"It's not a memoir, but rather a collection of memories that have come to mind by reading old letters or emails, or sometimes by reminiscing about something from the past," Hilary explained.

Hilary and her beautifully presented book, with the enticing title of Welcome to Swakopmund, were centre stage on Tuesday morning (October 12) at Billabong Park.

The rain held off for the group of about 20 people who gathered to congratulate Hilary on her publishied achievement.

Sub-titled The Colourful Life of Hilary McKay-Kite, the book holds short stories Hilary has written about her adventures in many countries of the world.

"Hilary has probably not only visited more countries than most, she has also stayed for a period, even a year, and become familiar with the ways and customs of the people," fellow writers group member, Marg Collett said when introducing Hilary at the launch.

"Her stories are often heart-warming, sometimes very funny, but always entertaining,"

Those of us in the writers' group readily agree.

We have heard and been thoroughly entertained by samples over the past few years as Hilary worked on the collection.

As I open my copy now, I see she has included stories from her early childhood in South Africa, stories about her parents and family, but for the major part the stories are about people and experiences in other countries.

Her collection started as Christmas letters to friends and family.

And look how it has ended up-a wonderful collection, easy to read, beautifully illustrated-Hilary's gift to family and friends.