In March 2011, my lovely friend, Carla, got married in
Clarens (see post
here). From the moment I arrived for the wedding, I fell in love. In the
foothills of the Maluti Mountains, it is honestly one of the prettiest places
in South Africa.
So when Josh invited me to come with him, on what was
essentially a family holiday, I was super excited…
We arrived at
Clarens Inn and Backpackers in the evening, on the weekend of
JAMBOREE, an annual music fest. Greeted by the smiles of
joyful family and friends united. A bonfire burning in front of the stage was
surrounded by people drinking, laughing and enjoying the spirit of togetherness.
Various bands played long into the night – including Folk
Rock band,
Rooibaardt, who seemed to be the favourite, and understandably so,
with their fun sound, wide array of instruments, and satirical lyrics.
I stayed in the girl’s dorm – Wall to wall bunk beds, with
bright pink linen, and floral curtains. Ruffled covers on bottom bunks gave me
the impression that there were only top bunks available – An exciting prospect
for a 12 year old, but rather intimidating when considering the amount of
gymnastics that was necessary to heave myself into bed. Throughout the night
creaking springs could be heard under thin foam mattresses.
I was up early the next morning, dreading the use of the
communal bathroom – public bathrooms being one of my biggest phobias. With rubber flip flops firmly on my feet; I
closed the shower curtain, turned on the water, and braced myself for a cold
shower and was pleasantly surprised by the steady flow of hot water.
After a very necessary cappuccino, we piled into the mom
wagon, and
deployed into town for
breakfast at The Post House – no doubt one of the most popular breakfast spots
in the town – and after eating the breakfast tramezzini I completely understand
why.
The weather was miserable, but the bonfire and a steady flow
of alcohol kept everyone warm. People danced barefoot in muddy puddles to the
eclectic mix of musicians.
On Sunday afternoon, we once again piled into the mom wagon,
and headed to the Golden Gate National Park. The sun was shining, and we
enjoyed a large part of the afternoon talking nonsense and laughing on a rock
overlooking the most beautiful valley.
Sunday night was our last night in Clarens - it is always
sad when such a wonderful time comes to an end - especially for those saying
goodbye to family who stay far away. I was reminded that rather than focusing on
the sadness, we need to remember the good times that were had, and the memories
that were made.
I had the best time, listening to awesome music, sleeping in a creaky bunk bed, learning
new words and phrases, singing songs with made-up lyrics and mostly just laughing loads.
Thank you my Joshua for sharing such a special weekend with me
– So much of lesbians for you guy xxx
