A 21st ‘opskop’ to remember – even if it was online

I know I had a 21st birthday party, but it was so long ago the details are hazy.

There was good food, good music and a good supply of alcohol, of that I am sure, and many of my good mates were there to celebrate with me, as were members of my family.

But memories fade with age…

On Tuesday, my “baby” daughter Jordyn turned 21.

She had spent many months planning a real opskop before the Covid-19 lockdown put paid to any thoughts of a party.

Being an extrovert with a wide circle of friends, many of whom would have been there for her big day, she was understandably upset.

It was difficult for me, too, to not be able to celebrate the milestone with her, but we did manage to hook up on Tuesday evening via Zoom, an online video/chat programme.

Jordyn was at home with her mother and stepfather and once we (her sisters and their better halves, me and my missus and my stepdaughter and her partner) got connected, it was obvious she was making the most of the situation.

Having grown up in the age of typewriters and Tipp-Ex, I am a bit of a techno retard.

At first I could see everyone on screen, but I had no sound. Then they disappeared and the sound came on.

When I finally thought I had got it right, my microphone and speaker started muting every couple of minutes, much to the amusement of the rest of the family.

I had some choice words for my laptop and I hope I was muted and the kids couldn’t hear me.

If they could, I’m glad my grandkids weren’t included in the video get-together.

I did manage to get things working for long enough to join in as everyone sang Happy Birthday to Jordyn – and her reaction illustrated just how special the moment was for her.

There were a few teary eyes and lumps in throats – including mine – but it was one of those experiences that was worth all the connection frustrations.

No one knows for sure how long this lockdown will last but if it is still in force by the time Jordyn’s next birthday rolls around, I’m writing her a letter and posting it.

One thing I am certain of is, unlike me, Jordyn will never forget her 21st.

Guy Hawthorne.

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