANSA prefers ponytail donations of hair that is 25 cm or longer, shorter hair can also be donated as it can be used as a filler. • Hair should be clean and dry. • All hair whether dyed or treated is acceptable. • When cutting the hair, please bind both ends with an elastic band and place in a zip-lock bag (this preserves it in the best condition while being transported to the wig manufacturer). • Hair can be dropped off at your local Cansa Care Centre. To find your closest centre, click here https://cansa.org.za/cansa-carecentres-contact-details/ • If you’ve got any questions about hair donation or would like to find out about wig hire, send an email to: info@cansa.org.za

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MATRIC IS TOUGH BUT WE CAN HELP

Writing matric in 2021 is a very different experience from 30 years ago The pressure is greater, the competition is fiercer and you are under a ton of stress. Join SACAP’s upcoming webinars for holistic tips and practical tools to help you cope. Tracy Zetta Pretorius  The Village

Me as a parent trying to hide my snacks from the unemployed lazy people in my house.

HIDE AND SNEAK

Judging by all the comments and likes it seems you’re not alone on this, Tracy! 13

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STUDENT STUDY HACK

PARENT’S GUIDE TO MATRIC SUPPORT

DATE: 14 August 2021

DATE: 21 August 2021

TIME: 10:00 - 11:30

TIME: 10:00 - 11:00

RSVP: Click here to register for our free webinar CPT

DUR

JHB

PTA

ONLINE