MEMORIES OF MY CHILDHOOD

 I have been very nostalgic and sentimental recently. I am planning to move abroad. I sit and empty out the cupboards most nights, trying to figure out which items are going with me, which items to be sold, or to be donated. I came across a very special box which had very precious photos, some cassettes and CDs which I am keeping. My school uniform tie from Jeppe Girls was signed by my friends. Beautiful and tiny crochet baby boots! The baby boots really blew my mind. It humbles you knowing how tiny a baby is until it grows up. 

My first childhood memory goes back to around the time I was 5 years old. I had vague memories of Cyrus, my brother, when he was born. I remember Dad’s mother visiting us, and the house was full of visitors. It was quite disturbing. I remember trying to help my mother set the table or take the dishes to the kitchen to be washed. Up until now, I haven't liked guests, especially the ones who sleep over. I feel like they invade my space,  eat all my food, and make my house messy! I prefer to meet up with my friends in a restaurant. You will never find me trying to cook fancy food and set fancy cheeseboards to try and entertain people in my house in my adult life.             

Back in those days, we did not use disposable nappies. There were white cloths that had to be washed, disinfected, dried, folded, and stored in the cupboards. Another vague memory is when mom used to wash my brother's bump in the basin. He was definitely under six months. I went to school from the age of 3 years. I definitely was a very depressed child who had separation anxiety. I did not play with anyone; I hardly had friends. I would skip most of the school days. I was crying most of the days when I was in grade one in primary school. I remember Grandma was in charge of me during that time. Mom would drive me to primary school, and my brother to my old playschool. Grandma would help me with my homework, and most nights I would sleep in her bed, which was very fun. 

My brother grew up and became more fun. We would spend our days running around the house and the yard, screaming and shouting. We had a two-story house with a big basement. I remember I always enjoyed going to the basement area where my uncle used to study. Granny and Grandpa used to tell me I must not go there because there are rats there! One day, I went there all determined, shouted to keep the rats away,
and went to the basement, feeling very triumphant. My mom had to take us to the parks so we could play and have fun. I remember my first bike ride on the street. My dad was showing me how to keep the bike balanced, and I was very excited!