What a wonderful group of children and care-givers! When we first met the people at Thokomala orphanage, to arrange a meal for them all, our family decided that we would extend it into a Christmas party.



Our family and friends came together, purchased gifts for each person and prepared the Turkey Biryani. On the way to the Valley of a Thousand Hills, we stopped at the Mushroom farm and collected a Christmas tree.

Arthie had already bought the tree decorations and lights. It was really fun to watch as the youngsters decorated the tree.

At the orphanage, the boys beds had been removed and the entire communal sleeping area, had been turned into a party/ dining and dancy hall. An overloaded music system, operated by an excited young boy, was thumping out kwaito music.


It is amazing that most of what you see at Thokomala, has been donated by the Macquet family from Kloof. Proper dorms are going up and there is a wonderful jungle gym, on site. Our little venture into the valley was tiny by comparison. (Roger and his wife, fund at least two orphanages and I am sure can do with a little help. Email me for his contact details)

It is always important to ensure that our children learn to give at an early age. And for that reason our youngsters gave the gifts to the youngsters. In the following photo, my oldest son Lliam - 5, hands over a present, using two hands - as is correct, in the Zulu culture. He managed to mix up the occasion, and wished everybody "Happy birthday and enjoy your Christmas." Standing next in line to hand out a gift is his 7 year old cousin, Ashiel.And behind in his aunty's arms is our 5 month old - Kailash.



In the next picture, Karen and Bhanu serve food to a line of children. The youngsters, from the home, were joined by many others from the local community.

Here the audience, sits and watches the dancing and singing exhibition.

And finally, here is a look into the girls' communal dorm. Which is also shared by the lady care-givers. The girls are in a need of a TV, as the only set is in the boys' quarters.