valley of fair fairies
reefs for playful Thor
rivers wrapping water nymphs
heavens of my God
oceans for mystic mermaids
farmlands spun of gold
forests of green pine trees
angel songs and doves
fruit on meadow's platters
for my deep hunger .... peace
Author notes
My greatgrandfather and my grandfather, my mother and her brothers, farmed on neighbouring farms at Ruiterbosch, in the district of Mossel Bay, in the region called EDEN, Western Cape, SOUTH AFRICA. My grandfather J.J.O. Beneke, named this little valley RUITERBOSCH, after he secretively gave water to the Boer soldiers and their horses during the Anglo Boer War, 1899 to 1902.
This is the place where I saw real fairies; where I dreamt, and still dream, with open eyes. Whenever I feel down and overcome by the sorrow of this world, I go there. This is also where I wish my body to rest, in the family graveyard, at Glenheath, the original family farm.
From the webpage of Ruiterbosch Gallery and Guest House the following information:
"The Ruiterbosch valley is centrally located in the foothills of the Outeniqua mountains. When one drives on the R328 from Oudtshoorn, and descends the Robertson Pass, even the most jaded traveler is surprised at the sudden change in scenery and climate.
The hot and dry Karoo has been replaced by beautiful forest shrouded in mist with the Indian Ocean glittering in the distance. Most motorist accelerate at this point to reach Mossel Bay, scarcely 35 km away. The less hasty will, however, stop at either the nearby hotel or at the newly opened Ruiterbosch Gallery and Guest House for refreshments or to just sit back and admire one of the most scenic spots on earth.
The owners of Ruiterbosch Gallery and Guest House, Martha and Ernest Collett have both traveled widely (over 45 countries) and were living in exotic India when, during a holiday in South Africa, they stumbled on this beautiful valley and found an old Cape Dutch farm-stead and stables that has been converted to a gallery and guest house."
Photo: 2008 Myra Lochner -- Ruiterbosch, District Mossel Bay, Region EDEN, Western Cape, South Africa.
A contest entry
- Quickie-Prompt-10 x 10 lines-An hour to write....on..... by Cannonsfire.
1750 points, ended July 15, 2008, 9 entries
Silver trophy winner
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Comments
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I have been in africa this sunday afternoon...
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Beautiful and serene and the picture is glorious Love, C
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Thank you so much for the Silver ...
and for finding my entry serene ... To me this is the most serene place in the entire world. But, I must say, my world is small.
I had serious connection problems and almost did not make your deadline. LOL I think you saw the entry before I was done.
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