Post 2 Build it Journey

BLOG POST 2

After a restful night’s sleep we awoke in time to see our host’s children depart for school and after a quick cuppa we entered the rush hour fray to get to our first destination for the day which was Southgate Build-It at the mall. Our contact there was not available so we hit the road again and drove to Edendale Build-It with my GPS giving me a few heart-thumping nervous moments. Amazingly on the way we glimpsed several cows and goats on the road side juxtaposed with residential properties reminding us that we were inland and moving slowly into farming territory far away from Durban. We squeezed into the carpark and I met Mandla the manager who was extremely helpful and enthusiastic as the owner was temporarily busy. The meeting went fine and although quick was a success. Thereafter we returned to Southgate Build-It to meet the owner Domingos who was not able to give us much time but I met the delightful Palashnee who chatted with me although due to a lack of wi-fi we were unable to get into their listing.

Our next stop was the Build-It in the scenic Midlands town of Hilton where there has been a lot of property development during the past two decades. Greg assumed his normal position with pamphlets and I proceeded into a serious meeting with Graham the genial owner. We had a great cup of delicious coffee in their nursery attached to the back of the store which is well worth a visit.  I was also lucky enough to meet with Graham’s two partner’s Andrew and Blake who could not have been more friendly and accommodating. A special thanks to Graham who spent over two hours chatting to me and helping me to understand Build It’s business better and also strategizing how I can get optimum value from my visit to all the stores.

On completion I decided that I would cycle to Howick our next port of call to try and maintain my fitness levels as I had not cycled the day before because of spitting rain and a cold wind. Yes I know I am getting soft as old age approaches me at a rapid rate. Greg drove along the N3 and I took the scenic route along the Cedara Road and we met up at the magnificent Howick Falls before proceeding on to Howick Build-It to meet with the unbelievably friendly Giuseppe who also kindly planted an Energade in my hand to help me with my thirst after my pleasant cycle. It was a great visit and thank you Giuseppe for being so patient as we battled to log in – but we finally succeeded J

As the inland afternoon chill started to bite and with the sun starting to go down I cycled with Greg driving to stay the night with my charming relatives the Clarks in their very warm and comfy home once again benefitting from a great home-cooked meal. We had an early night and slept under many blankets and duvets!