Blue Hills Equestrian Estate | October 2019

FEATUR ES 22 28 34

T HE A RT OF L ET T ING G O PA US ING T IME ON TH E W I N D O W T O A FR IC A’S S OU L IM PER FEC T LY PER FEC T

EQUESTRIAN

living

IS S UE 5 | O CTOBE R 2 0 1 9

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back and relax and release oulders and the space around sturbance simply come up takes only a moment of will pass.

d practice will get easier over u will spend most of your n witness consciousness. habit of letting go and of being bothered. Just keep no longer become involved mind.

and again, and each will be earn to relax and release. rself living from this uff of the world that once o be aDisclaimer: problem.This It will just be e-Magazine is produced especially will keep changing, while youEquestrian Estate to for residents/owners of Blue Hills provide updates and information. It is produced nd it all - remain theuseful same. by K-Studio on behalf of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate nt to the spiritual practice of HOA. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy our body and soul with these of content, Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA and/or ritualsthefrom Holistic Publisher, cannot beHealth held liable for any inaccurate eigh Harrison: information, and may not agree with all opinions

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L E T T E R F RO M T HE E S TAT E M AN AG E R

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I M PO RTAN T I N F O RM AT I O N & CO N TACT S

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F RO M T HE S AL E S M AN AG E R

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CO M M U N I CAT I O N F RO M T HE BO ARD

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S N AK E S & S U M M E R

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T HE PAT I O : AN E XT E N S I O N O F I N DO O R CO M F O RT AN D S T YL E

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PU T I T I N YO U R DI ARY

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T HE ART O F LETTING GO

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W HAT ’ S N E W

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PAU S I N G T I M E O N T HE W I N DO W T O AF RI CA’ S S O U L

ESCAPE TO THE PILANESB

Ivory Tree Game Lodge is situated in the north-eastern region of the Pilanesbe in an ancient amphitheatre divided by riverine woodlands. The central facility bar, conference room, dining room, boma, reception and curio sh

Ivory Tree Game Lodge offers 5-Star accommodation in the malaria Big Five Pilanesberg Game Reserve. All 67 rooms are decorated in earthy to comfortable outside seating areas to enjoy the surrounding wildern

BOOK YOUR STAY +27 10 442 5800 | cro@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za

patio perfection

expressed in this publication.

s ability to support you ishing yourself with a iet. Avoid coffee and werfulFollow superfoods like Us On nd cacao (if you’re not @KSDigitalPublishing lating effect) as well as ashwagandha@ksdigitalpublishing and reishi encing autoimmune issues

3 ISSU E 5 • 20 19

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

T H I NK O UTS I D E THE B OX

OUTDOOR BLINDS Think outside the box when decorating your home. Get that modern contemporary look for your outdoor living space with the Outdoor Blind. The hi-tech material manages heat and glare on your patio and other outdoor while still maintaining your special view.

2019 • I SSUE spaces 5 4

Telephone Joburg: +27 11 434 1075 Cape Town: +27 82 766 6779 E-mail: info@blindtime.co.za Showroom: 4 Jasper Road, Robertsham, Johannesburg South

ESTATE NEWS

From The

BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Estate Manager’s Desk Happy spring to all our residents!

As we say goodbye to the cold and a flowery hello with a spring in our steps, I’d like to encourage our residents to get started on your summer gardens. Now is the time to spread topsoil on your lawns, to plant those new seedlings in your gardens, and who knows you might just work off those extra kilos you gained in front of the fireplace over winter ;)

without being announced and without following the correct access control process at the Estate. This has been addressed extensively with Security and going forward no contractor will be permitted entry into the Estate without consent or without being announced by Security. This applies to both completed stands as well as construction stands.

Our landscaping company has been hard at work planting new flower beds around the Estate and revamping old ones to welcome the new season. Trees have been pruned and we should see some changes on Mopani road within the next month.

General consideration by all residents for each other will greatly assist in achieving a happy community and a pleasant environment. Harmonious community living is only achieved when residents can use and enjoy their private property as well as the public areas of the Estate while not negatively impacting fellow residents.

As construction continues in the Estate, homeowners are requested to ensure that their contractors are aware of the rules of the Estate.

Please be vigilant at all times and report any suspicious activity to the office or to security.

Security is of paramount concern for all and we are constantly working on improving the standing of the Estate. It has been brought to our attention that a number of contractors have been entering the Estate

You can contact me on rashnia@trafalgar.co.za or 010 109 0935.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Rashni 5 ISSU E 5 • 20 19

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

IMPORTANT INFORMATION & CONTACTS

BLUE HILLS EQUESTRIAN ESTATE MANAGEMENT BODY

THE BOARD IS MADE UP OF: • • • • • • •

Andile Mtetwa Heather Bowes Jessica Hofmeyr John Frayne Nick Crow Obakeng Mathibe Ugesparan Govender

The Blue Hills Equestrian Estate management body has been developed to ensure that should you have a query or wish to address anything on the Estate, we have a team of individuals you can refer your concerns to. This Committee goes beyond our THE COMMITTEE IS SUPPORTED BY monthly Directors’ Meetings, and is instead aimed TRAFALGAR WHO ARE REPRESENTED BY: at ensuring that the running of this Estate is handled • Michael Schaefer / Director of Trafalgar with all due care.

• Shahiem Carr / Director of Trafalgar • Brendan Beech / Estate Portfolio Manager • Rashni Andhee-Shah / Estate Manager • Head office support Birdhaven

ESTATE MANAGER Rashni Andhee-Shah 010 109 0935 SALES MANAGER Musi Motsuenyane 082 806 1735 / musi@century.co.za SECURITY SITE MANAGER 076 771 9082/ 061 704 0111 Bluehills@thompsec.co.za EMERGENCY Eskom 086 0037 566 JHB Water 0860 562 874 Police 10111 Ambulance 10177 SPCA 011 265 9935 SNAKE CATCHER Mike 083 448 8854

2019 • I SSUE 5 6

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS & REACH YOUR TARGET

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR NEXT ISSUE e tobia@k-studio.co.za

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

from the Sales Manager Blue Hills Equestrian Estate 87% sold Blue Hills Equestrian Estate is the epitome of country living and provides the opportunity to build your dream family home in a secure environment away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Current Statistics Stands Sold 115 Available Stands 17 Total Stands 132 Percentage sold 87% Building Statistics Completed Stands 26 Under Construction 31 If you have been considering investing, your timing could not be better to secure your dream property as there is limited stock.

Regards, Mmusi Motsuenyane | 082 806 1735 | musi@century.co.za 7 ISSU E 5 • 20 19

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

COMMUNICATION FROM THE BOARD

DID YOU KNOW

THERE IS A RECYCLING COLLECTION SERVICE IN BLUE HILLS EQUESTRIAN ESTATE?

We are all aware of the slogan “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” but how many of us take the time to really think about it and implement it into our daily lives and homes – my guess would be not enough of us. The amount of waste generated increases exponentially each year as our population continues to grow in numbers as does the pressure on natural resources.

The CSIR conducted studies in 2010 and the results were alarming. Only 3.3% of South Africa’s urban population regularly recycles. A further study conducted in 2011 by CSIR shows that 25 % of an estimated 19 million tons of municipal waste consisted of recyclable products like glass, paper, tin and plastic.

About 45% of South Africa’s municipal waste is generated in Gauteng. What is scary is that the provinces landfill sites only have about another 10 years of lifespan. There is only one solution 2019 • I SSUE 5 8

to this issue – start recycling now!

Phambili Services makes recycling easy for the residents of our Estate. All you need to get started is to collect a recycling bag from the office and you are on your way. There is no need to separate your recyclables – glass, paper, plastic, tin etc. can all go into the same bag. Put your bag out on a Monday and the Phambili team will collect it and leave you with replacement bags.

If you need additional bags, contact Rashni at the office. Please see the Phambili article below for more information.

Let’s all join forces in creating a sustainable future for our children.

Warm Regards,

Heather Bowes Chairperson

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Phambili Services (PTY) LTD is a leading waste management company established in 1996 in recognition of the growing need for sustainable integrated waste management solutions in the waste management sector in South Africa. In partnership with Pikitup in October 2017 Phambili Services commenced the rollout of the Separation@Source programme in Ward 112 in the Midrand area.

already managed to successfully divert 181 000 tons of recycles after just 4 months of operation in the Midrand area.

Let’s turn Joburg into a city that is environmentally friendly and do our bit to save the environment

by Reducing, Re-Using and Recycling. For more information on this project please contact us on 0861 767 666

Diverting waste away from landfill sites has been the key objective of Pikitup and the City Of Joburg and has been made simple through the Separation @ Source Programme currently being rolled out. Through the programme, residents are encouraged to recycle waste generated from their houses. The service is free of charge, and each household is given a complimentary blue plastic bag which must be used for the placement of all recyclable materials on a weekly basis. Residents will use their black wheelie bins to dispose of non-recyclable materials. Recyclable materials are classified as all paper, cardboard, cans, plastic, glass containers and jars encompassing all “dry waste” produced by each household.

Phambili Services will collect the blue bags filled with recyclables once a week and sort the recyclables at our sorting facility in Clayville.

Please join in the success of this project as we have

9 ISSU E 5 • 20 19

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

SNAKES & Summer

Article by Johan Marais African Snakebite Institute

With the onset of spring we are seeing warmer weather and soon the first rains. This also brings out snakes and we have already noticed an increase in snake activity.

Several snake species have adapted well to urbanisation and it is not unusual to find harmless snakes like the Brown House Snake, Herald Snake and Slug-eater in gardens. Several houses are adjacent to open veld, nature reserves or may even be situated within large residential estates. Some of these estates are eco-friendly or even wildlife estates.

Despite popular belief, there are no effective snake repellents. This includes the likes of Jeyes Fluid, old oil, certain plants, and a variety of commercially available snake repellents. Snakes enter gardens in search of food, and they prey on rodents, frogs, lizards, birds and their eggs.

Sadly, several highly venomous snakes may also be found in residential areas and in Pretoria East.

Several Rinkhals, Mozambique Spitting Cobras, Snouted Cobras, Puff Adders and Night Adders are removed from residences every year. In the greater Durban area, a number of Mozambique Spitting Cobras and Black Mambas are removed from properties every year, whereas Cape Cobras 2019 • I SSUE 5 1 0

are problematic in the Western and Eastern Cape as well as the Northern Cape. These snakes are shy and quick to escape but if cornered or attacked by dogs they bite readily.

Should any snake be encountered it is best to immediately retreat five paces or more and to observe the snake from a safe distance. Do not attempt to catch or kill any snake and avoid using braai tongs or the likes. Call a snake remover immediately – there are more than 500 snake removers country wide on the free ASI Snakes App – http://bit.ly/snakebiteapp.

The App can be downloaded onto any modern cellphone.

If a snake has spat into a person’s eyes, rinse the eyes immediately with water and go to a medical doctor. This is easily treatable, and most victims recover fully within about three days.

Most snakebites occur in the warm wet summer months and in the evening – when people accidentally stand on snakes. The African Snakebite Institute App – ASI Snakes – offers advice in their First Aid section but the most important thing to do after a snakebite is to get the victim to the nearest hospital that has a trauma unit.

ESTATE NEWS

We are often asked which hospitals stock antivenom and whether one should purchase antivenom for snakebite emergencies.

Antivenom, though highly effective when required, is not a first aid measure and should only be administered by a medical doctor in a hospital environment. It is very expensive, costing around R15,000 – R20,000 per treatment and must be refrigerated. Polyvalent antivenom also expires after three years.

The majority of snakebite victims do not need antivenom as most bites are not that serious, but that needs to be decided on by the treating doctor and a thorough assessment must been done. As for the snake responsible for a bite, its identity is not critical although it may help to photograph it from a safe distance. Most snakebite victims have no idea what snake bit them.

As for snakebites, over 90% of serious snakebites in South Africa are inflicted by the Mozambique

BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Spitting Cobra and Puff Adder, as well as the Rhombic Night Adder and Bibron’s Stiletto Snake. The venoms of these snakes are largely cytotoxic, causing pain, swelling, blistering and potentially tissue damage but fatalities are rare.

We have around a dozen fatal snakebites in South Africa every year, mostly as a result of Black Mamba and Cape Cobra bites. The venoms of these two snakes are potently neurotoxic and causes progressive weakness and eventually affects breathing. It is of utmost importance to get the victim to the closest trauma unit where he/she can be ventilated and then treated with antivenom if required.

As for pets, if your pet is spat in the eyes or bitten by a snake, get it to the nearest vet as soon as possible. There is little else one can do and forcing milk down the pet’s throat, getting it to swallow charcoal or giving it Allergex tablets will do absolutely nothing to save your pet’s life – if it is a serious bite the pet will require antivenom.

Rinkals

Snouted Cobra

Night Adder

Puff Adder 11 ISSU E 5 • 2019

ESTATE NEWS

COMMON SNAKES OF JHB/PRETORIA

BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Johannesburg and Pretoria have a great variety of snakes with most of them not considered dangerous. Two species can inflict painful bites while five species can be considered very dangerous.

M I L D LY VENOMOUS Not thought to be harmful

DANGEROUS Painful bite, but does not require antivenom

VERY DANGEROUS Rinkhals (Hemachatus haemachatus)

Snouted Cobra - banded phase (Naja annulifera)

Rhombic Night Adder (Causus rhombeatus)

HARMLESS Aurora House Snake (Lamprophis aurora)

Johan Marais | African Snakebite Institute +27 82 494 2039 | johan@asiorg.co.za

www. AFRICANSNAKEBITEINSTITUTE .com

VERY DANGEROUS Puff Adder (Bitis arietans arietans)

M I L D LY VENOMOUS Herald or Red-lipped Snake (Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia)

Spotted Skaapsteker (Psammophylax rhombeatus)

JOHAN MARAIS is the author of various books on reptiles including the best-seller A Complete Guide to Snakes of Southern Africa. He is a popular public speaker and offers a variety of courses including Snake Awareness, Scorpion Awareness and Venomous Snake Handling. Johan is accredited by the International Society of Zoological Sciences (ISZS) and is a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) and Travel Doctor-approved service provider. His courses are also accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

2019 • I SSUE 5 1 2

Mozambique Spitting Cobra (Naja mossambica) Photo Martin Smit

M I L D LY VENOMOUS

HARMLESS Brown House Snake (Boaedon capensis)

VERY DANGEROUS

DANGEROUS

M I L D LY VENOMOUS Short-snouted Grass Snake (Psammophis brevirostris)

Not dangerous to humans

VERY DANGEROUS

DANGEROUS Bibron’s Stiletto Snake (Atractaspis bibronii) Photo Warren Dick

HARMLESS

HARMLESS Bibron’s Blind Snake (Afrotyphlops bibronii )

HARMLESS

HARMLESS Rhombic Egg-eater (Dasypeltis scabra)

Common Brown Water Snake (Lycodonomorphus rufulus) Photo Tyrone Ping

M I L D LY VENOMOUS Black-headed Centipede-eater (Aparallactus capensis)

CAN INFLICT A NASTY BITE Mole Snake (Pseudaspis cana)

© Johan Marais African Snakebite Institute

VERY DANGEROUS Has caused human fatalities

EMERGENCY PROTOCOL IN THE EVENT OF A SNAKE BITE 1 Keep the victim calm, immobilized and transport the victim to the closest hospital without delay.

2 If the victim stops breathing, resort to artificial respiration or make use of a Bag Valve Mask.

3 Call the Poison Information Centre helpline for further advice: 0861 555 777.

DO NOT ... apply a tourniquet. ... cut and suck the wound. ... use ice or very hot water. ... give the victim alcohol. ... apply electric shock. ... inject antivenom randomly.

Antivenom (if required) must be administered by a doctor in a hospital environment.

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ESCAPE TO THE PILANESBERG Ivory Tree Game Lodge is situated in the north-eastern region of the Pilanesberg National Park, in an ancient amphitheatre divided by riverine woodlands. The central facility includes a pool, bar, conference room, dining room, boma, reception and curio shop.

Ivory Tree Game Lodge offers 5-Star accommodation in the malaria-free, Big Five Pilanesberg Game Reserve. All 67 rooms are decorated in earthy tones and offer comfortable outside seating areas to enjoy the surrounding wilderness.

BOOK YOUR STAY +27 10 442 5800 | cro@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za 2019 • I SSUE 5 1 4

A MEMBER OF

HOTELS & LODGES

THE | HEALTH & WELLNESS

RELAX IN THE LAP OF LUXURY aha Makalali Main Lodge is a newly built 5 star lodge. It has 30 comfortably designed superior rooms with en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers. The rooms are air-conditioned and feature luxurious interiors with classic leather and wood furnishings. aha Makalali Main Lodge’s central area offer is strikingly designed with flowing spaces that effortlessly redirect the outside elements indoors.

The lodge features a rim flow swimming pool overlooking the waterhole, outdoor dining facilities on raised decks, luxurious spa and a boma.

BOOK YOUR STAY +27 10 442 5800 | cro@aha.co.za| www.aha.co.za 15 ISSUA MEMBER E 5 • OF2019

HOTELS & LODGES

WHAT’S NEW BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

THE PATIO: AN EXTENSION OF INDOOR COMFORT AND STYLE Stoep, veranda, braai room, entertainment area – the patio goes by many names. It just goes to show that it is a room equally appreciated by diverse personalities. But this season it doesn’t matter what you call the home’s connection to the outdoors, all that matters is that you make proper use of it. We look at what patio trends are popping up across the world: Furniture: Hanging Chairs & Comfortable Seating This season, patio furniture is all about bringing the indoors outside and creating comfort – from hanging chairs and outdoor daybeds to cosy couches that invite you to sit and linger for a while longer. Patio furniture is also about entertaining, those large family lunches around an outdoor dining table or an intimate coffee for two at a small bistro set. Furniture in a mix of materials like wicker, cast iron, stone and wood pair wonderfully together. Dual purpose pieces are also very on trend.

Lighting: Chandeliers to candles Choice of lighting is important in every room of the house, and the patio is no different.

Light fittings in wicker and other natural materials hit the brief perfectly, yet popular indoor chandeliers and pendants are being used on covered patios too. String lights and candle lanterns set the tone for a memorable casual dining experience outside.

Fire: From the braai to the boma What would a South African patio be without a little fire? No matter the season, a crackling fire somewhere in the vicinity of the room ultimately translates into “the party has started”. From a functional braai and dramatic boma to the popular fire pit – the choice is yours.

Decor: Neutrals vs. bold patterns While the use of neutral, earthy tones on the patio is everywhere, accent colours in green and blue as well as bold patterns and prints are making waves. These are incorporated into scatters, carpets and lamps in stripes, Aztec and tropical. On the tropical note, edible decor such as herbs and mobile cocktail gardens are the ultimate greenery for this space.

WANT THIS LOOK? CONTACT SBL 2019 • I SSUE 5 1 6

GARDENING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

patio perfection

trend alert

www.styledbyleedesigns.com 063 865 8323

17 ISSU E 5 • 2019

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

patio perfection

www.styledbyleedesigns.com 063 865 8323 2019 • I SSUE 5 1 8

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

19 ISSU E 5 • 2019

FOOD & EVENTS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

PUT IT IN YOUR

DIARY Saturday 5 October, SA Gin Festival 2019, Sunday 3 November, Succulents Festival, Ground, Muldersdrift, Pretoria National Botanical Gardens The SA Gin Festival 2019 held together with Schweppes will take place in Muldersdrift and will offer visitors a wide variety of distillers, delectable food and fantastic entertainment for young and old. Children under 18 entering with adults enter free and only adults will receive tasting tokens. VIP tickets include a whole lot of free goodies including a neck or foot massage.

Succer for a succlent? Then this festival is for you. Over 30 plant and accessory stalls will be selling some of the most beautiful and interesting succulents, cacti, airplants, hoya and plant accessories around.

Saturday 2 November, Tshwane Food Fest, Pretoria National Botanical Gardens Thursday 3 October & Saturday 5 October, SA’s Attention all foodies! The Tshwane Food Fest will tantalise Leading Wine Event Is Returning To Pretoria

your tastebuds. Explore various types of cuisines, food and Guests will not only be introduced to the great diversity drink by chefs and food connoisseurs as well as live music of South African wines but also learn about world-class and kids entertainment at this outdoor family event. vintages, various wine varietals, wine-making processes, wine pairings and so much more. This has been proven to be a huge objective for visitors who attend the show and thus education remains the key to this leading wine event.

Saturday 26 October Ginfest Boutique Hotel, Centurion

Kleinkaap

20 Craft Gin Stalls and 8 Craft Food Stalls provided by Kleinkaap Boutique Hotel. Listen to LIVE MUSIC like Neil Somers and MORE while you spend the day in the beautiful gardens.

Remember to bring your chairs and blankets. The General Bar will also be available.

R110.00 per person 2019 • I SSUE 5 2 0

21 ISSU E 5 • 2019

THE ART OF

letting go By

The real cause of the stress in our lives is not our perceived problems, but our mind’s incessant commentary about them. Why is this mental chatter so pervasive, and how do we learn to let it go?

Our inner narration is really just our minds’ way of making us feel more comfortable with and in control of the world around us. If we experience something that doesn’t fit the model of the world as we’d like it to be, we internally verbalise, judge and complain about the disturbance. The mind is always trying to process our experiences in a way that makes them fit neatly into our views of the past and our dreams for the future, and what we end up experiencing is a mental model or presentation of the world, rather than the stark, unfiltered experience of reality itself.

When it comes to managing stress and anxiety, there are few things more important than realising that you are not the voice in your head. You’re able to notice when you are thinking and judge the quality and content of your thoughts, so you must be distinct from them. You are the witness the consciousness that notices the voice talking.

Letting go of inner turmoil involves the conscious (and continuous) remembering of the fact that - no matter what the voice in your head has to say - it is still just a voice talking, and you (the real you!) are the one listening.

Step back and view it objectively. You don’t need to think about or change it - just notice it. Remember 2019 • I SSUE 5 2 2

that you are the subject and your thoughts are the objects. After time you will come to realise that many of them have no relevance to the present moment. They are simply making you feel better or worse about the unfolding of reality. Most of us have become conditioned to leave our centre of objective awareness and get sucked into the energy of our thoughts and emotions at any given moment.

When we concentrate on this mental chatter, it becomes charged with energy and power, growing in importance and demanding even more of our attention. Significant stress can be caused by a passing thought or emotion that somehow becomes the centre of our inner (and eventually outer) worlds.

While you may feel that you wouldn’t struggle with anxiety-provoking mental chatter if you could just change things in the outside world, it’s safe to say that few have become truly at peace by simply rearranging their external circumstances. The mind will always find ‘the next problem’ to focus on.

The real solution is to let go and take the seat of witness consciousness. Come to know yourself as the one who watches the inner voice that is never content. Watch yourself be anxious, without trying to analyse or fix it. Just be aware of what it going on inside, and remember that you are the one noticing both the events and the thoughts and emotions they evoke. When you feel your consciousness start to get drawn into a distressing thought or emotion, practise the art of letting the real you -

the witness - take a step back and relax and release behind it. Relax your shoulders and the space around your heart, letting the disturbance simply come up and pass through you. It takes only a moment of conscious effort, and it will pass.

This simple yet profound practice will get easier over time, and eventually you will spend most of your life comfortably seated in witness consciousness.

Until then, play with the habit of letting go and falling behind the sense of being bothered. Just keep consciously choosing to no longer become involved in the melodrama of the mind.

You will be pulled time and again, and each will be another opportunity to learn to relax and release.

As you begin to find yourself living from this place of letting go, the stuff of the world that once bothered you will cease to be a problem. It will just be something you watch. It will keep changing, while you - the vast awareness behind it all - remain the same.

Support your commitment to the spiritual practice of letting go by nurturing your body and soul with these anxiety-busting self-care rituals from Holistic Health and Wellness Coach Ashleigh Harrison:

Enhance your body’s ability to support you in letting go by nourishing yourself with a wholefoods-based diet. Avoid coffee and alcohol, and add powerful superfoods like maca, camu camu and cacao (if you’re not sensitive to its stimulating effect) as well as adaptogens such as ashwagandha and reishi (if you’re not experiencing autoimmune issues or taking blood thinners).

Find exercise that’s right for you. This can be according to your body type, preference, energy levels or biological rhythms. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and finding exercise that you enjoy is the best way of making sure you move your body regularly to support the flexibility of your mind.

Be on your soul’s side and learn to say no to people and places that don’t serve you.

Take some time out for self-care. This can be anything you enjoy doing, whether it be going for a massage, taking a morning stroll, buying yourself flowers or staying in to apply a face mask and watch your favourite movie.

SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 28 stores nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health.

www.wellnesswarehouse.com

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FUEL YOUR lifestyle Ñ with our superfood bars & blends

• no artificial ingredients • vegan • no refined sugar • gluten-free

SHOP IN STORE & ONLINE 2019 • I SSUE 5 2 4

YOU CAN FIND US AT: Benmore Centre, Brooklyn Centre, Clearwater Mall, The Grove Mall, Woodlands Boulevard, Menlyn Maine, Thrupps Illovo, Parktown Quarter, Village View, Kyalami Corner, Morningside Shopping Centre

WHAT’S NEW BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

What’s new?

Drops of Fynbos

The beauty of spring is so perfect.

Don’t you sometimes wish you could freeze and hold on to it forever? Now you can.

At Daya Heller Art Studio in The Crags, Garden Route these beautiful drops are bringing Nature home. Each handmade drop is wonderfully unique and is the ideal custom interior collection for any home.

An everlasting tribute to nature!

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Custom wallpaper

Custom wallpaper

Plexi art

Pomogranit produces bespoke high quality wall art in the form of mounted canvas, wallpaper, plexi art, blockmount posters, wood and vinyl cut outs and many more creative applications for any home or office environment.

We offer a full turn-key service, from concept to print to installation. All prints are handmade to order therefore we can accommodate any customisation or personal touches you may wish to add to your piece to make it truly unique.

530 Jacqueline Drive, Garsfontein, Pretoria l 012 348 7363 www.pomogranit.co.za l info@pomogranit.co.za 2019 • I SSUE 5 2 6

Surrender to the luxury of slow TAKE A PAUSE. TAKE THE BLUE TRAIN. WHETHER YOU’RE A CORPORATE LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT VENUE OR JUST WANT TO GET AWAY FROM IT ALL. BOOK AT BLUETRAIN.CO.ZA

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PAUSING TIME on The Window to Africa’s Soul Article by KS Publishing

The Blue Train is well-known And so our journey begins… across the world. Its Club, Dining, The Blue Train Lounge at the Cape Town Train Observation and Conference Cars In Station excitement was high as we waited for all have been the pleasure of many a the passengers to arrive from all over the world. we were warmly welcomed by The Blue Train King, President and celebrity over Soon Captain who shared the itinerary of our muchthe past 73 years. An absolute item awaited trip with us. While our luggage was taken to add to your bucket-list if it wasn’t to our cabins, we all enjoyed a celebratory glass of champagne and scrumptious snacks provided on there already.

by The Blue Train Lounge. This also gave us some time to take a few “selfies” with this well-loved The Blue Train is more than just a mode of old- train. school transportation but a wonderful way to sightsee the country. It journeys the 1600 km from Cape Town to Pretoria over a 31-hourperiod, taking the route less travelled. Over and through mountains, truly unlocking the diverse landscapes of Southern African to its passengers.

If this wasn’t incentive enough The Blue Train also offers world-renowned meals, an attentive butler service and modern African chic interiors and mahogany and marble fittings.

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TRAVEL

Our very own personal butler, David, a 26-yearold ambitious young man, escorted us to our cabin. While chatting to him, we learned that he had to undergo an intensive training programme to learn all about the train in addition to mastering the high standard of service one would come to expect from this class of travel.

As we walked through the passageway, I couldn’t help but appreciate how well the train was being looked after. Everything was impeccable. David showed us into our cabin and explained how the television, air conditioning, window blinds and en-suite bathroom (which I must add has goldplated fittings) worked.

BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Grand English High Tea We quickly unpacked and soon after the beautiful sound of the train setting off gave rhythm to the excitement we all felt. My fiancée and myself joined our fellow travellers in The Lounge Car area taking in the diverse group of people from all over the wold while enjoying a Grand English High Tea. This is a ritual served every afternoon at our leisure.

After striking up a conversation with an adventure-seeking elderly couple we learned that they had journeyed to South Africa, explored the Mother City in all her splendour and were now looking forward to their Kruger National Park bushveld experience. We shared some stories of what they could expect and realised how privileged we are as home-grown South Africans with the beauty of both the sea and bush right at our doorstep.

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A feast to remember As evening approached, we followed the joyful sounds of laughter and mystery and made our way to the back of the train (Observation Car).

We were greeted by panoramic views, lovely sundowners and enjoyed the sunset together.

After a few snapshots we made our way back to our cabin to freshen up and get dressed for the second sitting of dinner. We were left in awe to realise that not only did we have a personal butler but also our very own waiter. His name was Tinyuki. He showed us to our table. The ambiance in the room was romantic and classy. Everyone was dressed for the occasion and the food was of the highest standard. A meticulously thought- out menu prepared by the Head Chef Bobby showed that his wealth of culinary expertise comes with years of training and passion for what he does.

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We chose the smoked springbok carpaccio, served with rocket and balsamic berry dressing as our starter followed with a cauliflower and truffle soup. Our main course was absolutely amazing.

A dry aged fillet with veined blue rock cheese dusted with biltong, and a herb reduction sauce.

I have a passion for cooking at home and I have to say I was impressed with the crust on the meat. In culinary circles the crust that forms is called the Maillard Reaction.

And then came the dessert. A sweet treat of a chocolate cigar served with a Sharon compote, finished with sorbet. Delicious!

There is an Afrikaans saying that goes “Magies vol, ogies toe”, which means if your tummy is full your eyes automatically want to close after. With a great evening of relaxed dining behind us we made our way to our cabin to retire.

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Reliving a childhood dream Waking up on a train is something special, it’s like reliving a childhood dream. And just like happy children my fiancée and I made our way to the Dining Car for breakfast. Hungry for the day ahead. From a varied selection we decided to go for an English Breakfast and a good old cup of coffee.

As the train made its way through the Karoo, we enjoyed the company of our fellow travellers, exchanged stories and took in the sights.

A perfectly and wonderfully prepared lunch was served. Soup as a starter, grilled west coast sole served with crushed baby potatoes and finished with a creamy lemon butter sauce as our main, and vanilla panna cotta served with blue berry our luggage was allocated to our cabins on arrival, compote for dessert. it was removed at our departure. Everything was swiftly prepped for the new guests waiting to have A complimentary day excursion a taste of the La Dolce Vita lifestyle.

Our trip brought us to the well-known town of Kimberley for our complimentary day excursion, which as many know sparked the Diamond Rush.

A very knowledgeable Tour Historian shared the history of life back then as we explored the Big Hole. We were also shown how diamonds were mined now vs. then.

Final hours

“To anyone looking to tick off an unforgettable experience make it a point to add. Travelling on The Blue Train is simply one of those must do items.”

Thank you to all The Blue Train staff for their warm acceptance and allowing us to enjoy this As we boarded the train it became evident that our amazing trip as “royalty”. trip on The Blue Train was soon coming to an end and that we would be arriving in Pretoria the next Get in touch with The morning. However, there was still sundowners, Blue Train to reserve your an evening of dress up and a delectable dinner as experience. well as an early morning breakfast that awaited us.

PRETORIA RESERVATION OFFICE Tel: +27 12 334 8459 We enjoyed our last day and tried to savour every CAPE TOWN RESERVATION CENTRE last bit of being treated as royalty. As promptly as Tel: +27 21 449 2672 info@bluetrain.co.za | www.bluetrain.co.za 2019 • I SSUE 5 3 2

TRAVEL BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Imperfectly Perfect Free State born artist Marcia van der Merwe’s passion for painting started early on. She was always busy with something creative and painted anything paintable, which to her is everything.

Images that excited her simply had to be drawn and their stories told. Her work and love for illustration is often conveyed through bright and busy art pieces brimming of colour and happiness. Every piece of art as imperfectly perfect as the next.

special and unique that evokes various emotions with the viewer. Each piece of art has meaning and every person can derive their own meaning from it. To Marcia, emotion is an important subject in every painting.

These days her art is more diverse. Her love for the Free State is overwhelming and the extreme contrasts of seasons are usually portrayed in her passion for painting women, which she always conveyes in a sombre way opposed to the bright and colourful illustrations of her other paintings.

Each of the women’s faces symbolise something

Situated on a farm in the Free State between Koffiefontein and Fauresmith, inspiration always activates creativity and the possibilities are endless. Using oil-based paint in a variety of colours, but usually preferring brighter hues, painting excites her. What excites Marcia the most is that her art spreads joy by creating meaning to 2019 • I SSUE 5 3 4

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

many people all over the world. After working in the jewellery and manufacturing design industry which was her field of study, Marcia is privileged to be a full-time artist for 10 years now. Life is busy with three young children, which means studio time is usually family time too. All of this are puzzle pieces of the painting that’s on her easel.

In a wonderful way, it all gels together effectively.

Sculpting is also a big favourite and she started with pottery recently, creating playful images on each plate, playing with oxides and colours – all in her own unique and recognisable style. Simple

Look at my work, this is me now, I can solemnly state that I eat, breathe and sleep art, I hope that my work can spread joy and create meaning to others, relating it to something within your own frame of reference to make meaning and create your own story. By creating these pieces, I hope to fill holes in people’s lives and I thank you for being part of this puzzle. To me, art is freedom, being able to bend things most people see as a straight line - and getting away with it. brushstrokes in a feast of colour transformed into a burst of creativity! Her love for animals is also recognisable in all of her art forms and usually include a much-loved pet.

“Art is a visual language that individuals from all languages can understand. It is a weird but wonderful way of exciting one’s own mind without having to say a word. I cannot imagine having to put down my paintbrush or sculpting equipment.

As long as I have a visual piece of art to create in order to give others an opportunity to convey a story and a feeling, I will not stop creating,” Marcia says.

if you would like to own a piece of her work in your home contact 083 411 7550 35 ISSU E 5 • 2019

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Wind down in the world’s top vacation destinations

Where will you spend the school holidays?

Choose from biking in the French countryside, discovering Santorini, experiencing the magic of Mauritius and much more.

Not keen on an overseas respite? Local is lekker!

little minds ready to soak up the sun and feel the sand between their toes.

Why not try a different form of education? More than the excitement of catching a flight and seeing the world from the skies, travel means exposure to new cultures, new languages, different cuisines and unforgettable memories.

Discover the French Get up close and personal wine country while your with the Big 5, experience bambinos frolic in one of the most picturesque a bush kitchen and bask countrysides in the world, in a breath-taking African or head to New York for a sunset. white Christmas bar none.

How about checking out School holidays mean where Game of Thrones happy faces and eager

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found greeting-cardworthy backdrops in Croatia, or sipping on Sangria in Spain?

Whatever your inclination, Travelstart has a dedicated group of experts waiting to curate your dream trip and start you off on the adventure of a lifetime.

Want to show your kids how gorgeous South Africa is? Travelstart has you covered! How about a luxury safari adventure or discovering life in the bush? Let us help you step into the bush kitchen and settle down to meals below a pink, purple and orange sky. Watch your

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Travelstart Says…

Say yes to new adventures! little ones get up close and personal with the iconic Big 5 and get their hands dirty as they learn to love Mother Nature in all her splendour.

That’s Not All…

Download the Travelstart flight booking app, Flapp, and get exclusive For those looking to catch vouchers and discounted a piece of paradise, beach travel deals! and reef is where it’s at!

Simply visit Google Play Choose from magical Store or the App Store, Mauritius, Bali, Seychelles search for Flapp, click and the Maldives to download, and voila! You name but a few. Santorini can now book flights, sunsets are also always in manage bookings, and season! If you’re wanting even check in online! to book a spell closer to home, head to Zanzibar Have a discount on for sea and sun on an us! Get up to R550 in island of clove goodness.

Flying internationally during October/November 2019? Book via Flapp and take R400 off your next international flight! Use code: KSTUDIO400 to qualify.

Contact Travelstart Live to book your dream getaway Phone: (021) 020 0559 Email: live@travelstart. com or packages@ travelstart.com Happy Travels!

travel vouchers!

The Travelstart Live team is here to help you fashion a family-friendly, hassle-free holiday that you and your children will remember for years.

Flying local during October/November 2019?

Book via Flapp and take R150 off your next domestic flight! Use code: KSTUDIO150 to qualify.

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LIFESTYLE BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Residential Energy Savings credit: www.lutron.com

When it comes to energy efficiency, there are plenty of options. However, many homeowners overlook a key energy-saving opportunity – lighting.

It accounts for almost 20% of the average homeowner’s monthly electric bill.

Lutron lighting controls can help increase energy savings throughout your home, help the environment and beautify your home in one go.

Lutron dimmers and lighting control systems let you use just the right amount of light, reducing electricity usage and extending bulb life.

With eco-home products from Lutron, you can save energy without sacrificing comfort or style. Our whole-home light control systems extend energy saving throughout the home and our advanced technology allows you to control the latest energyefficient light sources, such as LEDs and fluorescent lamps. Shading solutions help optimise daylight by 2019 • I SSUE 5 3 8

reducing heating and cooling costs and making the space more comfortable.

The perfect complement to lighting and shading control, is temperature control. It gives you the ability to adjust heating and cooling systems any time of day—even while you’re away from home, saving on your energy usage. Lutron also offers a variety of single room solutions to further increase your home’s energy efficiency.

Smart Solutions for Every Home As a leader in the fast-growing smart home market, Lutron provides the perfect solution for any size home, and any budget, whether you’re building a new home or want to upgrade your existing one.

LIFESTYLE

Get Connected Lutron works with more smart home devices than any other smart lighting control brand.

BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

It Just Works With over 1,000 dimmable bulbs, regular bulbs can now be made smart, starting with control at the switch.

Exceptional Aesthetics Complement interior décor with sophisticated, intuitive controls, and create the perfect scene with a single button press.

Keypads are available in a variety of styles and finishes and customisable to fit your needs.

Smart Living Your lighting can be set to automatically switch on or off when you come or go. You can also control lights, shades, and temperature when you are away - around the block or around the world— so you can always keep an eye on your home.

The Power of Voice Set the perfect atmosphere or activate lighting that is perfect for the task at hand - Imagine this: Lights come on, shades open and your favorite playlist echoes in the background - all at your Command Colour, Style & Fabrics Lutron wallplates, dimmers, controls, and automated window treatments come in a variety of colours, styles, and fabrics to coordinate with your home’s aesthetic appearance. With options ranging from traditional to contemporary, Lutron has a look that complements the design of your space.

Residential Applications: Lutron’s automated lighting and shade control solutions enhance your lifestyle, improve comfort, and add convenience. Plus, you can control any of our systems from your mobile device, from wherever you are. Our solutions are ideal for any type of home, including single family homes, condos, and townhouses.

For more info Contact

Johan Tel: + 27 (0) 76 540 0393 Email: johan@automationauthority.co.za Juan Tel: + 27 (0) 82 308 0809 Email: juan@automationauthority.co.za 39 ISSU E 5 • 2019

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

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