This afternoon we had the opportunity to participate in a traditional Masai wedding. The couple, Andy and Leah, have already been married in the U.S. but had been given the opportunity to have a Masai wedding as well. The wedding took place out in Olasiti, a boma about 2 hours away from our campus. This is the same boma that will be raising the cattle and goats that we purchased in the market a few days ago.
The outfit I'm wearing is made from a traditional Masai cloth called a "chukka". When looking through the market a few days ago, this one stood out to me because it looked authentic. Well, I was right about it being authentic, but there was a catch...It turns out that this is the chukka that the old men in the tribe wear...oops! I got a couple laughs from the children and teenagers out in the boma for dressing like an elder.
The jewelry that I'm wearing is both new and old. The circular necklace and cross body beads I purchased on this trip, but the beautiful beaded sash was my grandmother's. It was given to her as a gift many years ago from a Masai woman. The sash symbolizes celebration for special occasions.
The jewelry that I'm wearing is both new and old. The circular necklace and cross body beads I purchased on this trip, but the beautiful beaded sash was my grandmother's. It was given to her as a gift many years ago from a Masai woman. The sash symbolizes celebration for special occasions.
The picture above was taken right before we began the ceremonial dance. Two by two or three by three, groups of women jump forward while chanting. It was so cool to be a part of! The picture to the right was taken during the blessing of the cattle. The little boy with his arm around me is named Dion. We became buds for the day, he did not leave my side! |
The bride and groom. Way cooler than American wedding clothes!
As a Masai tradition, the men present themselves in front of the women and display their jumping skills. The man who jumps the highest is considered the most attractive and is said to draw in the most attention from the women.
Learning how to make fire in the boma! It's essential to their survival out there.
This is what a house looks like in the boma. The manyatta (house) is made of cow dung and sticks. The mamas spend countless hours building and perfecting their homes and take great pride in them. Last year, I had the opportunity to go inside of one. Needless to say, it did not smell great! But you get used to it.
After the wedding ceremony, we followed the chief out to the "dining room". The men had prepared a delicious meal of rice, vegetables, bread, and the goat they had slaughtered earlier. It was my first time eating goat...Don't think I'll be eating it again but I'm glad I tried it!
The chief's father, Moses, is the oldest man in the boma at 90 years old. It was such an honor to have him bless me. I had no idea what he was saying, but it was an awesome experience, one that I will never forget.
Casual lion spotting on the way home. This gal was perched up on top of the road sign on display.