Lately, the word wilderness keeps popping up everywhere I turn. It’s like the universe is whispering, “Go outside already.” And honestly, I’m starting to believe it’s no coincidence.

So, this past weekend, destination; my catch and release place, the mountains. First hike of the year, and wow it felt like nature had been holding a seat for me all along. There’s something magical about that first step onto the trail, like pressing refresh on your soul.

The excitement wasn’t just mine. My fellow hikers were buzzing too, first reunion of the new year, so there was plenty of catching up, laughter, and the kind of conversations that only happen when you’re slightly out of breath but completely in the moment. They say the simple, free things bring the most joy, and every time I put my hiking boots on, I’m reminded that it’s true.

This year, my theme is kindness specifically, being kind to myself. Forget the endless to do lists and the pressure to hustle harder. Nothing matters more than health, body, mind, and soul. And the wilderness? That’s my fuel station. Out there, I remember that I’m Airforce 1 cruising at altitude, powered by fresh air and perspective. 😊

Van Gaalen was the trail of choice, ten kilometres of easy terrain, perfect for a catch and release kind of day. The goal wasn’t to conquer mountains but to connect with nature, with friends, and with myself, and we did just that. Between the crunch of gravel underfoot and the conversation of friends exchanging stories, the hike became less about distance and more about presence.

There’s a funny thing about hiking: you start out thinking it’s about exercise, but somewhere along the way, it becomes therapy. The trees don’t judge, the mountains don’t rush you, and the sky doesn’t care if your hair is a mess. It’s the ultimate safe space.

By the time we wrapped up, I felt lighter, not just physically (though yes, 10km does wonders), but mentally. The wilderness had done its job; revived the spirit, reset the mood, and reminded me that joy doesn’t come from grand gestures. It comes from moments like these; waking up healthy, moving freely, laughing with friends, and realizing you don’t need much more than that.

So, here’s to the wilderness, my catch and release place. Here’s to hikes that feel like homecomings. And here’s to being kind to ourselves, one trail at a time. Someone ones said: ‘As long as your body is healthy; you have thousands of problems, but the moment your body get sick, you have one problem.’❤️

Because at the end of the day, the wilderness isn’t just out there. It’s also within us waiting to be rediscovered, one step, one laugh, one breath at a time.

Until next time Fabtastic people

Moira- Airforce 1

 The Wedding Feast That Could Feed a Nation
Just like that, we’re at the end of the year and wow, what a ride. My latest adventure took me back to the Eastern Cape, where I attended a traditional Xhosa wedding in Ngcobo.

Now let me tell you, growing up as South Sotho, we were always told the Xhosa people love their meat. But Fabtastic people, I thought they meant like normal humans love meat. Nope. They mean Guinness World Record, “is that a cow or a starter?” kind of love.

I decided to ditch my Sotho attire and go full Xhosa glam, colourful, regal, and honestly, I looked like a Xhosa Queen who just discovered her royal roots. The vibe was electric, the outfits were dazzling, and the food… well, let’s just say I became a vegetarian for three days afterward, purely out of seeing so much meat, beef, pork, chicken, lamb.

Picture this, the starter was braai meat. Haibo! I was expecting maybe a salad or soup, but nope straight to the protein. Everywhere I turned, there was meat. I low key expected the DJ to announce: “Ladies and gentlemen, please proceed to the beef section for your next dance.” 😂Jokes aside, it was stunning. The culture, the outfits, the joy, the music, the laughter, unforgettable.

 From Meat Sweats to Mountain Steps
After surviving the Great Meat Marathon of Ngcobo, I figured my body deserved a detox. Enter: hiking. My amigos and I hit Cradle Moon for a quick 10km hike, my version of “catch and release” therapy. I have not seen my amigos in a long time, so it was lovely to catch up and laugh. Patricia, the ticket line is long gurl, get on the queue. LOL

The weather was perfect, cloudy, cool, basically the spa treatment of hiking conditions. Cradle Moon is one of those places that’s so well-kept. It’s a trail that’s big on conservation, memories, and reminding you that not all classrooms have four walls. Sometimes the best lessons are learned while dodging tree roots and forgetting about the “real” world.

 And when you’re done, you get to enjoy their burger at the gorgeous restaurant overlooking water that make you forget you ever swore off meat. Yes, I know. Full circle. Don’t judge me.

Whether it’s being crowned a temporary Xhosa Queen or conquering a trail with friends, I’m grateful for every experience. Travel, culture, hiking, they’ve all been my teachers this year.  If 2025 taught me anything, it’s that joy can be found in both a plate piled high with meat and a trail that leads you back to yourself.

Thank you for the support! Here is to 2026.

Until next time Fabtastic People!

Moira