Cake, tea and a brand new book

Cakes, tea, art, flowers, laughter, faith, books, hugs, kisses, wrinkles and smiles all gathered at a rainy Palm Dunes Lodge in Blythedale last Thursday.

These fun mornings are organised on a monthly basis by the local interdenominational Bible study group for those who sometimes feel forgotten.

Maryna van der Merwe is one of these busy ladies who helps with the fundraisers.

“The Bible study group ladies meet regularly and come from all corners of Blythedale. We host these get-togethers to entertain the senior members of the Blythedale community and to make them feel special. We encourage all people over the age of 65 in the area to join in the fun,” said Van der Merwe.

She said the money they raise is put together for the end of the year Christmas party.

“We buy Checkers vouchers or presents for each of our pensioners and have a party for them, so that they are not alone during the festive season,” she said.

Ora Klopper is also part of the club and was thrilled to introduce the guest of honour, who was a former Dolphin Coast resident.

“We know how much Helana Olivier’s books mean to our darling oldies, so having her here is a great treat,” said Klopper, who also had her quirky art on display.

Olivier is known for her inspiring Christian lifestyle books and has recently added a new one to the list called “Flentermens word Heelmens,” which loosely translates into “A broken soul is healed”.

The author and friend to many at the fundraiser, said the book is about different forms of loss people experience and how to deal with it.

“People often only think of death when it comes to dealing with loss. Loss is also children emigrating and leaving their parents behind or having a child with an incurable illness,” she said.

After an inspiring, open talk, Olivier lovingly signed the ladies’ books and then joined them for a cup of tea and a feast of homemade treats.