Circle: Tygerberg
Branch: Joostenberg
Field: Arts and Craft
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster
Date: 12 May 2012

The Vriendinne spend their May gathering with Tygerberg Circle at their annual Art Info Day in preparation for 2013 competition articles.

First up was water painting. A lot was to be learnt around different paper weights, and how to prepare each to prevent the paper from creasing. There are also 3 different paper textures that one can choose from. A host of techniques was shared as to how one can give a 3-dimensional feel to your painting by including resists, print shapes, and substances like salt, sunlight liquid and much more. Want to write on your painting with water paint? Try a bamboo pen cut from the garden! At this point the Vriendinne was given an opportunity to practice their skills in water painting…

Pewter work was up next; and we soon realized that this form of art is much more up our ally than water painting.

The class included working on “sjim” (a thick tinfoil like material which is a cheap alternative to pewter), yet applying the basics of transferring a pattern/picture onto pewter in a 3-dimensional way.

Each Vriendin left with a small piece of art, which can be used as decoration on a card or gift bag.

Afterwards, the Vriendinne had a productive lunch at “Our Place” in Durbanville, where lots had to be discussed and confirmed around the planning and executing of our fund raiser in aid of hosting 2013 Conference for the Tygerberg Circle.

Exhausted, but excited and motivated to tackle the challenges ahead the Vriendinne came to the end of yet another memorable gathering.

www.ourplaceon46.co.za/
www.westerncape.gov.za/eng/directories/facilities/130/5222

Circle: Tygerberg
Branch: Joostenberg
Field: Culture and Public Affairs
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster
Date: 21 April 2012

The Vriendinne raised a couple of eyebrows and created cause for speculation. Many a smiles were met, and some of the more forward folks came to ask the question?

“Who are you? What are you doing?” Exactly the question we needed to promote and raise the image of the ACWW.

The Vriendinne combined their “Women Walk the World” event with the artistic flair of the ArtsCape Theatre.

Where are the days when people used to dress up in evening wear when going to the theatre, or even just the movies? Starved for the opportunity to feel feminine and beautiful, the Vriendinne decided to show off our feathers in formal wear for our April meeting at the ArtsCape; to see Shakespeare’s “A midsummer night’s dream”.

Since our event coincided with the “Women Walk the World” event, we agreed to combine the two, by walking around the ArtsCape.

We reached our destination just in time to enjoy a glass of “Bubbly” before the show started.

Although not 100% understood, the production was enjoyed by all. Interval gave way for much debate as to who exactly was supposed to fall under the spell of “the shadows”, and how they will fix it. How the chef turned out to be a donkey remains a mystery to us all…

After the show, the Vriendinne went for supper at the well known “Poplars” restaurant at D’Aria wine estate amidst the beautiful Durbanville Wine Route.

http://www.daria.co.za/
http://www.artscape.co.za/
http://www.acww.org.uk/latest-news.php

Circle:Tygerberg
Branch: Joostenberg
Field: Health
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster

Date: 10 March 2012

Joostenberg Branch, aka Vonkel Vriendinne was given a challenge at the 2011 Congress.

“Due to Sport and Recreation being added as one of the VLV study fields, the Vriendinne had to partake in the 2012 Argus.”

This was cause for some stress, as the fitness levels of the Vriendinne was most definitely not Argus standards…

But do not fear: we always come up with a plan; although sometimes with a bit of a “twist”.

Instead of exercising our bodies, we were exercising our minds to ensure our participation in the Argus.

Soon our plans were in place: registration had to take place, and attire had to be sorted out.

Well prepared and kitted with cool outfits, bicycles and helmets; the Vriendinne and their families arrived at the 2012 Argus.

The 2012 Tricycle and Junior Argus

Our kids looked beautiful in their t-shirts, promoting the VLV while partaking in their relevant age groups, ranging from 1.5km for the little ones (where mom and dad had to exert some effort as they were running next to the little ones); up to 5km and 10 km for the older kids.

Proud smiles on red and sweaty faces met up with even prouder Moms and Dads waiting at the finish line. Each and every kid received a medal for completing their respective races. 

A challenge ended up in a great family outing, filled with fun and a sense of achievement, enjoyed by young and old alike.

Oh, but let’s not forget: a challenge is a challenge.

Vonkel Vriendin Olivia and husband Paul entered the proper Argus, and in spite of extreme heat; finished the race in just under 6 and 4 hours respectively. As our Joostenberg Branch representatives, they have done the Vriendinne extremely proud!!! 

Circle: Tygerberg
Branch: Joostenberg
Field: Lifestyle
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster
Date: 20 February 2012

February is the month of love and in the spirit of Valentine’s Day the February theme was flower arrangements.

Member Anelda Louw (co-owner of A&A Flora in Joostenbergvlakte), gracefully opened her shop doors, in aid of teaching us the art of making a beautiful flower arrangement.

As the members arrived, each girl was issued her pre-selected flowers carefully prepared by A&A Flora. With aprons and scissors in hand, we were ready to start.

Anelda explained the “layers” to arranging flowers, starting with the greens using them as a frame as well as a filler. Once the frame was established, Anelda continued to explain the art of placing the selection of “highlight” flowers in uneven numbers strategically within your arrangement. Anelda gave useful tips with regards to using every last piece of the flowers and leaves, alleviating any wastage.

Once done, the girls could once again not believe what they were capable of creating.

Anelda’s mom Naomi (co-owner of A&A Flora), judged all of the arrangements, and prizes were given to the surprised winners.

The three winners will be representing Joostenberg branch at Conference, partaking in the beginner’s class for flower arrangements on the 7th.

A&A Flora Joostenbergvlakte:

Tel:  021-988 4138 / 021-988 1518
Address: 66 Owl Street, Joostenbergvlakte
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/AA-Flora/123796257641112
  

Correspondent: Juanique Vorster

After a busy festive season and some well deserved rest, the Vriendinne had another festivity to return to in January. We celebrated our very first birthday!!!!

As part of the celebration, we enjoyed some cake and drinks. Some work was also done, as we finalized our 2012 year program and competition articles.

The Vriendinne is looking forward to another action packed VLV year ahead.

Correspondent: Juanique Vorster

During the season of giving, the Vriendinne has taken joy in contributing to three Organizations:

12 Gift bags were made up for Dibanani Cape Town; a non-profit organization that has a great passion for children and believes that every South African child should be educated, loved and protected.   These gift bags gave reason for big smiles and happiness during their kids Christmas party held in December.

(Refer to www.dibananict.co.za  for more info in how to get involved and visit their Facebook page for more photo’s of this fantastic day)

Vonkel Vriendinne also supported the well know Santa’s Shoe-box Project, and contributed 20 gifts to the Andrew Murray Children’s Home in Wellington. The shoe-box contents and decorations were managed by our own children. We saw this as an opportunity to teach our children how privileged they are as well as showing them that Christmas is a time of giving; and not only receiving. In this way we can hopefully instill the Christmas miracle in our children’s hearts from a young age.

(Refer to www.santashoebox.com for more info on how to get involved)

Our last social responsibility for the season was to give to those who cannot speak for themselves, look after themselves and are very often forgotten when it comes to charitable causes. All they can do is give big slobbery kisses, and wag tails of appreciation. The Vonkel Vriendinne feels strongly about animals, and has made a commitment to contributing to animal welfare in some way on a more regular basis.

Combining our Vlakte Style Annual Potjiekos Competition with the Vonkel Vriendinne, entrance into the competition consisted of dog food. It was an honor and privilege to donate the dog food to Anti Animal Cruelty League in Bellville. Their appreciation was overwhelming.

(Refer to www.aacl.co.za for more info on how to get involved)

Field: Public Affairs
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster
Date: 12 November 2011

In lieu with recent Diwali celebrations at the end of October, our November gathering was aptly themed “Indian Nights”.

As the Vriendinne arrived; Zahra Punja decorated the hands and feet of the Vriendinne with Henna Tattoos. Henna tattoos are an ancient Mediterranean tradition that forms part of social and holiday celebrations. Henna tattoos are also used in the context of marriage and fertility celebration.

After the Vriendinne had some time to admire their newly acquired body art, Chrystal Simpson from Hip Fusion Belly Dance Studio in Brackenfell started the Vriendinne’s Belly Dancing lesson with a dancing demonstration and history overview.

Belly dancing is actually not an Indian tradition, but comes from Egyptian origin. It was used by Egyptian women to assist in and celebrate child birth. It was only in later years that the Pharaoh’s realized the entertainment aspect of Belly Dancing, and started summonsing women to dance for them. It is now a form of entertainment and exercise mainly associated with the Arabic culture.

With theory out of the way, it was time for action. Chrystal showed us an assortment of moves including things like “the figure 8”, “shimmy”, “hip throws” and much more.

With our coin belts in place we tried to remember the moves as we danced through a couple of songs. After lots of laughter and some serious sweat, the Vriendinne was rewarded with a CD compilation of Indian music and a free Belly Dancing lesson at the Hip Fusion Belly Dance Studio.

Husbands joined the Vriendinne after the lesson, to enjoy an Indian Punjabi Cuisine prepared by Delhi chef Munir Sheikh.

Munir prepared an array of Indian dishes, including Lamb Korma, Butter Chicken, Palak Paneer (a spinach and home made cheese dish), Lentil Curry, and Tikka Chicken served with rice, rotis and poppadoms.

Yet another unforgettable day filled with culture, traditions, education, exercise and amazing food shared with good friends.

Contacts:
Belly Dancing: www.hipfusion.yolasite.com
Henna Tattoos: zahrapunja@yahoo.com
Indian Punjabi Food: sheikhmunir@yahoo.com

Belly dancing lessons. 

Henna tattoos. 

Indian cuisine.

Vonkle Vriendinne.

Field: Arts & Craft
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster
 

On Saturday the 8th of October, the Vriendinne arrived at Elfie’s Kaya, armed with eats, drinks, mosaic tiles, insets, tools, heads full of ideas and much more. Once each Vriendin received their pre ordered base and mirror of choice (within the competition rules and regulations of course), the creative juices started flowing.

With the guidance of our three mosaic experts (Debbie, Judy and Elaine) brought in for the day; the Vriendinne helped one another on best selections of colours and patterns. Mosaic tiles were exchanged amongst Vriendinne as if it was a day at the stock market. Inspiration came with a glass of wine or two…

And then it became silent as each Vriendin started focusing on each owns work of art.

After some broken nails, a finger prick or two and a good couple of breaks, the Vriendinne eventually (after 7 hours of hard work) were amazed by their creations. As the grout was cleaned off, the sparkle of mirror and tiles met the sparkle of excited eyes.

Proud Vriendinne left after another well enjoyed gathering, excited to go show their families what they have achieved…

 Hard at work..............

 Taking a break..........

Field: Agriculture & Horticulture
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster
 

In celebration of Arbor week, the Vriendinne went on an African Safari Tree Planting excursion for their September gathering.

Creative Vriendinne went the extra mile to create the perfect deserts and setting for our Africa Safari Tree Planting day. The Vonkel Vriendinne started with desert!

Stop 1: Desert @ “The Chili Pot”

Debbie went out of her way to create the perfect African venue.

As the Vriendinne arrived, they were decorated with African Face Painting. Her deserts were beyond creative within the theme of the day.

Leopard Ice-Cream from Zululand
Elephant Tusk Malva from Mozambique
Custard Shambock Marula from Kenya

Between having the deserts, the Vriendinne planted Debbie’s Olive tree.

Stop 2: Hoofmaal @ “Die Vlakte”

Juanique het op ‘n meer tradisioneel “Suid-Afrikaanse” Afrika tema besluit. 

Sy het die Vriendinne bederf met:

Mamma Afrika (vet)koeke
Oudtshoorn Vlakte Volstruis Maalvleis
Sahara Tarentaal Hoender Vulsel
Boerbotter en Perske Konfyt
“Springbokkies”

Maar eers was daar ‘n boom te plant! ‘n Palmboom (gekoop in Villiersdorp tydens kongres) was fluks geplant, en ingeseën met ‘n glas wyn. 

Na ete het elke Vriendin ‘n Spekboom en ‘n “Afrika Dansende Vroutjie” ontvang wat in elkeen se tuin die Vonkel Vriendinne sal verteenwoordig. Ons glo dat die boompies sal groei en sterk word nes die Vonkel Vriendinne groei en sterk word.

Stop 3: Starters @ “Koekoes nest”

Olivia welcomed the Vriendinne with a creative custom made welcoming sign into her home.

Her starters took us right back into our Africa theme:

Peri-Peri Chicken Livers
Buffalo Wings

Once again, another unforgettable day!

Field: Education & Culture / Agriculture & Horticulture
Correspondent: Juanique Vorster
 

A sunny Saturday morning awaited the Vriendinne for our educational wine tasting gathering on the 20th of August.

First stop: House of JC le Roux

JC le Roux is well known for their Sparkling Wines we are sure to find at almost any South African wedding. This is really a normal wine injected with CO2.

The less familiar part of their family is the “Methode Cap Classique” (MCC for short) varieties, which is made according to the traditional French process of true champagne. MCC’s that is not produced from grapes out of the Champagne region of France is however not allowed to be called champagne. The MCC process is a complex process of fermentation that happens inside the bottle over a period of 4 to 6 years before it is ready for consumption.

For the consumer; identification of JC Sparkling Wine vs. MCC’s has been made easy by adding a ribbon to the Sparkling Wine varieties.

The Vriendinne had the opportunity to taste the MCC’s and Sparkling Wines, paired with different flavours of marshmallows and meringues to intensify the natural flavours of the drinks.

The visit at JC was ended off with a Sabrage presentation. Sabrage is the technique for opening a Champagne/MCC bottle with a sabre, used for ceremonial occasions.

Second stop: Warwick Wine Estate

The Vriendinne had an interesting tour through the wine cellars. The Sauvignon Blanc double fermentation processes in stainless steel fermentation tanks were explained. We were very surprised to learn that egg white is used as the final filter to produce a clear wine just before bottling.

Warwick is better known for their red varieties, which ferments in imported Oak barrels. These barrels cost anything between R7, 000 and R17, 000 a barrel, and can only be used a few times. Therefore adding to the cost of a good red wine…

After the cellar tour, the Vriendinne were spoiled with a wine tasting paired with a tapas food menu.

To end the day, the Vriendinne were taken through the now barren vineyards since harvest picking is between January and March. The SA Big 5 was used as an analogy to explain the different cultivars and their behaviors. The Cabernet Sauvignon as an example is the Lion, since it is the King if the Vines and the most well know red cultivar.

Much more were learnt and are to be said about our day, which is not possible to explain within limited words.

Champagne tasting and paring at House of JC le Roux.

Sabrage - opening a champagne bottle with a sword called a sabre.

Imported red wine oak barrels in cellar at Warwick Wine Estate cellar tour.

Vriendinne getting ready for the Big 5 Wine Safari at Warwick Wine Estate.