The river runs through us all

I type my destination into my cellphone in a mall parking lot somewhere in Joburg. “On your way to Groot-Marico, traffic is light, as usual,” says the GPS voice – exactly what you want to hear if you’re looking for a few days of rest and relaxation!

I worm my way out of the city as the reassuring voice directs me past Krugersdorp, through Muldersdrift and past Magaliesburg. Eventually the road (now the R509) becomes quieter as it makes its way past Syferbult, Boons, Derby and Koster. The Magaliesberg stays on my right; to my left are the characteristic undulations of the North West, blanketed with mielies and sunflowers. It’s mid-May but some of the sunflowers still turn their yellow faces towards the sun.

Finally I reach the N4, turn west, drive through Swartruggens, pay R75 at the toll gate (they should really throw in a koeksister and coffee for that price) and arrive in Groot-Marico. I drive through town and