Another Journey of hope ‘’WONDROUS’’affair

This is the only word that can capture the heart of our recent wine stomping weekend at Sealbreeze on the West Coast. Ladies from all walks of life and all over South Africa got together, united for a breast cancer cause.

The fun started as soon as we arrived at Strandfontein as neatly manicured hands started to pitch tents.
For some sleep came easily that night after a lavish meal.  But some had to endure ‘’ladylike’’ or so we thought (how does one describe the word snoring) sounds.  Not even the high tide breakers could disguise it.

The first alarm went of at 5h30 the next morning as we had a very early appointment at the local school.  Fresh air and darkness greeted us as we crept out of our tents. Ever tried to apply your make up with your face illuminated by a torchlight a torchlight in the one hand, mirror and make up tools in the other, in a tent obstructed by inflated mattresses? Needless to say, no mirror had the privilege of reflecting my image the rest of that day, for fear of discovering more ‘’imperfections’’.

By the time the sun greeted us, excitement for the day ahead took over. After a very warm reception at the school, and the sharing of some of our HOPEFULL stories we headed for Seal Breeze wine Farm for the harvesting of the grapes. Picture seventy plus ladies in a vineyard harvesting grapes. Some dressed up to look like legendary creatures, the rest of us in specially made T-shirts reflecting the message of HOPE, AWARENESS, EARLY DETECTION.

The stomping process was a “sticky affair” Not only did we do a marvelous job, some ended up in the sweet, sticky and tasty liquid. A million expressions of sheer delight were captured in many a photograph. The fruit of the vine, the result of these fun-filled moments will be bottled in August this year.  The 2,000 bottles will each be numbered and all proceeds will go towards the Journey of Hope Breast Cancer Ride Cause.  Thanks to a wonderful person in the name of Joan Wiggins for this generous contribution to a very worthy cause. The day ended as newfound friends were treated by Seal Breeze hospitality. 

Journey of Hope and Sealbraaze bonding (Joan Wiggins & Frieda Henning)

The following day has it’s own story as we playfully cruised the river in rubberducks to get to shore on the other side of the river.  Yes, of course we were soaking wet by that time. Crayfish served on newspaper, note the contrast, were on the menu. I think some, or shall I say one, lost count of how many she devoured. She surely added a new definition to the enjoyment of this delicacy.  The day had a perfect ending with Lize Beekman blessing us all with her lovely voice and personality.  No better way to end a fun-filled day.   

So much more can be said about this amazing weekend.  Broken nails, blistered fingers, sticky hair, newfound forever friends, tears and laughter, over-indulgence in so many ways, tells it all.

Make sure you do not miss next year’s event!

Adri van Nieuwenhuizen.
Survivor

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