30th August 2022, Namibia

Somewhere in the middle of nowhere, that is where we have been for the last 10 days. At least, it is a pretty accurate description of how we have felt on long dusty roads and at our peacefully deserted campsites, hidden in the bush, where campfires and a shovel are among our best friends!
Living of grid, away from "civilization" is what we consciously have signed up for when we opted for a 4 month self drive through Southern Africa. For some, living off grid could well mean stress, discomfort and a sense of feeling lost. We happily draw the conclusion that all four of us cope and adjust well in situations of simplicity. For sure, it takes time to adjust and it certainly is not a process without ups and downs, but for now, a form of tranquility has come over "thedoncksonthego", adjusting all in our own way to life as a family on the road.
Here (Namibia), there is nothing, and yet so much.! The sounds of birds, the rustling of bushes and the sound of flowing water. Icy cold water from showers to dip under for a wash at the end of the day, the hot sand under your feet, the warmth of a campfire, and the smell of smoke in the air and on your favorite sweater. The ever changing landscapes with every shade of yellow and brown, which turn not gold and purple when that ball of lava has had enough of burning on us for the day, before returning the next morning with a vengeance. Sandy trails turning into rocky 4x4 climb, flats changing into ravines and riverbed crossings. Four pairs of eyes stare into the distance, taking in the feeling and the constant changing of colors and views, until and animal is spotted, causing pupils to widen and adrenaline levels shooting up.
South Africa was pretty and turned out more arid as we drove North. The Namaqua 4x4 trail is not what many tourists do but is a must in our view. Now after 3 days in namibia, vastness and landscape gets a new meaning. I am writing this as Remke drives the 330 odd km from Keetmasnhoop to Luderitz. This morning I took an hour to photograph the quiver trees and now I am looking at the dry grass waving gracefully over the plains as far as my eyes can see.
We have only just begun but is magically beautiful here and we, as a family are magically at peace and humble that we have the time to experience it together.
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