Destination weddings are great fun for two reasons. Usually the destination is pretty awesome, and with the exception of the wedding, guests are pretty much left to their own devices for entertainment.
Since the ceremony did not start until late afternoon, we all decided to visit a cheetah reserve for fun. I have to admit this is not really my idea of fun. I have a healthy respect, bordering on fear of most animals, so seeing hundreds of them all congregated in one place, locked up in homemade fences is not really my cup of tea. But I was wrong.
It’s clear that the animals are well loved. And the effort and devotion that goes into caring for them is touching. One lady has devoted over 50 years of her life to the cheetahs. I’m glad I was wrong. These animals are very special, and we are lucky that there are places working so hard to save them for future generations.
And as for the wedding…well it was beyond beautiful. To get to witness the love of two people as they start on their journey together is a joy. Thank you Paul and Maria for letting us be a part of your wonderful wedding!
Brian and I dressed up and ready for the big event.
It was a perfect day for a wedding in South Africa.
The bride and groom are radiant.
Maria was so beautiful. It brought tears to my eyes.
The chapel was built high up to accentuate the marvelous views. It was so high, I felt as though they were getting married in the clouds.
So lucky to get to share in Paul and Maria’s special day.
After the wedding, cocktails were served on the lawn.
Nothing like a wedding to make you sappy for your husband.
Saudi selfie!
And then it was time for the entertainment.
African tribal dancers gave us an incredible singing and dancing performance.
And I even revealed my Zulu inner self to the world.
A lavish reception ensued, followed by more dancing and partying well into the night.
Best wishes and congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Key!
Earlier in the day we went to a Cheetah and Endangered Animal Reserve. Even though it rained, the weather could not dampen our spirits.
This sign however, made me less than excited.
There are less than 8,000 cheetahs left in existence, and this reserve cares for and tries to breed over 100 of them.
The Egyptian vulture is completely extinct in Africa. This is the bird that is seen depicted in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. They are only found in Egypt and one other country nowadays.
Wild dogs are the second most endangered species in the world. There are less than 400 left in existence. They are the most successful hunters of all the predators including lions, tigers, etc…killing over 99% of all their prey.
Look at this! Cheetahs are so much bigger in person than on television. This one was almost as big as a table.
You can’t tell, but I am totally scared in this picture. Cheetah tip: Never pet a cheetah’s stomach because they are very ticklish.
And don’t get too close to them while they are eating.
This is a spotted hyena. “Aren’t they supposed to be ugly?” Yes, they do turn ugly after one years old. This one is just a puppy, so it’s still cute. But don’t let this adorable face fool you. They are vicious, and can actually kill lions just like in “Lion King.” Mustafa is real.
There is so much to do in South Africa, but it’s hard to tear yourself away from just sitting and taking in surroundings.