Book: The Book of Joy, Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu and Douglas Abrams

In my mission to complete #40for40 things this year, I broke it down into different categories; ten activities I've never done, ten places I've never been to; ten people to meet and ten books to read. I put a call out on Facebook for suggestions, recommendations and challenges. Someone said that I should meet the Dalai Lama [why not!]. My lovely neighbour, Shona,  then suggested meeting Archbishop Desmond Tutu (that would be incredible!). Then the next thing I knew, Tim and Shona (said lovely neighbours) brought over "The Book of Joy", recently co authored by both the Dalai Lama and the Archbishop! 

What a wonderful read; I have such deep respect for both of these leaders and their worldviews. The book is written in such a way that you it feels as if you form part of the conversation. [I love the fact that it was authored and put together by someone from the Jewish faith.] 

The crux of joy, which is a lot more than happiness, is about helping each other, being compassionate, education and laughing more, even (especially) if it is at ourselves.

Race: Nutribullet Bay2Bay, 15kms

The first race of the year. I definitely was not fit enough for the 30kms this year and opted for the 15kms. Still my absolute favourite route in the world!

Book: Treasure Island

What an adventure! This year is about getting up to speed with classics, such as "Treasure Island". This specific book has been in our family library for years, I see it was published in 1950. As they say in the intro, the purpose of this version was not to 'edit' or revise' the Stevenson classic. Rather, to recapture the dramatic form of the screen pay [hence it indicates Walt Disney on the spine]. 

It was absolutely wonderful to 'meet' Jim Hawkins and Long John Silver, and reading about the betrayals and adventure of finding hidden treasure!

Restaurant: Atlantic Express Restaurant, Sea Point

I've often walked past the old train coach along Regent Street in Sea Point and never got as far as going in. When the team were in Cape Town and staying in Sea Point earlier this year, I thought it a perfect opportunity to 'suss' it out as it was also walking distance from where the team were staying.

What a quaint, charming restaurant. There were seven of us and we were seated in two compartments adjacent to each other. The food was delicious; we were treated to a few tasters before ordering. The portions were also quite generous. They make all the Halaal food for the Protea Fire & Ice. 

The only thing is that I am not a fan of garlic and there was A LOT in my prawn curry, with that said, it was incredibly delicious. 

Restaurant: Byblos Trading

In between a busy afternoon of meetings, I came across this gem in Woodstock. It was a grey wet afternoon, and the aroma of coffee and brilliant smile from the Barrister most inviting and warming. As much as I love coffee, I avoid it in the afternoon, so opted for a pot of black tea and tried one of their date delicacies. I'll definitely go back and try their Turkish Delight next time. They also have an outlet in Sea Point.