"Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife." Franz Schubert

A Senegalese wedding is considerable longer than English one. It starts with the men going to the mosque while the women celebrate. It then goes on to loads of food and partying at the wife's house. Everyone then rushes to the groom's house to see the bride be accepted into her new family. There is a small ritual before she is hidden in a room with her head covered. There is then another party at the groom's house. In between this, both families exchange many gifts and money. All of this is done over the course of a few days with loads of food and dancing. 

I must say, Master P, our host, knows how to plan a very lovely wedding . It was very exciting experience to be a part of Senegalese wedding - though, it did mean very little sleep! Our desk officer, Kate, and the other volunteers also came to visit during this weekend.  10/10

'Happiness held is the seed; Happiness shared is the flower.' John Harrigan

Such beautiful flowers. What a shame. 

"The moments of happiness we enjoy take us by surprise. It is not that we seize them, but that they seize us." Ashley Montagu

On 23rd of November 2013, I celebrated my birthday, which was actually the day after. The plan was to invite the other volunteers down to where I am volunteering and give them a grand tour, before hitting the club. Little did I know that my Senegalese friends had something a little more interesting in store for me. After our taxi driver mysteriously lost his way, we arrived at a small beach. A large group of people stood around a small fire. It took me only a second to realise what was going on. Something I'd always wanted! A surprise party. Not only was it a surprise party, but it was a surprise party on a beach in Africa. How could I ask for more?