Thulubonge Mpande

The moon is full and it’s soft light invades every corner of Thulubonge’s lounge. The tv is the only thing that is switched on but Thula is still able to see every expression on Mama’s face. The floor is the coolest part of the room and Thula’s stomach and legs are able to find some relief from the summer heat.

“When the sun comes out, nawe kanjalo Thula.”

“So early mama!” she complains.

Mama is dreading bedtime because she knows that sleep will only come after midnight when the temperature begins to drop. She would be in bed by now. Mphoeapula, Thula’s older sister, is in her bedroom trying to put the baby to sleep for the second time. Mme followed her a moment later when she heard the baby fussing. She cannot bare it when anyone in her family is in distress.

Thula’s alarm goes off. She fumbles for the snooze button but is too late. Mama knocks on her door before she’s able to even get the blanket back over her head.

“Mo fe a few more minutes love,” she hears Mme whispering.

Minutes later, Mama walks into the room while holding the baby.

“Vuka sisi, we had an agreement angithi? Mme ironed your clothes so you could have a few more minutes of sleep.”

Thula gets out of bed and walks slowly to the utility box. She opens her other eye and is not surprised to see that the geyser has already been turned on, but she was hopeful. On her way to the bathroom she meets Mme. They hug and she thanks her for ironing her clothes. She’s going to miss her the most. She loves both her mothers dearly, but she’s closer to Mme. They have the same spirit and a gentle but firm temperament.

The one and half hour drive to the checkin point is a god send. Thula sleeps for most of the way. Her head rocks from side to side until the baby reaches out and touches her cheek. His warm little hand is a more pleasant way to be woken up than by an alarm. She plays “I see you” with the baby until Mme stops the car.

“Extra cheese please,” Thula beams.

“Just come with me Thule, you know they’re going to ask to see you because you’re leaving,” Mpho replies.

Thula opens the car door and the baby begins to cry. Mama quickly rushes to the back seat. She takes him out of his car seat and they go for a stroll around the car. Mpho and Thula return with two bags full of amagwinya. The moms look at each other and smile.

“Ntate Madida said seven weeks is a long time for this one to go without her favourite food, so mme Madida gave us an extra bag,” Mpho chuckles.

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