Living My Dream – Shattered!!! – Update
This a quick blog to tell you all that due to personal reasons, that I wont mention on this blog…I have come to the end of my stay in Kruger! I left Orpen gate just after 3pm this afternoon and had a very stressfull 8hr drive to Pretoria. I want to thank the family at Orpen who helped me packed up in less than an hour…sorry dont know your names…but thank you so much!
I want to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you for reading the blog, for allowing me to show you Kruger, for allowing me into your hearts and homes…but this is the end…with tears streaming down my face and the uncertainty of what awaits me…I have to go..I will be flying out to Doha soon and must apologize to those I was suppose to meet, those who looked forward to it…and I truly am sorry that we have done this to you!
I also want to thank the many wonderfull friends i have met during my time…you will always be on my mind! And with that I once again thank you all!
Tomorrow I have to sort out this mess we left in the caravan with just throwing everything inside..and if any one of you are interested in buying this van..please contact me on my email address in the next day….stayinginkruger4-1year@hotmail.com So let it be what it wants to be! Truly hope I can carry on with my life and be one again!
Regards,
Martie
Monday, January 25, 2010
Thank you all for your prayers, concerns and kind words and comments! Unfortunately I cant reply to all the emails I have received, and as most of you are very worried, just to let you know that I am flying out to Doha tonight and will talk to you again sometime….
Martie
Like
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:32 am
Hi Martie,
Really sorry to hear it had to end this way !!! Hope everything is ok with you and your’s
I’m sure you let us know what had happend to you when you’re ready!!
All the best and thanks for everything,hou contact, Thomas
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:36 am
Hi Martie, I have been waiting and reading all the forums, but I had the feeling that something was wrong with you!!! I hope it’s not too serious and I hope you did’nt get to lonely at Maroela, and please don’t feel bad – you have really been a star of note!!! I could never have done what you have done at your age and i’m now 61!!!! Please don’t lose contact, I really would like to communicat with you!!! God Bless you and keep you strong!!!! Lot’s of love, Sally (that’s my name)!!!!! p.s. Whatever you do, do not think that you have failed, please!!!!!!!! because you have not!!!!!!
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:43 am
Hi Martie,
Agree with Duffy !!!
No, don’t think you have failed at all.
You gave us lots of great pix and stories for so many months and you did it all by yourself.
Great job, Hope everything is fine with you,baaie dankie, Trekboer Thomas,Vancouver
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:57 am
hi martie
so sorry to hear you will be leaving us.just like to add what has already been said you have been an absolute star and would like to thank you from the bottom of hearts for sharing you adventure with us.hope you get things sorted out bye hopefully just for now stu & toni
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:58 am
Sorry to hear this. Was waiting to be first today. We will miss all your pixs & stories. Groetnis en sterkte. Malan van Zyl, New Zealand
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:23 am
Hi Martie,
It was a wonderful journey you have taken us on. You will be missed. Thank you for sharing part of your life with us, it truly was an adventure you can be proud off. For whatever reason you had to leave I pray that you are safe and ok. Alles van die beste en sterkte.
Rita
Johannesburg
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:39 am
Martie , whatever has happened, I hope that it is not too difficult for you to cope with. We have had ana amazing time with you since last year, and really, it is only a few weeks early that you have had to leave.
Thoughts and prayers are with you.
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:10 am
A dream never ends. You have given everyone of us inspiration and given wings to our dreams. You need to know that your dreams are still flying with many of us. If I can help with anything, send PM. I sure wish we had found you at Skuk last August while we were there. My hope is that you and your family are safe. Kruger is still there and will be. You have what we have dreamed.
January 23rd, 2010 at 4:07 am
Hi Martie,
I am terribly sorry for whatever has happened! I went to bed early last night with a headache, was up early this morning, and opened the blog even before I made myself a cup of coffee. I could not believe what I saw. Thanks for the blog with all the beautiful pictures. We surely will miss you and the blog. You are in our prayers and we hope you are safe. We are living in Pretoria, and if there is anything we can do for you, please let us know. You have our cell numbers on your e-mail. Kind regards, and everything of the best.
Barry & Hilda
January 23rd, 2010 at 5:36 am
Hi Martie
Whatever happened to make you leave in such a hurry, must be very bad because you came across as a strong strong person and I know you would not leave for a small thing – I am very sorry that it happened like this.
Your story has been told by me to many of my friends and we all admire you greatly!!
Will keep you and your family in our prayers – Please let us know when all is sorted out that you are okay.
JJ
January 23rd, 2010 at 5:42 am
Praying for you, Martie. Hope you can connect today with friends who can hold you and comfort you and stand with you in your distress until you can get to your family. Please let all of us who love and respect and value you know when you feel OK again. You have become a special friend to so many and we care about you.
Joyful
January 23rd, 2010 at 5:49 am
Hi Martie
Thinking of you and trust that all will work out for the best.
God Bless
January 23rd, 2010 at 5:53 am
Hi Martie
Jammer om om te hoor dat jy ons moet verlaat. Dit is vir my net so teleurstellend as vir jou. Wees sterk ons sal jou in ons gebede opdra.
Sterkte vir jou en jou familie. Ek sal graag kontak met jou wil hou. We salute you as the QUEEN of the Kruger.
January 23rd, 2010 at 6:15 am
Oh Martie I am so sad – Be strong and remember the utter joy you have given all of us – God be with you.
Ann
January 23rd, 2010 at 6:37 am
Hi Martie,
What a pity! Hope you had a safe drive to Pretoria.
Life’s disappointments leave us stronger & wiser, that is why they cross our paths.
God never gives us a burden larger to carry than He knows we will be able to cope with. Trust in Him & rely on Him to deliver you from what ever your crisis is. I’m sure that some day in the future you eill look back and say: “I’m wiser & richer for having encountered that situation”!
As far as writing your story is concerned, I agthered from Engel’s publishings that he has a good command of the english language and has a fair story writing flare – try him
Cheers for now & God bless!!
ALAN
January 23rd, 2010 at 6:42 am
Hi Martie,
Thank you for sharing 265 days of your dream with us. Be sure that in countless countries around the world people are thinking of you and hoping you’re OK.
All the best,
George (@Hong Kong)
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:12 am
Dear Martie,
So sorry to hear of your misfortune. You have become part of our lives and we will all miss you terribly. I hope you can sort out your problems and come back to Kruger some time in the future. It must have been very bad news to have left so suddenly, butI am sure you can sort out whatever it is. You are a strong lady, and quite capable to solving any problem. Thank you for the many days of interesting news, and the beautiful pics that we have all been privileged to see, and I hope that you put all of your experiences in a book one day. Good Luck, and all the best!
Jean from Pretoria
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:13 am
Hi Martie, Shocked and saddened to hear how you dream has come to an end, travel safe and hope all works out well. Will miss your blogs everyday, but thank you for all that we have enjoyed. Take care Bev
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:16 am
Hi Martie
We are so sorry !!!! A MILLION THANKS for all the precious Moments we could share with you living your dream.
Hope that everything will be OK.You are in our prayers.Please set our minds at ease when the problem is solved.
Take good care.
Regards
Hennie & Soekie (Bothaville)
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:23 am
Hi Martie
Yes, what can we say? Today we all are sad, not just because your dream is shatterd and we won’t have Kruger through your eyes anymore. We are sad for you as a person, a close friend, you became to so many people all over the world .
You are a strong woman and whatever this mountain in your path is, with God’s grace and all our prayers you will conquer this nightmare.
Thank you for sharing your dream with us during the past couple of months. You are an amazing woman who made a difference by your golden footprints in our hearts and in Kruger!
Be strong and God bless!
Pumba (Benoni)
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:23 am
Hi Martie
Thanks for living your dream and sharing it with us.
It’s OK that you have left Kruger, you are doing the right thing!
Wish I could have done more yesterday to help.
Remember I’m here if you need anything until you leave or even after that.
I’m praying that everything will work out, God is still in control!
Thanks for everything…!
Annette
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:43 am
Hi Martie
As we have been with you for so long we thank you for your blog and thoughts and prayers are with you in whatever it is that has caused you to depart in such haste.
God Bless
Take Care
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:45 am
Morning my friend,
What sad news. It must be devastating to your heart and sole. When I saw the news it felt like somebody has ripped my heart from my chest, you have become a very special friend to Mari and I. No more calls on a Friday:” Hey, are we braaing tonight? Can we bring you something?” No more late night chats and banter around a camp fire. There is an empty space in Kruger that nobody else can fill. You will be dearly missed by all. Please stay in contact and remember, time is a great healer. I know it is not something you want to hear now, but things do get better and you will emerge an even stronger person.
Until we meet again.
PLEASE stay in contact.
Neels and Mari
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:52 am
Liewe Martie
Whatever your problem may be, remember I am praying for you. Don’t carry your burden alone, because David said:“ The angel of the Lord encamps around those that fear him!”
Sterkte,
Friedrich von Hörsten, Somerset West
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:01 am
Martie,
I am so sorry to hear that you had to leave.
I pray that whatever you are going through God will give you strength and you will overcome.
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us.
Jo
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:16 am
Martie-
Sorry you had to cut your dream short- but it has been a hell of a ride! I hope all works out well for you for whatever reason you have to leave your dream a bit early.
You have provided us so much entertainment with your stories and wonderful pictures. Of course it will be missed.
It was such a pleasure to have met you in the first week of September during my first trip to KNP at Skukusa! I can never thank you enough for having me over for a wonderful dinner. I will remember it as much for the great meal as the chat with such a KNP enthusiast.
Oh what a dream it has been!
Thanks so much and best of luck in your life!
AJ
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:23 am
Hi Martie
My heart sunk!!
We will miss u, but thinking of u and hope just the best for u, you have bought so many people joy on a daily basis.
Thank you for all u did.
Take care
Louise
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:27 am
Hi Martie
We could also sense something was a miss over the last week or two. Thank you for giving up so much and sharing with us our special place, Kruger that we all love and long for.
What ever the situation, time will heal the pain. Travel safely and when you ready post a blog even if only to say Hi.
Cheers, Glen Debbie, Tamryn and Teagan
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:32 am
Hi Martie,
you have not only lived your dream but lived many of our dreams for us. I haven’t really comment, but followed your blog every day, and it was always a reminder of what I’d really like to day, the balance I’d like to keep in my live. I live only an hour’s drive from the kruger, didn’t go al that often, until you inspired me to do so. since i’ve been going more often, just actually doing what i want to, getting the peace & quiet i need every so often, a lot of things have changed in my live for the better, even if it was just my perspective that was altered.
It is not only the actual magic of the kruger, but even more so your courage to ‘just do it’ that inspired me – you’re like our own forest gump!
you did live your dream, live just has a new phase installed for you now… but what is so much more you truly changed a lot of people’s lives in a wonderful way… and obviously the cumulative effect of your one brave dead to just embark onto your heart’s course will never be known, but it certainly will be great, as it already has achieved so much in just my live.
you truly should feel contented and happy about your stay, you are an inspiration.
good luck with whatever lies ahead now, but I’m sure if you just follow your gut again it will work out for the best, now that you are so much stronger you ought to be presented with much more challenging challenges.
It was great reading your blog, and I’m just gonna start from the beginning now again as I always do with all of my favorite writers (you might not have the perfect handle on spelling and grammar (but that is what copy-editors are for) - but your stories is what made you a great writer, and the simple fact that you got a big following – you REALLY should go for that book, you have it in you, and I really think you should give it the chance to be… you cannot begin to imagine how many people you will reach, give hope to and inspire to new heights.)
All the best!
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:33 am
Dear Martie,
Wow, what a schocker when I opened the blog this morning. I have read your blog for some time now, but never replied to any of it – just enjoyed reading other’s comments. I do however want to let you know, that I have truly been blessed by your pictures and your comments every day and you will be sorely missed. Thank you for being a blessing to so many of us and I pray that you and your family will get through whatever crisis it is that you are going through. Hope this wont be the last we hear from you.
Valerie from Nelspruit
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:38 am
All I can say is that we will miss you dearly. GOD bless. Have a safe journey home.
All our LOVE.
Swanie, Elize and all the kids
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:41 am
Hi Martie
Just read you are leaving KNP
Thinking of you and hope all work out well
Love
Lorraine & David….Canberra Australia
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:57 am
Hi Martie
So sorry to read the sad news – I can only imagine how you must be feeling. I agree with everything that has already been said. I’ve been an avid reader of your blog – it has been amazing, some of the best pictures ever! Its been a privilege sharing your experiences, which I thank you for, from the bottom of my heart. I had hoped to meet up with you in March – the last time we were in the park together, I was too shy to talk to you!! This time – I was determined to try and speak, I have so much admiration for what you’ve done. No apologies necessary. Maybe another time….You’ve already achieved so much – I hope that this is of some small comfort to you, in the difficult times ahead. When you feel up to it – please find a way to let us know, how you are doing. You have touched our lives, and I’m sure like me, there are lots of other people, that will want to know you are alright. Till then – our thoughts are with you. Take car. Sylvia
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:59 am
Dear Martie – how I will miss my daily dose of Kruger. You are a wonderful person and gave so many of so much pleasure.I’m praying for you and that what ever happened is not too devastating and that the Lord will be with you and comfort and heal you. Bless you and thank you again for all you meant to us. I did not miss a single episode of your adventure and will always treasure my virtual journey through Kruger in my heart.
Sterkte and love
Lorraine Barkly East
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:08 am
Hi Martie,
Again; look how many people from all over the world are thinking and praying for you !!
I hope this will comfort you and will give you strenght as well!!
You reached so many people and made their days a little brighter for all those months.
It even inspired people ( me, among others ) to come and visit Kruger again!
All the best in the future,Greetings, Thomas.Vancouver
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:08 am
Hi Martie
A very sad moment in our lives indeed, you and the blog have become such a part of it. So sorry it had to end this way for you, but you are in the prayers of so many people, God will keep you and help you through this. Thank you for inspiring us to live our dreams, and most of all for bringing Kruger to us in a very special way.
Lots of love
Mariaan, Uvongo
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:09 am
Hi Martie, having read your blog from the beginning, never sent comment as felt for you having to answer so many, just enjoyed it and envied you the year, as I adore Kruger. Now I feel devastated, but know not nearly as devastated as you must be. So sad for you and hope that all ends well! Sally
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:40 am
Thankyou so much for all you have meant to all of us , you have brought joy and happiness into so many lives around the world, you are very special.We are so happy that we met you and only wish we could have known you better as friends. Thankyou for what you did for kruger and South Africa you are a wonderful ambasador. May you find peace and strength in the arms of your family.Your devestation is felt by all,and remember what ever the reason your decision it is made for your own life and that of your family. Thankyou for sharing your life in Kruger and your family with us ,you will be missed.
Lots of love,Bruce and di xx
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:40 am
Halo Martie
Ek is vreeslik jammer dat jy so skielik moes oppak en jou droom verlaat. Ek hoop van harte dat jy ok sal wees, en dat elkeen van ons se blog jou die krag sal gee om deur jou probleem te werk.
Soos baie bloggers al genoem het, jy het soveel mense geraak met jou droom selfs vir my dat dit in die aand ‘n top punt van gesprek was…
Ek sal tuis kom en Philip sal my vra ….”En, wat se Martie”….. dan sal ek hom vertel en later as ons gaan inkruip sal ek deur my foon op jou blog gaan en vir hom lees en jou foto’s wys. Jy het in meer as een manier so baie mense geinspireer. Jy het regtig deel van ons lewens geword, en wat ook al die rede was vir jou skielike ontruiming weet net dat jy ook altyd in ons harte en gebede sal wees. Ons het so geheg geraak aan jou en jou droom.
“May the Lord guide you, and be with you each and every step of the way”
Baie dankie vir jou Martie, dat jy jou droom met ons gedeel het vir elke comment wat jy beantwoord het en al die pragtige foto’s.
Liefde
Ramona
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:46 am
Dear Martie
Our hearts ache for you in your devastation and sadness. Your blog has been our daily delight and the photos will be an everlasting and indelible memory of what you discovered for us daily in the KNP. We will all be the poorer without your dedication and your blog.
We join the countless others who have already expressed their concern for you and that they, and we, uphold you and your family in our prayers. Go well and God bless you always.
Green Widow may be without signal as she’s ‘birding’, but I know she’ll share our sentiments and will want you to know that she cares, and loved the time that you shared.
With our love, Ron and Pam, Rustenburg North West
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:59 am
dear Martie
I am sure the prayers and good wishes of everyone will go some way to helping you get through the crisis you face .
Be assured that your world -wide circle of friends will all be thinking of you and hoping to hear from you when you have got your problem sorted out .
fond love
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:20 am
oh dear.
I echo the concern of all on the blog today.
trust you will be ok.
take care.
know that you have the support (even if just in “cyberspace”) of hundreds of people.
and many who can be of support out of cyberspace too.
say if there’s anythingwe can do?
you are in my prayerful spot.
take care and God bless.
Heather Cohoe
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:45 am
Hi Martie what can i say that hasnt been said but good luck & God Bless.
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:49 am
Hi Martie,
Whatever has happened must be serious and I am truly sorry that you have had to end your “Dream” in such a way.
Thank you for giving us so much pleasure and joy over the months, I am so sorry that I didn’t get to meet you in person but feel I do know you any way just from your daily blogs.
Take care of yourself,
God Bless
Regards
Elsa
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:51 am
Martie,
Your blog will be missed and I’m very sad that your dream and ours had to be cut short. THANK YOU so much for what you did bring to us from Kruger. It has been a pleasure sharing your joy of Kruger with you.
You are in our thoughts at this trying time.
God Bless.
- Terri -
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:53 am
Dear Martie, was totally shocked to see what had happened yesterday, I sincerely hope that everything will come right for you. We have truly enjoyed living your dream with you and you have left a big gap in our lives, but you have left your mark in KNP, with that we have to thank you very much for bringing it to us every day. Our prayers are with you in this time of crisis. All our love Chrissie & SO.
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:54 am
Dear Martie,
I think you are one of a kind and your daily input into our lives will be sorely missed. You have done good in bringing Kruger to the world … some would never be able to go there, so your dream was lived by many. Sad to see you go.
Keep strong, thinking of you!!!
♥ Elma
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:01 am
Hi Martie,
Thank you so much for living our dream as well. It was a pleasure to read your blog. God bless and keep u.
Regards
Sanet
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:06 am
God Bless
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:21 am
Oh Martie
I’m so so sorry that something has happened to spoil your dream. Thank you so much for sharing so many wonderful and amazing sightings and stories. I truly hope whatever has happened has not spoiled Kruger for you.
Thank you again for bringing so much enjoyment to so many people.
Gemma xx
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:37 am
Martie,
Whatever the reason, may God make you strong enough to cope and one day continue living your dream. Thank you so much for all the pleasure you’ve brought to us all during the last 265 days. Thinking of you and yours…. Sterkte
It came as such a shock to see you’ve had to end your dream.
Dave
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:37 am
Martie,It came as such a shock to see you’ve had to end your dream.
Whatever the reason, may God make you strong enough to cope and one day continue living your dream. Thank you so much for all the pleasure you’ve brought to us all during the last 265 days. Thinking of you and yours…. SterkteDave
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:37 am
Martie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Lifes balance can be cruel some times. Just when we are at our happiest we get brought back to earth with a bump. Thank you for sharing your dream with us, it has been a pure pleasure to experience your travels and tales and brings those of us less fortunate closer to our own dreams.
No matter how bad things look right now, you will get through them and come out stronger on the other side.
Robbie
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:40 am
Hi Martie
What a shock I just got. So sorry to hear about your trouble. At least you gave us much pleasure the past few months. Will miss you a lot, but think of you a lot. What ever happened, know there is a God you can talk to and many people loving and thinking of you.
Good luck and everything of the best.
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:56 am
Oh Martie,
I don’t really know what to say…except thanks for the joy you have brought to my daily life. I am thinking of you and hope you will be ok.
love
Jaybabe
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:59 am
Hi Martie
Many thanks for bringing Kruger into our homes – your blog bring back so many wonderful memories of our visit to Kruger. Our thoughts and prayers are with you – stay strong. xx
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:06 pm
Hi Martie,
I am shocked and sorry to see that you have stopped your dream plan and leave for Doha. Tears in my eyes and pray for you, wishing you a safe trip back to your home. We have been loving you for all the joy and happiness you brought to us. I have saved all your blogs from day 1. These blogs will be accompanying me and my friends. Good luck and all the best, my dear friend. Drop me an email if you feel so. Kenneth
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:07 pm
Oh Martie. What an absolute schocker of a way to end your dream. Know that we will be thinking of you and will be missing you on the birding weekend at Lower Sabie. Whatever it was that made you leave in such a hurry, please know that our prayers are with you and we hope that everything will be sorted out. Thank you for the wonderful blogs you brought us for 9 months and the beautiful pictures. We will miss you. Love and best wishes. Gerda and Jan.
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:13 pm
Dear Martie
So sorry that you have had to leave Kruger in such a state and hurry. May God be with you and see you through your troubled times. Our prayers and thoughts are with you always. You have kept us intharalled from the beginning of your venture. Do keep intouch.
Regards and love
Ada & Nic Collier
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:15 pm
Go Well Martie!
Remember we are all thinking of you and praying for you. Thank you for sharing your adventure with us for these many months now. God Bless!
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:33 pm
Dear Martie
I was shocked and very sad when reading that you left so suddenly. My thoughts are with you and believe me, we
all think of you and pray for you.
You gave us such a lot in bringing Kruger to us – what a wonderful time we had in reading your blogs.
Keep well and God bless!
Ursula / Switzerland
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:37 pm
Hey Martie– Very sad for you. Take care of yourself and whilst it might be the last thing on your mind right now just remember that the park will be there for you to finish off what you started when you are ready and able to do so. I hope that this will be possible for you sooner rather than later———–
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Dear Martie and fellow bloggers
It is with true sadness that we discovered this morning about your tragedy (whatever it is)! One thing is sure and that is that we were all so VERY spoiled for 264 days! Our dear friend, we solute your courage and effort! You are a great woman. If you could tackle all the challenges in KNP single handed, you will be able to face your next uphill as well! Many people pray for you and with you! Be strong and we hope that the next downhill in your life is not too far away! Hold your head high because you can! Find your strength in your Creator!
All our love
DAS
DAS
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:09 pm
Dearest Martie
We, like all your followers and friends of this entertaining blog, that you have given us so regularly are devastated to hear you left the park under such stressful conditions.
Just want to thank you so very much for sharing your dream with us, we are really going to miss you and all the wonderful pictures and stories of Kruger we have enjoyed every day. Hold your head up high – you are one amazing woman!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Go well
Tons of love and good wishes
Irene and Mark
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:10 pm
Agge nee! So jammer om te hoor dat jy so skielik moes oppak. Almal het al gesê wat ek voel–ons gaan die kuier saam met jou so mis. Ek het al gewonder hoe ons die onttrekking na 1 April gaan hanteer, dat dit miskien beter is dat mens nie weke het om daaroor te tob nie.
Sterkte vir die tyd wat voorlê .
Koos en Reinette . Durbanville
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:45 pm
Dear Martie
Thank you for the wonderful blog over the past 265 days. It was really wonderful to read about your experiences and see your fantastic photos – it felt as if I too was getting a little share of Kruger each day, enough to keep me going until my next visit there. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Best wishes
Bern
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:47 pm
Martie
I sent you an email earlier today Australian time, but must join in with all your friends and followers to say that I will miss you and your blog. I am so sorry to hear of your troubles but, as everyone else agrees, you will be strong enough to see them through. I so enjoyed the Kruger each day. It is my favourite place (I am also an ex South African) and I envied you your dream. I wasn’t looking forward to your dream ending as that would mean the end for all of us as well. I hope all goes well with you and that you can sometime let us know that you are okay. I am sure the beautiful animals will be missing you as well.
Kind regards
Carol
Sydney, Aus
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:47 pm
Hi Martie
So sorry you have had to cut your dream short, but honestly you have done the world proud with your blog, you have millions of supporters from all the the globe. I know that whatever has made you go home, you will be able to cope with in time.
It was wonderful meeting you in person and I truly hope that ‘WE” all hear from you again,if only to tell us that you are okay.
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:50 pm
What can I say? going to miss you ………………be thinking of you xx
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:03 pm
So very sorry Martie…
Just wanted to say how much we will miss you and that we are praying for you for strength and comfort in this unhappy time…….
Just remember how much joy you brought to so many people everywhere and know that you are in all of our thoughts and prayers.
X X Gill
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:04 pm
Martie – what a shock! As others have said, you are strong and hang in there. I know there are many of us that are with you in thought and prayers – keep strong and face whatever with courage.
Thank you for sharing your dream with us – you have made such a difference to so many people and we are goin g to miss you terribly.
Please let us know somehow how you are – we will worry until we know you and safe and happy again.
Thank you. Kruger will always remember you
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:13 pm
Oh no!!!
So sorry that you had to go so suddenly and under so much stress too. Thanks so much for sharing your time in Kruger with us, I really enjoyed it. Thanks for all the stories and photos – I will miss hearing them!
Good luck with your future and I hope you can overcome your current circumstances.
Love Dalena (Johannesburg)
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:07 pm
Martie, I am totally shocked and sadnend by you having to cut your dream short, I truly hope that you are ok and that everything will be ok. Just know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you so much for sharing your most amazing dream, we have been thorougly spoilt in sharing this magical dream with you. Thank you for the amazing photos and all that you have shared.
I dont know what more to say, as it wont take the hurt away of this tradgedy, but wishing you and your family, all the love, strength and determination to carry on.
Thank you for such special times shared.
Closing off with a sad heart and tears in my eyes. Good bye and good luck
Love Sarah
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:11 pm
Ai Martie! I am so sorry to hear that all is not well. My whole family is shattered as well, BUT we know and understand and we pray that all will be ok for you. You are in all our prayers, we are going to miss you dearly! You have become a part of our household. My heart is broken…. for you part. I am going to miss you. Hope to see you on the forum pages.
Good luck and God’s speed be with you and may God’s calmness surround you.
Love Liza, Johan and Luan Opperman
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Martie, I am so sorry your dream had to end like this. Thank you so much for bringing Kruger to us every day. It was the first thing I read in the mornings and it stilled the longing to be in Kruger. Just know that we are praying for you that God will sustain you during these very trying times. May God keep you and bless you!
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:38 pm
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:50 pm
Dink aan jou in die moeilike tyd. Hoop alles werk uit en dat jy rus in die Here sal vind. Sal jou foto’s en blog baie miss. Alles van die beste
January 23rd, 2010 at 4:10 pm
Sorry to hear about this tragedy!!!
We will miss you, your stories and wonderfull photo’s!!!!!
You are in our thougths, hearts and prayers!
Be STRONG!!!!
Take care!!
Regards,
Nkumbe and Pantera Leo (AKA Elsa en Jean Taute Bloemfontein)
January 23rd, 2010 at 4:30 pm
So jammer om te hoor dat daar probleme is. Ons dink aan jou en bid vir jou. Laat weet asb. hoe dit gaan.
Alita. Klerksdorp.
January 23rd, 2010 at 4:39 pm
AI Martie Ek kan dit nie glo nie…. maar jy ken jouself….. Ek sal jou mis!!!! En is bly ek het toe tog besluit om vir jou te skryf die voorlaasste aand. Ek hoop jy kom so gou moontlik by jou Engel sodat hy jou net kan VASHOU. Weet dat jy BAIE BAIE VREUGDE in Baie mense se lewe gebring het tydens jou verbly in Kruger en dikwels onder moeilike omstandighede. Sterk staan – hoop om van jou weer te hoor.
January 23rd, 2010 at 4:45 pm
Hi Martie,
So sad to read you had to leave Kruger and your dream has been “shattered”. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, and whatever has happened may God give you strength and bless you and your family. Blackie and I were the lucky ones to have met you and chatted and shared your dinner with you one night in Pretorius Kop. We thank you for bringing Kruger to the whole world and sharing your dream. And what a wonderful lady you are. A true inspiration. God bless. Delene D and SO. East London
January 23rd, 2010 at 4:51 pm
So sorry to hear about your strife. I know that none of the readers are ready for you to leave yet. Hopefully you will be able to sort out your problems and who knows, maybe you will have the opportunity to come back, cleanse your soul and finish your journey. Best wishes for whatever the future may hold. I am sure that Kruger and all the bloggers have not seen or heard the last of you!
January 23rd, 2010 at 5:21 pm
Dear Martie
You have achieved a wonderful goal and spent almost 9 months selflessly bringing Kruger to us on a daily basis. It was your dream and you lived it well. I can’t imagine what has happened to make you leave so suddenly – but whatever it is – know that we are all here to support you – many prayers and positive vibes are going out into the ether. May everything turn out well and if it can’t may you have the strength to cope.
You have a huge following and we all love and admire you. Sterkte.
Love
Helen
January 23rd, 2010 at 5:40 pm
Martie
Baie dankie vir alles wat jy opgeoffer het om ander se drome waar te maak.
Jy is en sal baie se beste vriendin bly. Dankie vir die beste tyd ooit. Hierdie is n’
memory wat ek nooit sal vergeet nie. Hoop alles gaan goed.
Baie sterkte vorentoe!
Sandra
January 23rd, 2010 at 6:12 pm
Hi Martie.
So sorry your dream has been shattered. I pray that you have a safe flight back to Doha and strength to cope with whatever has caused your departure. You have become like a friend to so many of us and you will be missed. Thanks for sharing your adventure with us.
Tina
January 23rd, 2010 at 6:14 pm
Hi Martie
Just to say thank you for a wonderful trip – we enjoyed every instalment – wishing you the very best for the future
Thanks again – will miss the daily “report”
Love
Rene
January 23rd, 2010 at 6:19 pm
Hi Martie!
My heart stopped when I saw your blog!!
I am so so so so so sorry for the pain you have to go through!
Please don’t feel any guilt for having to end this experience early.
I agree with everything that’s been commented today.
Please let us know if everything is OK!?
Lots of love
Liz & Wes
January 23rd, 2010 at 6:56 pm
Martie, sterkte met wat op jou pad is! Toe my man vanoggend die blog oopmaak, en hy se vir my ag nee!! Toe hy my vertel het ek yskoud geword, jy is n icon in die wereld, want ek glo nie ek sou solank alleen kon bly nie en nogal kamp en trek. Laat weet asseblief vir ons of jy ok is. Soos jy kan sien is almal saam met jou in die hart.
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:27 pm
Hi Martie
I hope all works out for you! Will definitely miss you!
Robyn
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:31 pm
Dear Martie
I am really saddened at this blog! I hope it all works out for you!
God Bless
Robyn
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:32 pm
Martie, thank you for bringing us along for the ride…. your daily blog was fantastic. I am sorry your dream has come to and end so suddenly. I hope things work out for you, we wish you well.
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:34 pm
Martie,
I’m wishing for strength and comfort for you as you deal with your situation.
Thank you so very much for sharing your dream. Your pictures and stories have been something I’ve looked forward to every day since I found this blog. Your generosity in sharing them says so much about you!
Wishing you all the best.
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:55 pm
Hi Martie
I am really, really sad to hear that you had to leave and going to miss your blog terribly. I pray that everything is ok. Thank you so very much for your commitment to the blog and sharing your life with us. Words can’t express what you have done for us and how it has changed our lives, just bringing the most beautiful place on Earth to our computers everyday. I really hope to hear from you soon and just make sure you are ok. It was a great pleasure meeting you in November and you are a truly, wonderful person.
My prayers are with you.
Jenette
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:06 pm
Hi Martie
We are also saddened by the sudden change in event and we trust that all
will go well with you.
Thanks again for allowing us to share in your special experiences which we
truly cherish.
Regards
Leon & Sylvia Kaplan
P.S. There is a life lesson in that we never know what is waiting behind the
next bush !!!!!
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:14 pm
Dear Martie
Me and SO were lucky enough to spend a few moments with you at a Giraffe sighting with lions etc. We are currently in the park and were going to be in search of you tomorrow as we are in the Satara area. What utter shock and dissapointment not to have that wonderfull opportunity to do so again!!!
I wish to say, that I may not have commented as much as all your regular followers, but I read each and every day with great joy, I will miss that. You are the one reason why I am a visitor of the park again. Sometimes we have a difficult time dealing with what life hands us, and all I ask you to do is draw on each and every comment here knowing that so very many prayers are being said for you and your family and that each person here can be regarded as a friend who will help at the drop of a hat.
Thank you for making our lives that much more special. I also wish to say to you that it is because of you that me and SO share such a special relationship and that my relationship with God has become that much closer, as I use these kruger trips for keeping in touch with God and SO, and it is you who has brought me back to Kruger!!!! You have certainly changed my life!!!
Thank you for sharing your stories with us!!!
I pray that you will travel safe and get through your troubling time!!!
Take care,
Bryce and SO (Boksburg)
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:17 pm
Hi Martie, thanx for bringing us the Kruger on a daily basis for the last 265 days – we have really enjoyed every minute and lived through your good and bad times. It was really great meeting you briefly (shelley t) at the lion kill! We are truly sad that your stay has come to an abrupt end and am praying for you and your family.
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:38 pm
Hi Martie,
so sorry your dream has ended so suddenly,we’re sure the decision was not taken lightly.We’re going to miss
your wonderful blog and are sure that all your memories will be with you forever,treasure them dearly,they
can never be taken away.
It was great to have met you right at the beginning of your trip and sincerely hope that you get through this
difficult time.
Our thoughts are with you and we hope to hear from you sometime.
Take care wherever you are,
PF and SO.(Neil and Carol).
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:12 pm
Dear Martie
So sorry that something has arisen to cause you to leave in such a way. Our thoughts are with you and as others have said, please let us know when you can. Will always think of you fondly as one who reached out to others.
Love BevG
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:33 pm
Dear Martie
When you started your dream – we dreamed with you
When you sat at sightings for hours and brought us stunning photos – we sat there with you
When you had funny experiences – we laughed with you
When you had sad times – we cried with you
When people disobeyed rules in the park – we got mad with you
When you cooked your meals over the fire each night – we ate with you.
You are amazing – and now we will all miss you.
Whatever your troubles are – may you find your peace.
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:48 pm
Go well Martie and thank you for what you have done for so many people all over the world.
We shall miss you greatly
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:57 pm
Hi Martie,
What can we say that has not already been said. You will be missed ! You are truly a wonderful inspiration to us all ! I was still hoping to make a quick visit to Kruger in the next month or two and meet you!
Trust in the Lord and He will see you through – we are praying for you!
Safe journey home ! Please keep in touch,
Much love,
Veronica & Ced.
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:57 pm
absolutely shocked hope you go well in these difficult times
badgio
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:06 pm
Dear Martie,
We just got home from our 6 nights at Olifants and I wanted to catch up on your blog. I’m so sorry to hear that you had to end your dream! Our prayers are with you and your family during this testing time. Thanx again for your hospitality Tuesday morning. My mother and I enjoyed the brunch and especially your company tremendously and I’ll cherish that morning for the rest of my life! Sorry, once again, for being so late!
Take care
Louis
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:15 pm
Dera Martie
My first comment. What a wonderful story you’ve told us over the past days. You are truly an inspiration. You will be in my thoughts and conversations with “The Great Gamekeeper” and trust that your pain will be shortlived. Thanx once again for allowing me to be part of your bigger family.
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:24 pm
Dear Martie,
My earlier comment (9.57 pm) does not seem to have come through.
We are very sad your dream had to end so quickly and in this way. Thank you for the joy and inspiration you have given us all!
We shall miss you greatly! Have a safe journey home.
We are all praying for you – trust in the Lord and He will see you through!
Lots of love!
Veronica and Ced.
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:39 pm
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I had to read your last blog twice before it really hit me…You left Kruger and in such a sudden way. We will miss you very much and you and your family will be in our prayers. We enjoyed your stories and photo’s extremely and will really miss you. Take care and remember ‘you made a lot of people very happy’ by bringing Kruger to us every day. THANK YOU
Love
Marijke
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:43 pm
Hope you are feeling better tonight – I think you need a long sleep, say 10 hours!!!!! Please Martie, my email address is thereeds@global.co.za, please mail me, I must know how you are!!! You have become a friend over all these months!!! God Bless and sleep well, you deserve it!!!!!! Lots of Love, Sally
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:44 pm
Hi Martie,
Thanks for hours of reading pleasure. Will surely miss it.
I am sure everything will work out just fine.
God bless
Annatjie from Centurion
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:51 pm
We are really sad to see you go! I hope everything turns out ok. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if you are ok… The whole world will be worrying
we will miss you. Love liska
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:05 pm
so sorry you had to leave so suddenly. hope you will be ok once you reach your family.
thanks for the lovely dream we have shared with you. all our thoughts and prayers are with you. please blog when you are able to let us know how you are. you are a family member now.
linda – uk
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:09 pm
Martie, you have shown us the beauty and excitement of dream following! You have blessed us with glorious photo’s and bushnews, as nobody has ever experienced before. Thank you for sharing your dream with us, it enriched our lives. Will keep on praying for you. Love, Phil & Tersia Malherbe (Pretoria)
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:28 pm
Martie,
SO and I are deeply saddened by your quick departure from Kruger, where you helped the world see Kruger. Your passion was apparnet to us all, and you will be missed. We are so sorry that we didn’t get the change to meet you while we were in the park during September. We have followed you daily since the beginning, and have thoroughly enjoyed sharing your dream with you. We hope for and wish you peace, prosperity, health and happiness.
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:29 pm
Hi Martie
It was a shocker to read that you had left Kruger. I wish you all the best. Thanks and thanks again for this great blog, the beautiful photos and all your hard work bringing Kruger to us. It was also great meeting you on 2 occasions…once at Doispan (August 2009) and recently in Skukuza! You are a remarkable lady and a true champion.
God Bless.
Theuns
January 24th, 2010 at 12:19 am
martie,
thankyou so much for showing us kruger through your eyes. the wonderful pictures and stories will stay with us forever. i can only pray that everything will be ok for you. god bless and again,thankyou.
January 24th, 2010 at 12:50 am
Oh my word Martie am SO sorry your dream had to end in this way. But thank you for sharing your amazing experience with us. Go well, take care and God bless you.
January 24th, 2010 at 12:59 am
You have been an inspiration to so many, you’ve made us believe in dreams, we pray for your peace of mind.
The lives of each of us is in order, set up that way by our God. We may disorder our lives, for certain. But even then, when we turn to Him, He will help us reorganize in a beautiful way for our blessing and for His glory.
Hang in there… Bill (Florida, USA)
January 24th, 2010 at 1:27 am
Hi Martie jammer om te hoor dat jy die wildtuin verlaat het maar ek weet ook hoe jy na jou man verlang het dit is swaar, ons wat gereeld jou blog gelees het en na die foto’s gekyk het gaan dit vreeslik mis, in elkgeval jy het vir so baie mense iets gegee van die wildtuin en dit word baie gewaardeur, van ons Suid Afrika se mens sê ons baie baie dankie en sterkte vir die toekoms
Lien
January 24th, 2010 at 1:38 am
Hi Martie,
I just read that you suddenly had to leave Kruger. I really hope that you are ok and that everything turns out well!
Thank you so much for all your stories and the beautiful pics. It was nice meeting you in PM.
I will miss you and the blog!
Thanks again,
Margriet
January 24th, 2010 at 6:23 am
Dear Martie
Thank you for everything you have done and the joy you have brought to many with your blog.Wishing you everything of the best and I sincerely hope that whatever has happened will turn out ok.
Regards
Dion
January 24th, 2010 at 6:55 am
Dear Martie,
Thank you, thank you and thank you again for the dream you shared with us. Not only did you make Kruger come alive for me and my family, you also reached out and touched the hearts of people all over the world. Your dream became the dream of hundreds of expats and we all lived it through your senses.
Whatever your present circumstances and whatever the future may hold for you, know that you will be in the thoughts and prayers of many. You are our friend now and we wish you all the best.
Regards
Debora
January 24th, 2010 at 9:16 am
Dear Martie I cant believe that u couldnt finish your year in kruger. Whatever happened I am truly sorry.Ihope everything goes well and the situation will be ok.
Regards
Good bye
Tali
January 24th, 2010 at 10:32 am
I cant tell you the happiness you have brought to my days with your blog. All i can say is the joy you have brought to so many lives will come back to you Martie. Be strong and G-d bless. Im really goona miss you and this blog
January 24th, 2010 at 10:35 am
Hi Martie
We met you at Lower Sabie during December and shared some of your experiences with you.
We are sorry that you had to cut your journey short but your achievements were nevertheless astounding!!!
Your blog was read and appreciated every day.
Wishing you well
Ron and Imke
Hillcrest
January 24th, 2010 at 10:40 am
Martie – It is with great sadness to hear that you have had to end your stay in your beloved Kruger Park. I wish you well and hope and pray that all goes well with you.
It was a great privilege to have got to know you – Thank you so much for all the good times we spent together – I will never forget you.
You brought me and the rest of the world Kruger on a daily basis – your commentary and pictures were amazing and we are all surely going to miss our daily Kruger fix – Thank you for sharing your dream with us all.
Please pass on my best wishes to your wonderful daughters Megan and Carmen – great to have met them as well.
You are in my thoughts. Have a safe trip back home – God bless and go well! YOU TRULY ARE A SPECIAL PERSON.
Norms.
January 24th, 2010 at 10:40 am
Martie, whatever happened that forced you to return to Doha, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, we are praying that yuo will be whole again – and one day – maybe you can come and finish living your dream. Us who read the blog each and every day will have withdrawal symptoms because that was the highlight of our day!! God bless you and thank you for bringing Kruger into our homes every day. As everybody is concerned with your wellbeing, please let us know the day you feel you are ready to face the world again.
January 24th, 2010 at 11:02 am
Martie
Ek het die eer gehad om jou te ontmoet skukuza, en wil net vir jou se jy is een van die denamiste mense wat ek nog ontmoet het, jy het jou karavaan aleen opgeslaan so ook jou tent. Aleen gebraai, op jou eie. Mens daar is nie baie van jou soort nie. Baie Dankie vir elke dag wat jy ons deur jou oe laat sien het die stories wat jy vertel het en die mooi fotot’s van ons diere en plante groei, ons gaan jou ontsettend mis.
Wat ook al vir jou beskore is ons dink aan jou. gesin. Sterkte Mis jou klaar.
We pray for you and Engel.
All our Love
Albert and Shirley
January 24th, 2010 at 11:43 am
Hi Martie,
Ek is verslae oor wat gebeur het en aanvaar dat dit nie anders kon nie. Jy alleen moet deur die krisis werk en net altyd onthou jy het baie mense se lewens verryk met die blog elke dag. Al jou nuwe vriende staan by jou in gebed.
Ek glo dat jou trane van vandag in goue druppels gaan verander!
Gaan in vrede soos jy elke dag ervaar het in Kruger.
Groete
January 24th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
hi Martie,
I have come back twice to check and recheck…is this for real?Really hope that you are ok and that you travel safely?I thank you for your time…take care and enjoy..I miss you already…more than ever!!
Best Regards,
Pambere
Pretoria
January 24th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
Hi martie
I’m very sad to hear the terrible news but its a good thing that you are going to be with your family.
thank you sososososoSOSOSO!!!!! much for all the entertainment that you have given to me over the past 200 odd days
it has certainly gotton me all amped to read your dream from the begining again because it actually makes me feel like im sitting in kruger.
Even tho you did not complete your dream we are all still very proud of you.
I will continue to still tell my friends during school at breaktime or in the classroom about your stories that come to us at night!! they definately were great to read.
once again THANK YOU VERY VERY VERY MUCH!!! I admire you for doing this and you have inspired me to try and do the same thing when im older. thank you so much martie
this feels like im loosing a friend ive known for a really long time!!
well we hope everything goes well you will be in my prayers!!!
January 24th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
My love and thoughts are with you Martie.
Thank you for sharing Kruger with us.
We are all thinking about you and hope you are okay. Be strong.
Kindest regards,
Maureen
January 24th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
Martie. Terribly sad that you had to leave so unexpected. It could not have been easy for you to make the decision. You deserve happiness, cause that’s what you braught to all your readers! Thanks once again for sharing your dream with us. We were all very priviliged to share in it. Hope you are safe and surrounded by people who can comfort and care for you. Hold on to the great memories. Believe that God has many more great plans with you!! Hope all turns out well for you soon! Not only will we miss your photos and stories, but we will will miss you! Love, Cashandra
January 24th, 2010 at 4:00 pm
Dear Martie
) were thrilling, to say the least. The Oom dutifully read your e-mails every morn’, in fact, it became a pattern. First ‘Manna uit die Woord’, and then your blog. I am sorry that events overtook your stay. Would have loved to meet again at the cricket. However, I shall never forget our meet at Doispane. I hope that all works out for you. God bless. Elzet 
I was a secret admirer. I read your posts whenever I could. Regrettably not as regular as I wanted to. However, your guts, photos and tales (tales of tails
January 24th, 2010 at 4:01 pm
oh martie
I just got back from a weekend prac and thought my mom was joking when she phoned to tell me but now i see it for myself. Oh martie we all feel so close to you after sharing your dream with you for so long. Please let us know u are ok?
lots of love and prayers.
January 24th, 2010 at 4:20 pm
Beste Martie,
Jou waagmoed en deursettingsvermoë om jou droom deur te voer het ons almal so geinspireer! Dit het gevoel of iemand my hart uitruk toe ek sien jy is “weg”! Die gevoel van verlies is groot! Mag jy gou weer vrede en vreugde ervaar, en dubbel die geluk terugkry wat jy in 100e ander mense se lewens gebring het!
Mooi loop!
Tes en Stephani Joubert
January 24th, 2010 at 4:32 pm
Dear Martie,
So sad that you had to leave unexpectedly. Your blog was a daily ritual and a time to share Kruger with you. We will miss all the photos and stories. And you. You have become like a friend over the months. Prayers and thoughts with you. God Bless.
Love Janine – Alberton.
January 24th, 2010 at 4:42 pm
Hi Martie, Shattered!!!! We were away for the week end and the first thing we did when we got home was to switch on the computer to catch up with the Blog. We could not believe what we were seeing… Martie gone…. Ronnie and I are going to miss you and our daily Fix. It was a privelege to have met you and spent time with you, especially on your birthday. Thank so much for your daily blog, wonderful photos and the inspiration you have given to so many of us. This must be serious, as we know you were still enjoying living your dream while at Maroela and you were looking forward to going to Balule, so stay strong and know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many people around the world. Thinking of you.
Tibby and Ronnie
January 24th, 2010 at 4:52 pm
Sorry to see you had to cut your stay short my SO (Mellory) and i will miss your reports terribly. Hope all goes well with you and yours you are in our thoughts and prays.
Ernest
Johannesburg
January 24th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
Dearest Martie -
My heartfelt best wishes as you struggle through this next adventure in life.
So many comments echo my thoughts. Sweetpea’s comment was perfect – we were right there with you thru it all these past 264 days. And now, we all wish to heal your heavy heart.
Thank you twenty bazillion times over!!! You are an amazing woman, an inspiration. I will treasure your experience for years to come. Several of your sightings are on my screensavers!
Sending you virtual hugs from the Pacific NW, Seattle USA
Michelle
January 24th, 2010 at 5:41 pm
martie
be blessed to resolve all issues.we will miss our daily fix immensely.
ian and fam
January 24th, 2010 at 5:47 pm
Hi Martie
Shocked and sad that a personal crisis has shattered your dream.
Know that you have a massive internet family and friends to lean on.
Sterke to You and Yours….
kind regards
Richard
January 24th, 2010 at 6:01 pm
Hi Martie
Wow, what a shock indeed to read this final blog.
Martie, I never had the priveledge of meeting you, but you had become a virtual friend. Every morning or evening I read your blog.
Whatever your problems are, myself and everyone who has posted above and those that follow, are thinking of you and praying for you and your family.
Thank you for what you have done so selflessly for the last 264 days. You are an inspiration indeed.
I wish you well and hope that we still get to hear from Mgoddard on the forum.
Warmest wishes, God bless
Glen
January 24th, 2010 at 6:27 pm
Hi Martie,
Really sorry to hear about your sad news. Will be thinking of you in our prayers and thank u for the great inspiration you have been for all of our lives!
Take care of yourself!
x
January 24th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
SEm
January 24th, 2010 at 6:51 pm
Hi Martie,
Very shocked to read the news of your departure under such sad circumstances. You made Kruger come alive for all us addicts around the world. We will never forget the kind hospitality you showed us in Berg in Oct. You are in our thoughts at this difficult time.
Scottish hugs
Maddie & Mark
January 24th, 2010 at 7:21 pm
Martie, ek was so geskok toe ek lees van jou vinnige vertrek en kon my nie eers indink oor hoe jy moes gevoel het nie. My hart gaan vanaand na jou uit. Mag die Here se seën met jou wees. Mag Hy jou dra in hierdie tyd! Ons bid vir jou. As ek so deur die antwoorde op jou blog lees dan is dit duidelik dat jy BAIE vriende/vriendinne in hierdie paar maande gemaak het. Ek glo dit gaan jou ook help om te weet daar is baie mense wat vanaand aan jou dink en ook vir jou bid!
January 24th, 2010 at 7:22 pm
Hi Martie
Thanks for the all the enjoyment you brought us all. Best of luck for whatever it is that lies ahead – we are all thinking of you with great sadness at how your dream had to end before it was due. Carolynn in PE
January 24th, 2010 at 8:14 pm
Hi Martie
Thank you for sharing your Kruger experience with us.I absolutely loved going on the blog everyday and looking at your magnificent pictures and reading your stories.I will miss it alot.I wish you all the luck in the future and hope everything works out well for you.
January 24th, 2010 at 8:36 pm
What a sad evening. Thank you for all the great stories, photo’s and just being in Kruger when there are so many of us that lived our dream through you. You blog will be sorely missed and as you would have seen by all the comments above there are a lot of people that are praying for you in this difficult time. God bless Willem, Rochelle, Luke(3) and Adam (11 months), Randpark Ridge, JHB
January 24th, 2010 at 9:05 pm
Martie you have brought Kruger to thousands of us for about 264 days and while we all new the time for you to leave was nearing, we are devastated to hear not only that your year has been cut short, but that our dear friend has had to leave due to reasons of a personal matter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
January 24th, 2010 at 9:26 pm
January 24th, 2010 at 9:43 pm
Dearest Martie
Thank you so much for all you have done and what an acheivement, so sorry to hear you have had to cut your dream short . We will be thinking of you and hope all will be well very soon.
With love to great friend Sue and Ellie UK
January 24th, 2010 at 9:47 pm
Still not real to us – ALL your leopards are missing you lots…
Your
Super sluipers
xxx
January 24th, 2010 at 10:10 pm
Martie - you brought the Kruger into many homes and did it so well!!
Thanks for sharing your time with us and may everything turn out for the better.
So sad for you that your dream has been cut short.
Go well.
January 24th, 2010 at 10:11 pm
Beste Martie – Ek het elke dag jou blog gelees maar nooit kommentaar gelewer nie – is baie jammer daaroor vandag! Ek kon nie glo dat jy net “weg” is nie. Baie dankie vir die wonderlike wedervarige wat ek met jou meegemaak het en alles wat jy my geleer het. Sterke vir die tyd vorentoe en mag jy krag van Bo kry om jou deur hierdie moeilike tyd te dra. Groete. Marie du Toit van Centurion.
January 24th, 2010 at 10:19 pm
Dear Martie,
this is a sad good-bye indeed! All I can do is wish you strength to cope with whatever it is you have to go through, and to thank you again for letting me share your love of Kruger.
Take care,
kind greetings from Germany
January 24th, 2010 at 10:47 pm
Dear Martie,
I am one of so many who have been anonymously enjoying your blog, and have not commented — until now. I have thought long and hard about what to say in this short space, and this is it: Like so many others, I am heartsore that your dream couldn’t be completely realized. But what you have in fact accomplished is more than one would have ever imagined possible. It was not only extraordinary that you had the courage and conviction to undertake this odyssey — a year in Kruger on your own, in order to live your dream, but even more extraordinary was the way you executed it.
Instead of relaxing when you were not on the road, you spent hours and hours of your rest time almost every single day, sometimes under very, very tough circumstances, and to the point of exhaustion, to share your dream with thousands of others around the world. Your readers and admirers include avid fans of Kruger’s majesty, who know it well and keep coming back from the farthest corners of the earth, and people who have never experienced Kruger, people who do not have the ability to come to Kruger, but simply understand and appreciate the awesome but fragile beauty of our threatened planet.
It has been your selflessness, your devotion, and your exceptional kindness and generosity you have shown to all of us, that makes what you have done truly extraordinary. The fact that it was shortened slightly does not in any way diminish what you have accomplished — the difference you have made to others in your life. I salute you, and thank you, and I pray that your current personal situation is speedily and happily resolved. Nothing, however, will take away what you have done for so many people around the world and I hope that this recognition will give you strength and peace of mind and body.
Warmest regards, and with great appreciation and admiration,
Anthony in Los Angeles.
January 24th, 2010 at 10:48 pm
Dear Martie
Words fail me to read that you had to leave Kruger. It felt just as if I lost a dear friend. Thanks for all the wonderful stories and photos, especially the leopolds (our favourites as well). We will miss you. Be strong while you go through this crisis. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Thinking of you
God Bless
Yvonne and Manie.
January 25th, 2010 at 12:31 am
Martie,
Like in the Kruger, life throws you all sorts of surprises.
Be strong and draw from the positive experiences you have in your heart to come out of this stronger.
Alles van die beste and keep in touch
Ingwe1
January 25th, 2010 at 1:06 am
Oh Martie a sad day indeed.
I echo all the sentiments of your avid fans, you are a real inspiration to us all. Not only did we live your dream with you but you “created” a blog-family whose love and thoughts will hopefully help you deal with your current personal crisis. I and SO were one of the lucky forum members to have met you on the day you heard that you were voted SanParks Champion – a title you richly deserve. Thank you for the wonderful stories and pics and for being the special person that you are. Please blog when you are able to and let us know how things are.
God bless.
Cynatra, SA.
January 25th, 2010 at 5:47 am
Martie, wishing you all the best and thanks again for sharing your experience with us all – it has been a pleasure to read about your time in KNP. Thanks!
January 25th, 2010 at 6:11 am
Hi Marie
Having just returned from a weekend out I was eagerly awaiting to reading this wonderful blog of yours. It was a great shock to see what popped up on the page, but I really hope everything goes well as I have truly enjoyed living your dream from day 1. You come across as such a wonderful and strong person that I am sure you will be able to face with whatever it is that is awaiting you in Doha. Once again though I would love to thank you upon how grateful I have been about been able to stay in touch with wonderful Kruger through your eyes. Thank You.!
Wildfreak
January 25th, 2010 at 6:40 am
Hi Martie,
How very sad to hear the news. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. I hope all goes well for you. I read your blog each day and would like to thank you for all the beauiful photos and living your dream with you. Stay strong.
Lynn Gauteng.
January 25th, 2010 at 7:25 am
Anthony in LA previously said it very well, there will be a gap in my life to fill where I used to read about your daily adventures, thank you for sharing it all. Strength for the future.
January 25th, 2010 at 7:46 am
Dear Martie
I had no words this morning when I opend the blog. I never thought that it will feel like this (heart broken). What ever the problem is may the good Lord lead you every step of the way. May HE gide you and protect you and your family all the days of your life’s. You can still leave us a small messeges on the blog.
We were very priveliged to have meat you and happy that we did. We will miss you dearly and looking forward to hear from you again one day.
Best wishes for ever.
Love
Thea and family.
January 25th, 2010 at 7:50 am
Hi Martie
My thoughts & prayers are with you. Thank you so much for sharing with us and whatever may have happened you will always be remembered for Living your dream and sharing it with all of us. Kruger was seen daily through your eyes and in turn by us on the blog. God bless.
January 25th, 2010 at 8:08 am
Martie what can we say that has not been said. We will miss you please you got our detail if you would like to just have a chat. I don’t know who is the saddes me or Pieter. You have had a big influence on mys sons life. Good luck and keep well.
Please if you need any assistance or just want to have a chat you know we are here for you and i’m not just talking about the Dreyer’s i meen everybody that has been reading your blog like addicts.
WE ALL LOVE YOU
January 25th, 2010 at 8:08 am
Martie, mag jy Vrede vind in Hom wat was, wat is en wat kom.
January 25th, 2010 at 8:09 am
No Martie!!!
Cant believe that you leaving. Thank you so much for the wonderful time you gave us. Thank you for enriching our lives. May God bless you and give you strength in whatever it is you have to face.
Just know that you meant so much to all of us. You were the highlight of my day. You sometimes were the reason I could carry on.
Wishing you all the happiness you deserve.
Thank you to SANPARKS for allowing this special event in our lives!
January 25th, 2010 at 8:10 am
My thoughts too are with you Martie and selfishly I wonder – how do I start my morning now without my Kruger fix!!! You have touched so many lives with your candidness, your incredible photos and bringing to thousands of people some of the magic of Kruger that many are not forunate enough to witness – we will sorely miss you and we all hope that somehow you will find the strength to cope with what has been thrown at you. Don’t despair and when the hours are really dark, read back on your blog and all the comments and know how many of us love and miss you!!!! Take care and good luck.
January 25th, 2010 at 8:15 am
Hi Martie, What can one say, take it only one day at a time. Don’t think about tomorrow – just live today and all will work out well in the end. I pray that God will protect you and make you strong. Take care. You did so much for others and it did not go un notice. God is in control. Love Marie
January 25th, 2010 at 8:19 am
Dear Martie
It is with tears in my eyes that I am sending you this message, I am so sad to see that you had to had to leave so suddenly,
whatever the situation, I know that you will be strong. Rodney and I met you in Skukuza and had a great time talking
to you. Thank you for sharing your dream with us and everyone else. I hope that one day you will be able to complete
you dream.
May God bless you and your family and you will be in my thoughts
Love
Rodney & Cheryl
January 25th, 2010 at 8:25 am
Dear Martie
I have followed you on a daily basis and you have brought me great pleasure through showing me your Kruger (a place I love) but you have touched my life in a stronger way by making me realise that one can live ones dream and sa far I have only taken small steps but through your example I am on my way.
Thank you and hope things work out for you.
Sue
January 25th, 2010 at 8:25 am
Hi Martie
Thank you for always going the extra mile in bringing that perfect shot for us.
You have touched so many lives and will be missed by many!
You will be in our prayers and just know that we will NEVER forget you……..
Melissa
January 25th, 2010 at 8:31 am
Martie,
Just got to work, and logged in for my daily check on Kruger, only to find your message, and the 169 responses.
I hope that all works out well, and that you make it back to Doha safely.
I thank you for all your wonderful stories, and photo’s, and everytime I cook chicken on the braai, I will think of you. I have told so many people about you, and how you are living your dream, but also for many of us our own dream. you have really become a “friend” to many of us.
Really going to miss your updates, and I think that everyone shares the same sentiments.
God bless, and keep safe
Lorna
Durban
January 25th, 2010 at 8:35 am
Hi Martie
Jy is in ons gebede ek het alreeds ‘n gebedsgroep vir jou inwerking gesit. Indien jy jou karavaan en bakkie wil stoor totdat jy dit verkoop het. Ek kan jou help. Hoop om gou weer van jou te hoor. Jy is beslis die Kruger Queen. Ek gaan jou verskriklik mis want jy het ons hoop gegee dat ‘n mens nog jou droom kan laat waar word. Baie liefde
Charmaine. Kempton Park Johannesburg
January 25th, 2010 at 8:36 am
Hi martie,
First of all, good luck and we wish you strength in whatever it is that you have to cope with now!! We will be thinking of you!!
Then, we would like to thank you for sharing your dream with all of us!! It was great to see the sightings and read all the stories that you had to share with us!!
It will be something to get used to again to not read a new blog everyday, but thank you for the days that you made all of us bush junkies very very green with envy!!
Good luck with what lies ahead of you, I do hope that everything will be fine!!
Kind Regards
Ilse
January 25th, 2010 at 8:37 am
Sorry to hear this! We all are with you in our thoughts and prayers! God Bless!
January 25th, 2010 at 8:50 am
Hope you are well. Bless you.
January 25th, 2010 at 9:01 am
Dear Martie,
Remember that you have actually never left Kruger – once it is in your heart, it is there forever and you can be in Kruger every time you wish to return to your wonderful memories over the past 265 days. I am sure you have inspired many to follow their dreams, and you have been a wonderful ambassador for the Park.
Be strong, have faith, take things minute by minute and they will not overwhelm you.
We will miss you, but hope you will be back in the Park again sometime.
January 25th, 2010 at 9:33 am
Liewe Martie
Eerste keer dat ek skryf maar het elke dag jou “stories” gelees. Jy het vir my soos ‘n suster geword. Jammer om te hoor van jou teespoed. Weet een ding verseker daar is ‘n Hoer hand wat jou toevou en koester in Sy liefde. Baie, baie dankie dat jy elke dag Kruger tot by ons voordeur gebring het. Ons gaan jou baie mis!!
Alles van die beste
Groetnis
Melanie
January 25th, 2010 at 9:35 am
Hi Martie
I have never commented before but I was an avid reader of the blog, I did not miss one entry, Thank you. I wish you all the best for the future.
Kind regards
David
January 25th, 2010 at 9:42 am
Hi Martie,
So sorry that you had to leave so suddenly, glad I got to meet you at Skakuza thanks again for the pic of the Buff calf you sent me.
All the best for the future.
Regards
Rodney
January 25th, 2010 at 9:53 am
Hi Martie,
I’m so sorry to hear about your sad news. Just know that we all will be thinking of you and let us know when everything is better because you have a whole Kruger family that will always think of you!
Friends that went wirh us to Satara this past weekend saw you on the road and when we booked in at Satara on Friday morning the said i missed you with a few minutes. I’m so sorry i missed you but thank you for all the joy you brought us with living your dream and ours!!! Just remember, you didn’t fail us, you enriched our lives.
God bless!
Lots of love
Gretha
January 25th, 2010 at 10:11 am
Martie, one mis jou al klaar! To ease the ‘empty’ feeling – isn’t it weird? – I am going to start reading all 264 days again- one day at a time. When that is finished, hopefully we will all feel better. Sterkte Martie. Carolynn
January 25th, 2010 at 10:14 am
Hi Martie, Can’t believe that I am crying! You became like a friend to all of us. Hope your personal problems are sorted out soon. Please can you write a book about your time in Kruger, which I am sure will be a “best seller”, as I would love you keep your writings forever! Goodbye and good luck, Lots of Love Wendy.
January 25th, 2010 at 10:28 am
Sterkte – glo net alles sal goed uitwerk. Niks gebeur wat nie reeds lankal in die Groot Raadsplan vir ons lewens beplan is nie, so hou moed en staan sterk. Groete, Antionette
January 25th, 2010 at 10:33 am
Hi Martie
Thanks for being an inspiration to so many… You showed us that it can be done – Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Travel safely and remember to let us know that you are okay… We are worried about you.
God Bless.
Lily (Kempton Park)
January 25th, 2010 at 10:41 am
Dear Martie
My heart weeps for the sudden ending of your dream. I too, like every other reader of your blog, want to thank you for the joy you have brought us and I won’t forget you.
Every time I visit Kruger your words and photos will be in my mind.
God bless you
Secretarybird
January 25th, 2010 at 10:47 am
Dear Martie
Anthony in Los Angeles said it all in a wonderful way! I agree with him!
Love
Madeleine
January 25th, 2010 at 11:09 am
Dear Martie
I also read your blog every day and have thoroughly enjoyed it! My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. The Kruger will always be there to welcome you back.
Kind regards,
Nikki
January 25th, 2010 at 11:09 am
Dear Martie
You are in our thoughts and thank you very much for sharing your dream with all of us. Good luck and I hope all is OK on your side.
Love
Nanette
January 25th, 2010 at 11:44 am
Dear Martie
i am so sorry that you had to end your dream so suddenly! i hope that you are ok and that everything is or will be ok soon!
We all hope to hear from you soon, just so you can let us know that you are ok. I am so sad that you have left.
you fill my life with joy every morning, i loved reading your blog and look at your photos!
i enjoyed having lunch with you in Octoober and getting to know you.
all the best
Tracey
January 25th, 2010 at 12:11 pm
This is a black monday for me. Hoping to hear from you in future !
Wilma from Centurion
January 25th, 2010 at 12:17 pm
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Just hope you know how many hearts and lives you have touched with your kruger experience, we miss you already and the day just won’t seem the same without a read of your blog. PLEASE – have your blog published – as is – we read it because we love the emotions, the spelling mistakes and the way you write with your heart, that is what we want, not a polished biographical account. Lynda and Jean, Amanzimtoti
January 25th, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Martie thank you for the update go well and God be with you as we are all with in our thoughts and prayers
January 25th, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Martie,
Jy het in almal se harte in gekruip en met trane in my oe; Ons weet dit sou eendag eindig maar niemand sou ooit wou he dit moets o v jou eindig nie.
Jy en jou gesin is in ons gebede – hou vas aan God hy hou jou styf vas!
Your blog has been our daily sanity and ray of sunshine and the photos will be an forever part of our memories as will you a wonderful loving woman – our Kruger champion.
We are poorer without you but will hold on to your 264 days memories.
Please if at all possible – let us know that you are ok – just that you are ok!?
God bless liefde groete
Liezl
January 25th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
Hi Marie
Thank you for letting us know. I think we are all both shocked and sadend by your news and pray that all goes well.
Once again thanks for bringing Kruger to us when we could not be there.
God Bless and pray you have a safe journey back home.
Regards
Dawn (Johannesburg)
January 25th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
Hi Martie,
Travel safe and thank you for your update!
January 25th, 2010 at 12:55 pm
Hi M
This is really and truly sad news, i always knew that this blog would oneday end, but not like this, in this way, so unexpected.
Please take care and keep in contact.
Ayesha
Johannesburg
January 25th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
Dear Martie,
I really appreciate your update … here’s a biiiiig hug for you! Travel safe, God bless and I’ll keep you in my prayers.
Love Elma (SC)
Kwa-Zulu Natal
January 25th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
Thanks for the update Martie, our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Love,
Gerhard and Family
January 25th, 2010 at 1:03 pm
Hi Martie
Thank you for the update and please let us know when you arrive at your destination.
Regards
Dawn (Johannesburg)
January 25th, 2010 at 1:22 pm
Dear Martie, journey mercies.
January 25th, 2010 at 1:22 pm
Hi Martie
Janet and I had the priveledge of meeting you at Lower Sabie. We wish you all the best on your way home to Doha. Our thoughts are with you at this stressful time. ALL those whose lives you have touched through your beautiful photos and frank commentary will be poorer for not being able to connect with you. Safe Travels and as they say in the classics “STERKTE”
Philip (Randburg)
January 25th, 2010 at 1:25 pm
Ag nee, dit was my gunsteling website en blog gewees. Maar baie dankie vir al die lekker postings die afgelope tyd. Sterkte. Gert
January 25th, 2010 at 1:31 pm
Hi Martie
Thanx for the update.
Travel safe and know that u have so many who love, admire and respect u. U have come to the end of a great job done, no matter how it ended we are still with u. We know u loved what u did and we THANK U SO much for ur unselfish and endless task of bringing us the blog no matter how long it took u each and every day.
Take care and travel safe…………most of all THANK YOU
Louise Australia
January 25th, 2010 at 1:34 pm
This a first for me but I was addicted to your blog.
I was shocked when I read the news but as so many before me said we will miss our daily Kruger news.
”If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it”
Kind Regards
Marie (Jeffreysbay, SA)
January 25th, 2010 at 1:56 pm
Hi Martie
It was with such a heavy heart that I read your last blog. I hope and pray that whatever awaits you in Doha you will be able to face with the same strength and courage that you had all these months in Kruger. You brought joy to so many of us with your stories and wonderful photos, and that is always something you will have to look back on when things settle down again for you.
My thoughts and prays are with you and your family. We would love to have updates on your life from time to time.
Keep well Martie
Helen
Elgin
January 25th, 2010 at 2:26 pm
Martie, since I have read that you dream is shattered you are always in my mind. i was shocked and I am always asking myself, what´s happened to Martie or to your family? I did not comment so much this blog, only several times, but I was reading and enjoying it nearly every day I learned so much about Krüger (where we stayed already 3 times). And also I was reading it, because of learning and completing my english language. Whatever happened to stop your dream ending like this I fell very sorry for you.
God bless you and your family
Edith from Germany
January 25th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
Martie, ek het nie woorde vir jou nie……wat ook al verkeerd gegaan het – niks wat ek kan sê sal dit beter maak nie.
Sterkte en baie liefde.
Naomi
Centurion
January 25th, 2010 at 3:05 pm
I’m certainly shocked. I am sure you have your reasons. You have shared so much through out the last many months I hope that you decide to share some information about what caused these unfortunate turn of events with us too as many, including myself, are worried, concerned and curious.
I will miss your blogs dearly. I wish you all the best.
Dana Atkinson
January 25th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
Hi Martie
Thanks for the update. Have a save trip to Doha.
Be strong with whatever has come on your path.
Go well!
Pumba
Benoni
January 25th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
Hi Martie
I have followed your journey with great interest, although I have never commented. I also had the great pleasure of meeting you briefly at Skukuza the day before you went to Lower Sabie and like I said it truly was an honour to meet you in person. I was very shocked to read your block this morning and can not help to wonder what has happend. I understand that it is private and I respect that. I want you to know that you and your family will be in my prayers and I am sure that how ever difficult your situation currently is you will be out it a stronger person.
You are a very strong person as it is to take on the journey you did for the past 200+ days and what impressed me more about you is when we met you my sister aksed you if you will do it again if you could and you answered yes without any hesitation.
Keep strong and know that you are in the prayers of allot of people that got to know you through your blog.
God bless
January 25th, 2010 at 3:38 pm
Hi Martie,
like you would return without fail to see the Leopard and her Cub…So I have returned 3 times to see if it is for real…. and I am afraid it is for real..I miss the blog and especially concerned if you are ok??
Take care and stay safe!!
Best Regards,
PAMBERE
January 25th, 2010 at 4:17 pm
Dear Martie, thank you for the update, as said before me many times we are all very concerned about you and your family, we sincerely hope you get through this tough time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, please keep in touch. All our love Chrissie & SO.
January 25th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
Hi Martie,
I am one of the silent masses who has read your blog daily yet remained silent, other than the request for readers home towns. To me it was a bit of escapisim and gave me the feel and excitement of being in Kruger on a daily basis. You brought so much pleasure to so many. I saw you in Skukuza in April but did not meet you as you had a guest.
A very big thank you for all of your blogs and photos. Your photographic skills developed enormously during your stay.
Will somebody else now take over from where Marie left off?! Otherwise we are all going to get withdrawl symtoms!
Marie….you suceeded. Well done! You have become a bit of a Kruger legend. May your problems be small ones and let time heal them.
Kind regards
Stan
January 25th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
Martie,
dit is soos die lewe is: een dag nog daar – die volgende dag weg! Baie sterkte, jy is in ons gebede.
Theresa
Tzaneen
January 25th, 2010 at 4:40 pm
What a shock .so sorry to hear you have stress in your life,and hope the healing will come quick. It was so good to actually meet you in the Kruger and get to know you,we are all going to miss the daily does of that place and everything you did there . Go well our friend,untill we meet again.
Regard’s Tim, Mel, Cody and Tanna
Margate K.Z.Natal
January 25th, 2010 at 4:44 pm
Dearest Martie!
I hope whatever misfortune that has befallen you shall soon pass. Our thoughts are with you.
You have become a friend even tho we have never met. You have let me live and share your life as you lived your dream. Know that you are not alone
Take care
Luren
January 25th, 2010 at 5:16 pm
Martie, we have just returned from a weekend away……our hearts ache for you and our prayers are with you.
January 25th, 2010 at 5:34 pm
Hello Martie,
First of all, STRENGTH for whatever it is that you have to face.
Life does throw us curve-balls at times, and can be harder than hard.
Hope you have the energy and clarity to deal with things. Be gentle with yourself.
Thank you so very, very much for being BIG enough to have ALL of us in your life and for the beauty and joy you brought to us.
Reading your blog has been a gift. A bit of fun, loads of anticipation, humour and excitement every day.
We will miss your daily story, but now it’s about You.
Take care of yourself and hope that you feel all the goodness and thoughts etc. coming from all your readers and friends.
With much love,
Corine
January 25th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Martie,
Thank you for your blogs, especially the last and your direct contact with my SO (Chappie), it was much appreciated.
You have brought so much joy to thousands of people, across the world with your words and photos, that I am sure in time that joy will be returned to you a hundred fold. In the meantime, let the prayers of your many friends near and far carry you through this trauma, till you do become one and yourself again. It was truly an honour to meet you in person and spend some time with you.
If there is anything, we can do to help at any time, please do not hesitate to contact us. Kindest regards and Best wishes, Noel.
January 25th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Thanx for the update martie. glad u are ok…or as ok as u can be. my thoughts are with you.
January 25th, 2010 at 6:42 pm
Thanks for the update and God bless you and we do respect your privacy and YOU as a human being.
January 25th, 2010 at 7:35 pm
Good evening Martie….
Thank you for the update. Travel safe and take care.
May God’s comfort and peace guide you.
January 25th, 2010 at 7:51 pm
My thoughts are with you in your difficult time- you HAVE lived your dream! and thru you many of us have done the same. May you keep strong in the weeks and months ahead. Best wishes for the future
January 25th, 2010 at 7:52 pm
Martie
I went back to the blog tonight maybe you would be back but its all over. I still cant believe that its over.
Hope you are ok . Thinking of you
Shirley
January 25th, 2010 at 7:54 pm
Hi Martie,
Take care
Louis & mom
January 25th, 2010 at 8:06 pm
Dear Martie,
Thanks for your ” up-date” !!!!
And it came true,…we’re all blue ( see my poem)
Please take comfort in the prayers from all your readers !!!
People from all over the world think about you and wish you well !!!
Have a save trip home and let us know how you are doing, if and when you have the time.
We will not forget the Lucky Leopard Lady,Greetings, Thomas,Vancouver
January 25th, 2010 at 10:56 pm
Dear Martie.
So sad to hear that you left the Kruger so soon – really hope that everything works out well for you and your family. Thanks so much for everything you did to so many people all over the world – you came into our houses and hearts in a different way and we will all miss you! God bless and we will pray for you. Love
January 26th, 2010 at 12:01 am
Hi Martie
Sorry to hear that your Dream has been shattered.
We hope that you can quickly recover from whatever has happened.
We will really miss your blog and would like to thank you for your excellent pix and narratives.
You have kept Kruger alive for thousands of us.
Lots of love
Alan & Elaine
January 26th, 2010 at 5:08 am
For many reasons, I will always share that Jackal Berry in Maroela with you. It was absolutely upsetting to read tonight of your distress and sudden return to Doha and wish you courage and comfort in what you face. May you be blessed in the knowledge of how many of us, all around the world, you’ve connected in celebration of the Kruger Park we love. Thank you Martie.
January 26th, 2010 at 7:48 am
Martie, dit maak nie saak dat jy nie die volle tyd bly nie. Dink so daaraan, dat jy elke dag ‘n stukkie hemel aan ons arme ouens kon gee wat nie in Kruger kan uitkom nie. Dit was ‘n voorreg om elke dag se lief en leed en pragtige fotos te kon deel. Baie dankie vir elke foto en elke storie wat jy daagliks aan ons gebring het. Ek hoop dat jy sodra jy rustig is, jou ondervinding en fotos in ‘n boek sal sit (terwyl jy aan al die lekker terug dink) en so gou moontlik dit vrystel. Dit was ook amazing om te sien hoeveel “Kruger lovers” in die wereld is wat elke dag saam met jou gestap het. Baie sterkte vorentoe. Marisa van Jeffreysbaai
January 26th, 2010 at 7:52 am
Martie
There are no words to describe what we felt when we read about your sudden departure. I cant even begin what you must have felt. You must have planned your last day in Kruger in the finest detail and never imagined it would end like this. Just know you have got the support of thousand ‘fans’ who will always be there for you. You have brought Kruger to us, one of the greatest gifts ever. Now it is our time to do something for you! Just know that God holds you in His hand every difficult step of the way.
Take care
Lots of love
Hennie & Marelize
January 26th, 2010 at 9:17 am
Hi Martie
Just have a look at all the support you are getting and how many of our lives you have touched in this time where you brought Kruger to us and at the same time “Living your Dream”. It was an amazing experience for us all and we will miss all the great sightings and wonderful posts you brought us live from Kruger.
Now I will have to find something else for my daily boost to get through the day at the office. Whatever your situation is, I wish you all the best and you have succeeded in bringing Kruger to us – what a pleasure meeting you as well outside Berg & Dal at the leopard sighting.
Good luck and we hope to hear from you soon!!
God bless!!!
Diederik and Monique
(KNP-Junkee & *Bosbokkie*)
January 26th, 2010 at 9:40 am
Hi Martie,
I have like so many others went back to the blog to see if there was not a mistake!! I will miss your daily contributions, but pray also like so many other people that you will be strong enough to face the challenges waiting for you. Please remember that nothing is too small or too big for our Lord!!
Hope to hear from you soon again, will keep on checking the blog!! Good luck and God bless!!
Susan (Koemaan Pretoria)
January 26th, 2010 at 10:13 am
January 26th, 2010 at 10:45 am
Nou moet ek maar “Public Sightings” kyk vir my kick vir die dag. Malan
January 26th, 2010 at 11:33 am
Hallo Martie
So sorry to hear that you had to leave. Really hoping and praying that you are ok. Thank you for you contribution to Kruger National Park. There is not enough words to describe what you have done for nature conservation. You have brought nature back into hundreds of homes. You have given so much for me and one day I hope that you would come to the Eastern Cape, Jeffreysbay so that I can take you to Addo Elephant park. So that you can experience elephants in a whole new light. You will love it.
Thinking of you in this time and know that you will let us know as soon as you feel like talking. Take care. xxx
January 26th, 2010 at 12:12 pm
January 26th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
Hi Martie
So sad to see you go! Good luck, I hope that everything works out well for you. Be strong, and know that you and your loved ones are in our prayers!
Thank you so much for bringing Kruger to us, your blog was really something to look forward to every day, and was really inspiring, we will all miss you very much.
Junette
January 26th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
Martie, what can I say that has not already been said. My thoughts and prayers are with you and I hope they give you strength in the days to come. Look after yourself and your family. Issy
January 26th, 2010 at 3:04 pm
Dear Martie,
Marion & I are very saddened by the abrupt ending to your dream in Kruger. Wow, what an experience you had. You are in our thoughts and prayers and we really hope things work out for you guys. I thank you for your dedication in sharing all your experiences with the world, it has been truly amazing & touched the hearts and souls of so many wonderful people from all over the globe. Take the knowledge that God is with you during this time, to heart, he has shown you his amazing creation & you have in turn shared it with us all.
Much love, the Kokkies.
January 26th, 2010 at 5:47 pm
Martie, I was a late comer onto your fantastic blog. My love for Kruger is closely embalmed in your narrative.
I am slowly reading your entire blog and so enjoy your adventure.
May all your problems be solved and may you return with greater strength and hopefully an understanding of what has cut your dream so short near the end point of your adventure
January 26th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
So sorry to hear you have troubles. We were your almost neighbours at Satara on 2nd Jan. We saw you working away and my husband said Gee I wish I could help her but I suppose it is the rules she must do it alone. Let us help you now. Maybe buy your caravan or just listen to your problems. Be assured of our prayers for you.
Love
Ann and deaf son Chris and Family
January 26th, 2010 at 10:45 pm
Ditto to Anthony from LA and all others.
Bastergemsbok, Pretoria. RSA.
January 26th, 2010 at 11:29 pm
Hi Martie, Still checking the blog as a force of habit, missing you like crazy!!!! Take care Martie and God Bless you and Steven and the rest of your family!!!! Thinking of you and trusting all will be well !!!! We all love you lots!!!!! Thanks again for everything you gave us!!!!!!
January 27th, 2010 at 1:51 am
Hi MG. Back from 5 days away and just seen your 23 Jan post. Just said a quick prayer and hope all will be well.
Thank you. Love. Team rusky
January 27th, 2010 at 8:02 am
hallo all
just to let you know that if anyone is interrested in marties caravan you are welcome to phone me on 0721209598 as it is with me and i am trying to sell it on her behalf.
January 27th, 2010 at 8:39 am
Hi Martie
I was in Stellenbosch when I saw your shattering news.
We wish you strenth and hope all goes well.
you are all in our prayers.
Cecile and Hennie
January 27th, 2010 at 9:18 am
Hi Martie, ek kyk maar nog elke oggend of jy nie iets laat weet het nie. Mis die Blog en Kruger verskriklik. Kan net dink hoe jy dit mis!!! Baie sterkte en laat weet asb. hoe dit gaan.
Alita, Klerksdorp.
January 27th, 2010 at 10:12 am
January 27th, 2010 at 11:02 am
Hallo Martie
Jy ok? Ons nog nie weer van jou gehoor nie. Dink aan jou.
January 27th, 2010 at 11:17 am
Thinking of you. Hard to imagine that you are now on another continent.
If we all feel the gap so badly, can only imagine how hard this must be for you.
Without time to prepare for a worthy farewell.
Trust that this will all make sense one day and that we’re all (especailly you and yours) blessed in differnt ways to the ones we expected and became accustomed to.
Take care.
Love, i♥kruger
January 27th, 2010 at 12:30 pm
Hi Martie,
Still checking to see if it was not a bad joke
January 27th, 2010 at 2:21 pm
Sterkte Martie
Ons gaan jou verskriklik mis!!!!
Laat God saam met jou die pad stap!
Al ons liefde
January 27th, 2010 at 3:31 pm
Hi Martie
Nadat ons jou Julie 2009 in Satara ontmoet het, het ek gereeld jou blog gelees. Dink aan jou, sterkte,
Ek wou nog altyd dieselfde doen as jy – dit is my droom ook………………..
Sterkte
January 27th, 2010 at 3:56 pm
Hi Martie
I always thought one day I would leave a comment on your blog. I also suspected that I would probably be one of hundreds of people who read your blog but do not leave comments. Reading all the comments above – I now see that I am exactly that, and there are probably hundreds more like me.
I have read every day of your blog and also told many friends about it. You have become such a part of my life. The amazing thing is that I feel like I know you so well yet you never even knew I existed.
Having said all this, you must know just how shattered we also are to hear that your DREAM had to end so abruptly. I guess this could sometimes be a better way to end but we just got so used to going in every day or so and getting an update and enjoying your stunning pictures. I can’t believe it has ended. More importantly though, I really hope and pray that you are OK. We have all become very fond of you. Well done on undertaking this enormous adventure and having the courage to live your dream. We know it was both a lot of work and a lot of joy. You have become an inspiration to so many people and I would love to be able to do what you have achieved.
Take care of yourself Martie.
Oliver (Johannesburg)
January 27th, 2010 at 5:03 pm
Hi Martie
Not much to say that hasn’t already been said.
I hope everything works out for the best – don’t be a stranger.
Jen (Geneva, Switzerland)
January 27th, 2010 at 5:19 pm
Ag Nee!
Is baie hartseer om te hoor van jou omstandighede Martie. Baie sterkte!
Baie dankie dat jy elke dag n bietjie sonskyn in my lewe gebring het!
January 27th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Almal wonder en wag in spanning?
January 27th, 2010 at 9:45 pm
Oh Marti
So sorry it ended this way. Oliver says it all.
Be strong
Cassia (milnerton Cape Town)
January 28th, 2010 at 1:52 am
Look on the bright side people!!
The ‘Year in Kruger’ has still not been done so it’s still up for grabs for someone else to do!
January 28th, 2010 at 1:53 am
And I forgot to metion, if you’re quick of the mark, I know of a cheap caravan going that is well eqipped for a year in Kruger