The celebrations began on Friday, with family members from the United
States, United Kingdom, and Australia and all over South Africa arriving
throughout the day. After welcome drinks, some enjoyed a relaxing afternoon
while others had an educational trip to Emdoneni, the cheetah sanctuary. After
freshening up, everyone reunited at Tree Lodge where they had Shabbat and
prayers followed by a short welcome speech before a kosher buffet dinner was
served.
Saturday commenced with the family gathering by the pool at Safari
Lodge, where refreshments were served. The typical dry winter backdrop was
brought to life by the eventful flurry of children and elegantly set tables, adding
an entertaining atmosphere to the early afternoon’s pre-celebration.
A quick game of baseball entertained both the spectators and players,
working up a healthy appetite before lunch.
A delicious cold lunch was served alongside one of the many watering
holes we have surrounding Safari Lodge. The bare weather stricken branches
provided sufficient shade as the family enjoyed the buffet style lunch of
Brisket, Cold Meat, Salads and a selection of Fruit.
Zulu dancers provided a truly South African experience with their
beating drums and traditional costumes. After a short demonstration of their
refined skills, the dancers selected members from the somewhat astonished
audience to join in and truly experience Africa first hand by participating in
a traditional Zulu dance. The younger family members proved to be truly
remarkable, with their eagerness and uncanny flexibility, and at times even
giving the Zulu dancers a run for their money.
The main celebration took place in the Boma, where tranquil candles
lead the way to a welcoming fire in the centre. Blue lanterns, candles and
serviettes added a splash of colour to the Boma that was warmly lit with soft
fairy lights that gently draped the surrounding walls of the Boma.
The guests soon arrived and before long they came sweeping into the Boma, in their elegant attire gathering around the crackling fire, warming up
before celebrations begin. After all the formalities, a lovely montage of a
beautiful girl, who has now become a woman, was viewed. After which every one
loosened up on the dance floor, before enjoying a kosher buffet dinner.
The toasting of marshmallows over a sizzling fire drew the night to a
close and a beautiful evening shared between family and friends, who united
under an African sky to mark such a special occasion came to an end.
