Aunty Dolly

Saturday July 24, 2011 was overcast and it was raining but it was certainly a day to remember.

It was the day that Helena and Grant were going to meet Helena's Aunty Dolly and other members of her Dutch family. Uncle Ben (her fathers brother) and Aunty Dolly used to send Helena and sister Trudi little Christmas parcels when younger and still living with their father. She would speak to them on the phone and Helena had always wanted to meet her.

Arriving mid-morning, we were greeted at the door by Tim and young son Maurits and then Helena saw her Aunty Dolly for the first time.

Aunty Dolly & our first hug

It was really special and after a hug or two..... met cousin Marie-Jose and Tims' wife Frederique. As expected, there were many tears and lots of hugs before Helena and her precious Aunty Dolly sat on the sofa and shared photos and memories before enjoying coffee and home made apple cake, which was fabulous.

Tim, Frederique and Maurits

A special family moment and he loved being tickled

  

Aunty Dolly and daughter Marie-Jose

 Later, we followed Tim, Frederique and baby Maurits to their home, where we joined them for a drive through a beautiful area which was rich with trees and plants and one which is about 1 metre under the sea level. Tim explained the area to us and pointed out the place where he and Frederique were married in May.

Marie-Jose and grandson Maurits

A gorgeous little boy

The weather was ghastly - cold, windy and raining but it didn't take away the enjoyment we all had sharing lunch together at Rapa Nui which is at Zandvoort on the coast before returning to Tims home.

Farewell cousin Marie-Jose

We returned to Dollys' home to say goodbye and enjoyed her company as we watched the end of the 'Tour de France' and the celebration that took place as the Australian Cadell Evans was confirmed the winner. It was a great effort and a great way for us to end the day. 

Goodbye Aunty Dolly - you're the best

     
It was a day of tears and laughter, of hugs and more hugs and promises to keep in touch. It was a day of emotion and one that we will never forget.