21st birthday - Thursday 29 May 2025

A message to our dearest Dylan, for your future. 

Time is really but a blink of the eye. One day day you take your first steps. Then you blink, and suddenly your hair is grey and your eyes show the crinkles of a million laughs and heartaches when you smile. Remember this day fondly one day when you show this to your kids and grandkids. At a time when all us old timers are long gone, our journeys in this life completed. 

Tell them about us, and how fiercely we were united in our unconditional love for you. 

Know, on that day in your future, that we went with joy in our hearts for we were all so very much richer for having known and loved you, and loved by you in return. Know that we all considered you a wonderful blessing. 

And remember as you scroll through these pictures to reminisce about your younger days how, on this wonderful day you were surrounded by the people who loved you more than anything in life. 

21 is a big day. Officially you are now a grownup, in life and under law. May you live a rich and memorable life. 

Happy birthday. 

Mom, Dad, Liam, Kyla, Granny, Grampa and Spikes. 

As always, everybody around the table got an opportunity to say a few words in celebration of your life. But only 2 wrote it down - which makes it easy to add to this post. 

"My dearest, sweet, and awesome boy.

Words can never truly describe how I feel about you - but let me at least say this.

I say "I love you" every day. (Sometimes a 100 times a day). Many will think it is out of habit, but I promise you. Not a single time do those words towards you exit my mouth without it being the absolute truth and with the deepest sincerety and love.

I cherish each and every second we spend together no matter how insignificant others may think it is.

I appreciate your listening ear and cherish your wisdom that you not only share with me but unselfishly with your friends.

I know you are destined for greatness and it will find you.

I love you my boy!"

Dad

"Ode to Dylan Gavin Marais – On Your 21st

From the very first breath you took, twenty minutes new to this world, I knew you’d grow into a rare kind of man— one who carries both wisdom and wonder.

I witnessed your very first steps. I walked beside you on that first day of school. 

And today, I stand in awe of the man you’ve become.

Your mind is sharp as lightning. Your speech, a blend of clarity and grace. You feel the world deeply — a heart both tender and unshakably strong.

This kind of emotional intelligence cannot be taught; it’s a gift— and you wear it with humility and grace. 

As you step into the full bloom of adulthood, I wish you love that anchors, success that fulfills—not just impresses, and joy. So very much joy. 

Remember the words of Rumi:

"Try not to resist the changes that come your way. Instead, let life live through you."

And let Marcus Aurelius remind you:

"The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts."

Keep thinking deeply. Keep loving freely and fiercely. Keep living purposefully.

Your journey is just beginning, and I will always be cheering for you with pride in my heart and love beyond measure.

Happy 21st my big dude.

The world is a much better place with you in it."

Spikes

And we will end this post with the winged words of wisdom spoken by your brother, Liam:

"Happy birthday Dylan. Love - Liam. Is there any pudding left?"