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Thu, Nov 21st, 2013

OUR 2013 AFRICAN EXPEDITION

AFRICA! -It's very name connotes an epic journey!

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A F R I C A -it's very name connotes an epic journey.
A F R I C A -it's very name connotes an epic journey.
Even after years of planning and experience in Africa, we never know what Africa has in store for us this time. Therein, lies the essence of our adventure.
A F R I C A -it's very name connotes an epic journey.
A F R I C A !
A F R I C A !
WE WONDER WHAT ADVENTURES AWAIT US IN THE WEEKS AHEAD?
A F R I C A !
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
Our journey begins in Cape Town,at the southern tip of the African continent where wildlife roamed freely until the Europeons arrived. We have a good team of friends with varied talents and backgrounds. Inevitably we will become even better friends .
Cape Town, South Africa
The District 6 Museum
The District 6 Museum
One of the most interesting historic sites we visited in Cape Town was this museum dedicated to an area of Cape Town that was leveled by the apartheid government despite the protests of the folks who had been living there for years-to make room for whites
The District 6 Museum
Hundreds of
Hundreds of" colored" South Africans were moved from their family homes
For us, this museum put a human face on the horrors of apartheid.The words and poems of the displaced people tugged at our hearts. Despite that era, South Africans are moving on and not looking back..
Hundreds of" colored" South Africans were moved from their family homes
These signs were posted throughout South Africa and restricted life for
These signs were posted throughout South Africa and restricted life for "non-whites"
Although apartheid began as a method of reducing conflicts between tribes- over the years, it morphed into a tragic chapter in South Africa's history. District 6 was an example of "relocation" practices.
These signs were posted throughout South Africa and restricted life for "non-whites"
Another sign of those tragic times
Another sign of those tragic times
While in the museum, I overheard a black South African explaining to some visiting friends something I didn't notice on thepreserved signs.She said,"in life-even on signage,only the white people were referred to as" persons"!-Note the previous sign .
Another sign of those tragic times
Eating South African food and learning its history while overlooking the city
Eating South African food and learning its history while overlooking the city
Through Our old friend and guide,Steve Bolnick, we were invited to a private sampling of Capetown cuisine developed during the rich history of Cape Town. The owner was a historian and offered interesting personal insights.
Eating South African food and learning its history while overlooking the city
The view from table Mountain
The view from table Mountain
During the days we were in Cape Town, we hiked on table Mountain,visited the famous "green Market",learned it's history,watched craftsmen make beaded art,visited a penguin colony ,dined at waterfront restaurants,shopped ,and explored the Cape.
The view from table Mountain
Visiting the Cheetah Outreach Center
Visiting the Cheetah Outreach Center
We had a wonderful opportunity to interact with several endangered species as well as cheetahs at the outreach center.On the way, We also learned about the "townships " and their history.
Visiting the Cheetah Outreach Center
Cheetahs- one of the most endangered species on the planet
Cheetahs- one of the most endangered species on the planet
Cheetahs bred at this facility are helping to bring cheetahs back from the brink of extinction. We support this facility and others,like the Devildt Cheetah Center, that seek to preserve this important species.
Cheetahs- one of the most endangered species on the planet
Anatolian Sheep Dogs
Anatolian Sheep Dogs
These dogs may be the answer to preserving cheetahs. Given to sheep and cattle ranchers, they will protect flocks from cheetahs, allowing them to coexist in the same area.
Anatolian Sheep Dogs
Flowers were in bloom everywhere-the Cape is known as
Flowers were in bloom everywhere-the Cape is known as "the flower basket of the world"
The southern 60 miles of the African continent(The Cape Region) constitutes a plant kingdom of its own. For example, one of the other 6 plant kingdoms on the planet encompasses all of North America and Europe!
Flowers were in bloom everywhere-the Cape is known as "the flower basket of the world"
The Protea-South Africa's national flower
The Protea-South Africa's national flower
Over 3000 species of plant life squeezed into an area smaller than Rhode Island!
The Protea-South Africa's national flower
The Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope
Of course we explored the historic tip of Africa and had a wonderful luncheon at the Two Oceans Restaurant overlooking the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans.
The Cape of Good Hope
Stellenbosch Town,one of the oldest towns in South Africa
Stellenbosch Town,one of the oldest towns in South Africa
Dorp street is a center for Leather and South African goods-wonderful shopping! It is the center for wine production in the area as well.
Stellenbosch Town,one of the oldest towns in South Africa
One of the most beautiful outdoor art galleries in the world
One of the most beautiful outdoor art galleries in the world
We visited the famous gallery of sculptor Dylan Lewis set in the mountains overlooking the vineyards of South Africa.
One of the most beautiful outdoor art galleries in the world
Sharing Dylan's art with our friends was wonderful and learning the
Sharing Dylan's art with our friends was wonderful and learning the "inside scoop" on Cape life was fascinating
Our old friend Steve introduced us to the Cape and it's most interesting facets.Elements only a "local" would know about.Being a wine maker and Enologist himself helped also. himself
Sharing Dylan's art with our friends was wonderful and learning the "inside scoop" on Cape life was fascinating
Dylan's remarkable works
Dylan's remarkable works
Dylan is world renown for his depiction of wildlife in bronze.It was humbling to visit his studio.He began as a wildlife ranger in Hwangwe National park in Zimbabwe.
Dylan's remarkable works
The Wine estates of Stark Conde'
The Wine estates of Stark Conde'
One of the high points of our visit was visiting the South African wine country and sampling its fine wines and gourmet food. These are some of the oldest vinyards in the world.
The Wine estates of Stark Conde'
Nordhoek Beach-Where we exchanged our vows
Nordhoek Beach-Where we exchanged our vows
No one knew we had planned to get married while on this trip- so it was quite a surprise when we suddenly asked our friends to play the wedding March on kazoos during our beach ride.
Nordhoek Beach-Where we exchanged our vows
A beautiful day for a beach wedding
A beautiful day for a beach wedding
It was the proverbial ,windswept,African beach. A mix of sunny warmth,fast moving clouds,salt spray ,stormy horizons and romance,sort of like a marriage!
A beautiful day for a beach wedding
Holding hands and saying our vows
Holding hands and saying our vows
It was quite romantic with the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean behind us. We used the traditional Zulu ceremony since we were back in Africa where we 1st met.
Holding hands and saying our vows
I become her
I become her "warrior"
it was a quick ceremony as we knew the horses would only cooperate briefly-so with bubbles floating by and Kazoos humming-we said our vows....
I become her "warrior"
Later ,at our wedding banquet
Later ,at our wedding banquet
Our old friend Steve, had set up an incredible dinner with wonderful South African Champagne,wine and cuisine.
Later ,at our wedding banquet
The violinists were a nice touch
The violinists were a nice touch
The violinists were a nice touch
WE even had a
WE even had a "traditional" wedding cake
Well ,err, perhaps not so "traditional"- Oso,Maya and Stella were represented on the cake since they couln't attend.
WE even had a "traditional" wedding cake
It was a simple but heartfelt evening
It was a simple but heartfelt evening
We enjoyed an incredible meal among new and old friends.
It was a simple but heartfelt evening
After quite a Wedding day....
After quite a Wedding day....
Quite a wedding day, The morning touring Beautiful vinyards,visiting a famous South African Sculptor,luncheon in the mountains,and horseback riding on a long,windswept Indian Ocean beach!
After quite a Wedding day....
Grasslands Lodge in the Kalahari Desert-an oasis of comfort far from civilization!
Grasslands Lodge in the Kalahari Desert-an oasis of comfort far from civilization!
We left the cool,green,wet fertile Cape region and flew 1500 miles to the north, to the dry, barren,remote desert of Botswana.From a crowded city to deserted bush.Quite a contrast!
Grasslands Lodge in the Kalahari Desert-an oasis of comfort far from civilization!
Our old friend,Eluan who manages Grasslands
Our old friend,Eluan who manages Grasslands
Eluan, acted as our interpreter with the local bushmen tribe and and introduced us to their" Predator Project" - which involves conditioning problem lions to not eat cattle."
Our old friend,Eluan who manages Grasslands
Exploring the desert world of the San bushman
Exploring the desert world of the San bushman
We spent several hours in the Bush learning how the bushman find water, food, and subsidence in one of the most arid regions on the planet. It was fun to see the exchange of cultures between our group and the bushman.
Exploring the desert world of the San bushman
Beginning our
Beginning our"ART FOR ANIMALS" program with a primative "Bushman" tribe
Using our" art for animals" poster, and art supplies we brought with us for each child, we taught the importance of wildlife conservation while demonstrating how to draw endangered animals.
Beginning our"ART FOR ANIMALS" program with a primative "Bushman" tribe
Joining creativity with conservation,setting up in the desert bush on old doors and stumps
Joining creativity with conservation,setting up in the desert bush on old doors and stumps
Even the adult bushmen sat in on the lessons and commented on the disappearance of wildlife in their lives. So-Here we are in the Kalahari desert ,teaching art to the people who probably painted the first art on cave walls 3000 years ago!
Joining creativity with conservation,setting up in the desert bush on old doors and stumps
It was an incredible experience!
It was an incredible experience!
The San kids were very shy at 1st but showed real talent. No one had ever given them the opportunity to express themselves through art before.
It was an incredible experience!
The Bushman Kids were so enthusiastic
The Bushman Kids were so enthusiastic
It was a small beginning ,but if I can influence one child to speak to his parents, neighbors or friends about how important it is to protect wildlife and the unique habitat they require ,or just save one animal ,it will all be worthwhile!
The Bushman Kids were so enthusiastic
The Bushmen were happy to see their next generation learning about conservation
The Bushmen were happy to see their next generation learning about conservation
This woman was so sweet, she hugged us and gave us a thumbs up for our efforts to educate her grandkids.We explained to them that there are many forms of" art". One rare form of art is the dances that they passed from one generation to the next.
The Bushmen were happy to see their next generation learning about conservation
Hangin' with the bushman
Hangin' with the bushman
During our day with the bushman, they taught us their way of life. We learned how they hunt and even played their games with them.( Although we weren't very good)
Hangin' with the bushman
At The grasslands
At The grasslands"pan"
Each night we sat around the fire and watched the animals come into drink from the" pan" directly in front of our Lodge. Sipping drinks underneath the starry sky and waiting to see what animals show up was quite a thrill!
At The grasslands"pan"
Johnny bartering his knife for a handcarved walking stick
Johnny bartering his knife for a handcarved walking stick
This will be a valued keepsake from this tribal elder.
Johnny bartering his knife for a handcarved walking stick
Watching the wild dogs feed.
Watching the wild dogs feed.
One of the greatest aspects of Grasslands Lodge is their breeding program for endangered wild dogs.The experience of standing just a few feet from the pack tearing into a carcass was hard to describe.t
Watching the wild dogs feed.
Sharing a moment with the chief
Sharing a moment with the chief
I drew a lion on the hand of this old bushman and he told me he would cherish it as long as he could.
Sharing a moment with the chief
It was heartwarming to be so appreciated.
It was heartwarming to be so appreciated.
After our ART FOR ANIMALS class, the bushman told us they were looking forward to sharing their art, their dances and their heritage with our group.p
It was heartwarming to be so appreciated.
The Shaman starts the dance.
The Shaman starts the dance.
Slowly, the bushman prepared their ritual dances for us.
The Shaman starts the dance.
The bushman share their magic with us
The bushman share their magic with us
As we watched, bushmen performed the ritual dances just as they had for thousands of years before europeons arrived. They represent the oldest civilization on the planet still in existence. As we watched, they took us back to a time before civilization.
The bushman share their magic with us
Open hearts, the tribe welcomed us with smiles and hugs
Open hearts, the tribe welcomed us with smiles and hugs
Open hearts, the tribe welcomed us with smiles and hugs
As they danced, the woman clapped and sang
As they danced, the woman clapped and sang
We were entranced as the men danced, stomping their feet, and chanting around us. This is exactly as Stanley Livingstone would've experienced it 100 years ago!
As they danced, the woman clapped and sang
The roar of lions in the background was a constant reminder of their power
The roar of lions in the background was a constant reminder of their power
Each night as the orange sun sank below the horizon or rose in the east, we were serenaded by the roaring of lions only a stones throw from our lodges- all adding to the magic of Grasslands Lodge..
The roar of lions in the background was a constant reminder of their power
Belle,Our interpreter
Belle,Our interpreter
Belle Was the only bushmen that had ever visited the outside world. He was also an expert in bushman heritage and ritual lore.o
Belle,Our interpreter
The hunting ritual dance
The hunting ritual dance
They finished with the hunting ritual dance which portrays the hunt and killing of a kudu.
The hunting ritual dance
A final photo with our new friends
A final photo with our new friends
After exchanging fabrics, kazoos and gifts we got together for one last photograph.
A final photo with our new friends
Already looking forward to next year!
Already looking forward to next year!
One last photograph with the elders of the tribe. This was one of the most memorable and heartwarming days we have ever spent in Africa!
Already looking forward to next year!
Our final surprise
Our final surprise
Just before we left,Eluan had a surprise for us.He took us into the conditioning area to feed the lions. These lions are part of the predator project- they are fed treated cattle meat that will make them sick and untreated game.
Our final surprise
The Lions smelled dinner
The Lions smelled dinner
After conditioning, these Lions will not eat cattle and can be released back into areas they had been removed from before. they will even train their offspring not to eat cattle.
The Lions smelled dinner
Sketching wild dogs
Sketching wild dogs
I can't get any closer to my" models" than this!
Sketching wild dogs
We watched as the Lions attacked the carcasses
We watched as the Lions attacked the carcasses
We watched as the Lions attacked the carcasses
Amid the confusion, there was symmetry!
Amid the confusion, there was symmetry!
Amid the confusion, there was symmetry!
Hard to believe these were the same animals that were so docile hours before
Hard to believe these were the same animals that were so docile hours before
Hard to believe these were the same animals that were so docile hours before
Beautiful girl.
Beautiful girl.
An exquisite natural beauty- no bad angles at all.
Beautiful girl.
But menacing and deadly!
But menacing and deadly!
But menacing and deadly!
Unforgettable strength.
Unforgettable strength.
Capable of loving nudges, as well as getting the groceries.
Unforgettable strength.
No one would have thought that they could ever be in trouble...
No one would have thought that they could ever be in trouble...
Lions are showing an alarming drop in population, due to poisoning, loss of habitat, and shared animal diseases.
No one would have thought that they could ever be in trouble...
Leaving Grasslands on our Chartered plane.
Leaving Grasslands on our Chartered plane.
Flying from camp to camp was the only way to cover 2500 miles in only 15 days
Leaving Grasslands on our Chartered plane.
We then flew on to the Okavango Delta
We then flew on to the Okavango Delta
We stayed at Little Vumbura Camp, situated on a small island in the largest inland delta system on the planet. surrounded by water in the middle of one of the driest areas on earth was quite unique.We could explore by land rover, boat ,mokorro or on foot
We then flew on to the Okavango Delta
Little Vumbura camp-Okavango Delta
Little Vumbura camp-Okavango Delta
What a wonderful little island lodge-only 6 rooms. Sitting around the firepit at night was magic! We could have stayed there for weeks.Warm, friendly staff,great food and so much wildlife everywhere!
Little Vumbura camp-Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta Is home to one of the largest wildlife populations in Africa.
The Okavango Delta Is home to one of the largest wildlife populations in Africa.
We spent our days watching wildlife from boats or Land Rovers.
The Okavango Delta Is home to one of the largest wildlife populations in Africa.
The bird life was awesome
The bird life was awesome
The Okavango has hundreds of species of beautiful birds
The bird life was awesome
While the boys fished for Nembwe and Tiger fish
While the boys fished for Nembwe and Tiger fish
While the boys fished for Nembwe and Tiger fish
The fishing was great in the Okavango River
The fishing was great in the Okavango River
Nembwe Are beautiful iridescent green and put up quite a fight
The fishing was great in the Okavango River
We explored the delta by native Mokoro (dugout canoe)
We explored the delta by native Mokoro (dugout canoe)
We explored the delta by native Mokoro (dugout canoe)
The sunsets were Beautiful!
The sunsets were Beautiful!
The sunsets were Beautiful!
On our drives- we never knew what we would see
On our drives- we never knew what we would see
We saw Cape buffalo,elephants, Antelope, hippo, giraffe, and impala, warthogs, zebra, and the list goes on....
On our drives- we never knew what we would see
A mother protecting her baby
A mother protecting her baby
A mother protecting her baby
We loved the birdlife !
We loved the birdlife !
Hornbills are also called "flying chili peppers" owing to the vivid red of their beaks.
We loved the birdlife !
Him watching us, watching him, watching us...
Him watching us, watching him, watching us...
Him watching us, watching him, watching us...
Elephant buddies playing
Elephant buddies playing
Elephant buddies playing
If only I could read the thoughts behind this penetrating gaze....
If only I could read the thoughts behind this penetrating gaze....
If only I could read the thoughts behind this penetrating gaze....
A special treat
A special treat
Leopards are extremely secretive and rare. We were lucky enough to follow this leopard hunting and then resting in a shady tree.
A special treat
As he climbed, he kept a wary eye on us- just in case!
As he climbed, he kept a wary eye on us- just in case!
As he climbed, he kept a wary eye on us- just in case!
He was young and unsure whether we were a threat
He was young and unsure whether we were a threat
He was young and unsure whether we were a threat
One of natures most powerful and beautiful beasts
One of natures most powerful and beautiful beasts
One of natures most powerful and beautiful beasts
After a while, he relaxed
After a while, he relaxed
After a while, he relaxed
With his eyes closed - we were able to study his beautiful markings
With his eyes closed - we were able to study his beautiful markings
With his eyes closed - we were able to study his beautiful markings
Sundowners on the Okavango Delta
Sundowners on the Okavango Delta
Each sunset, we stopped and had drinks( usually the proverbial gin and tonic) as we listened to the sounds of the Bush and watch the sun slowly sink in the orange sky.
Sundowners on the Okavango Delta
Our last night we were treated to dinner in the Bush!
Our last night we were treated to dinner in the Bush!
There are few experiences which can equal a gourmet dinner set in a clearing far from any civilization and illuminated only by kerosene lanterns. With the stars overhead, and the sounds of the Bush around you, it is quintessentially AFRICA!
Our last night we were treated to dinner in the Bush!
DUMA TAU- roar of the lion
DUMA TAU- roar of the lion
Next we flew to Duma Tau camp- one of the most luxurious and game rich camps in Africa.
DUMA TAU- roar of the lion
Even the birdlife here was amazing
Even the birdlife here was amazing
Even the birdlife here was amazing
Duma Tau was very comfortable and warm
Duma Tau was very comfortable and warm
Duma Tau was very comfortable and warm
Elephants and wild life everywhere
Elephants and wild life everywhere
This curious bull got his smelling apparatus within a couple of feet before he backed off
Elephants and wild life everywhere
Bee-eaters
Bee-eaters
These birds were beautiful singly or in pairs
Bee-eaters
By the hundreds- they were incredible!
By the hundreds- they were incredible!
By the hundreds- they were incredible!
Fishing in the Savuti channel was incredible!
Fishing in the Savuti channel was incredible!
Sure we caught fish and that was fun, but if you look in the background on this photograph you will see elephants swimming across our stern. One evening we counted 26 elephants swimming by. Of course, sipping gin and tonic while fishing is fun too!
Fishing in the Savuti channel was incredible!
Those trunks come in handy as snorkels- even the baby gets pushed along by the adults.
Those trunks come in handy as snorkels- even the baby gets pushed along by the adults.
Those trunks come in handy as snorkels- even the baby gets pushed along by the adults.
This guy didn't like us fishing in his private pool!
This guy didn't like us fishing in his private pool!
This guy didn't like us fishing in his private pool!
We tracked these Lions for an hour before we found them hidden in the tall grass
We tracked these Lions for an hour before we found them hidden in the tall grass
We tracked these Lions for an hour before we found them hidden in the tall grass
Then they decided to track us for a bit!
Then they decided to track us for a bit!
Then they decided to track us for a bit!
This pair of young males was orphaned at an early age
This pair of young males was orphaned at an early age
This pair of young males was orphaned at an early age
Lions usually hunt at night and sleep during the day
Lions usually hunt at night and sleep during the day
Lions usually hunt at night and sleep during the day
This baby zebra was well protected by the adults
This baby zebra was well protected by the adults
This baby zebra was well protected by the adults
Even baby elephants are susceptible to line attack
Even baby elephants are susceptible to line attack
This young elephant was well protected by his aunts and uncles
Even baby elephants are susceptible to line attack
When we weren't watching wildlife, we fished..
When we weren't watching wildlife, we fished..
When we weren't watching wildlife, we fished..
trying to avoid hooking
trying to avoid hooking "the big one"
trying to avoid hooking "the big one"
Steve won the biggest fish pot by hooking this big Pike
Steve won the biggest fish pot by hooking this big Pike
Steve won the biggest fish pot by hooking this big Pike
Red Lechwe antelope running through the shallows.
Red Lechwe antelope running through the shallows.
Red Lechwe antelope running through the shallows.
An eagle watching for dinner
An eagle watching for dinner
An eagle watching for dinner
Beautiful!
Beautiful!
Beautiful!
Hmm, this looks like a future piece-I love the baby in tow...
Hmm, this looks like a future piece-I love the baby in tow...
Hmm, this looks like a future piece-I love the baby in tow...
This young Bull was in
This young Bull was in "Musk' and charged us !
This young Bull was in "Musk' and charged us !
Dinner under the stars at the Duma Tau Boma
Dinner under the stars at the Duma Tau Boma
WE were treated to a night of singing, and dancing by the staff singing local tribal songs. We all joined in and danced and laughed with them.It was so much fun to share that joy with them.
Dinner under the stars at the Duma Tau Boma
On the final leg of our Journey,Victoria Falls
On the final leg of our Journey,Victoria Falls
This hotel is classic. it's the same hotel the Queen stays in when she comes to Victoria Falls. It was built well over 100 years ago and its hallways are steeped in history.
On the final leg of our Journey,Victoria Falls
No lawnmowers needed!
No lawnmowers needed!
Wild Warthogs effectively keep the grass well trimmed for the formal lawns here
No lawnmowers needed!
The magnificent Victoria Falls
The magnificent Victoria Falls
This year the Zambezi River was as low as it's been in the last 50 years, so the falls were not as wide as was seen in the past.
The magnificent Victoria Falls
Jubalani School-Begun 3 years ago by a local woman who dreamt of a place where local kids to go to school.
Jubalani School-Begun 3 years ago by a local woman who dreamt of a place where local kids to go to school.
Jubalani Means" happy children" and, although quite primitive by American standards, is offering an education to children who would not have one otherwise. here is where we will start our" art for animals" program.
Jubalani School-Begun 3 years ago by a local woman who dreamt of a place where local kids to go to school.
Since the school has only 2 classrooms made from mud and thatch- classes are taught outside under trees
Since the school has only 2 classrooms made from mud and thatch- classes are taught outside under trees
Since the school has only 2 classrooms made from mud and thatch- classes are taught outside under trees
Our art class- under the trees
Our art class- under the trees
Since we couldn't meaningfully teach all 345 students- the teachers held an art competition and the 33 top finalists got to participate in our program. they were very well behaved and appreciative of my talents.
Our art class- under the trees
Our teaching team
Our teaching team
As I spoke to the kids about drawing technique and animal biology, Jim got the kids to loosen up by drawing with them . As we drew , he helped the kids understand the importance of these endangered species to their heritage and their future.
Our teaching team
We left several pieces of my art as inspiration.
We left several pieces of my art as inspiration.
By seeing what I did, using the same techniques I demonstrated- we hope they will be inspired with their own ability to both draw and protect wildlife. WE mounted everything on vinyl banner material so it would last in the bush.
We left several pieces of my art as inspiration.
One of our 2
One of our 2" ART FOR ANIMALS" classes
We taught 2 classes of 16, and we were amazed at how good the kids were. you can see from the art they're holding up that there were some definite talent in the group. I have great hopes that we have made a difference in their lives.
One of our 2" ART FOR ANIMALS" classes
Getting to know the kids
Getting to know the kids
Each member of our group was escorted through a tour of the school by some of the older children. getting to know these kids and their aspirations was interesting and heartwarming
Getting to know the kids
I was honored to have their rapt attention
I was honored to have their rapt attention
We wrote lesson plans for the teachers to carry on the program after we left. Who knows what famous African Artist or Champion of Wildlife I am influencing? I have confidence and high hopes for these kids.
I was honored to have their rapt attention
This is Sefiwe Nd'lovu, the inspirational woman who started the school in 2003 in a borrowed tent with 3 children in her hut.
This is Sefiwe Nd'lovu, the inspirational woman who started the school in 2003 in a borrowed tent with 3 children in her hut.
Sue Gotherd, wilderness safaris representative and I are in awe of the energy and dedication it took to start the school which now provides basic education to 345 students.
This is Sefiwe Nd'lovu, the inspirational woman who started the school in 2003 in a borrowed tent with 3 children in her hut.
We were sad to leave Jubalani as we waved goodbye to the students
We were sad to leave Jubalani as we waved goodbye to the students
We were sad to leave Jubalani as we waved goodbye to the students
The kids were so cute and appreciative
The kids were so cute and appreciative
We brought 200 drawing kits for the school and paper. these kids barely had the basics to learn with, but their spirit and hunger for learning will pull them through.
The kids were so cute and appreciative
I wanted to take these kids home with me
I wanted to take these kids home with me
I wanted to take these kids home with me
A visit to the chief
A visit to the chief
We visited the village chief that supports Jubalani school and left him a piece of artwork to encourage his continued support. we got a chance to tour the village and see what everydaylife was like in a typical Zimbabwean village
A visit to the chief
I got to help finish the plasterwork on the Chiefs hut
I got to help finish the plasterwork on the Chiefs hut
The women of the village showed us how they grind corn and Maize, pump water from the well and care for their animals. most of the time is taken up just providing basic necessities for their family.
I got to help finish the plasterwork on the Chiefs hut
The village chiefs living room- mud walls, thatch roof but cool and comfortable inside
The village chiefs living room- mud walls, thatch roof but cool and comfortable inside
The village chiefs living room- mud walls, thatch roof but cool and comfortable inside
The St Rose orphanage
The St Rose orphanage
We even managed to squeeze in a visit to the orphanage which is always one of our favorite places.
The St Rose orphanage
We danced and sang and played kazoos together
We danced and sang and played kazoos together
The kids were overjoyed to see us again and receive kazoos. we took turns playing our national anthems and of course" jingle bells". it was great fun"
We danced and sang and played kazoos together
As we drove off they were laughing, singing and playing songs on the new kazoos
As we drove off they were laughing, singing and playing songs on the new kazoos
As we drove off they were laughing, singing and playing songs on the new kazoos
We spent the next day canoeing on the Zambezi
We spent the next day canoeing on the Zambezi
We enjoy a day on the mighty Zambezi, running rapids and fishing for tiger fish. Jim caught a small one and Steve hooked a large one that got away
We spent the next day canoeing on the Zambezi
Hippo were everywhere and quite dangerous
Hippo were everywhere and quite dangerous
There had been several Hippo attacks on boats with the low water concentrating them and making them even more territorial
Hippo were everywhere and quite dangerous
Seeing black rhinos at the Livingston game reserve
Seeing black rhinos at the Livingston game reserve
We saw a family of black rhinos before our elephant back Safari. They are incredibly endangered and exist now only in heavily protected areas fenced and constantly guarded by patrols. Each year we visit it becomes harder and harder to find black rhinos
Seeing black rhinos at the Livingston game reserve
These animals are so incredible- I can't believe they are being slaughtered for their horns
These animals are so incredible- I can't believe they are being slaughtered for their horns
Poachers even kill rhinos that have had their horns removed so they don't waste time tracking a hornless rhino. all because Asians believe the powdered horn has magical powers.
These animals are so incredible- I can't believe they are being slaughtered for their horns
Spotting game from elephant back was quite a thrill
Spotting game from elephant back was quite a thrill
Spotting game from elephant back was quite a thrill
It was a beautiful day to ride elephants and learn about their habits
It was a beautiful day to ride elephants and learn about their habits
It was a beautiful day to ride elephants and learn about their habits
Getting to interact with these magnificent beasts is always one of my favorite things
Getting to interact with these magnificent beasts is always one of my favorite things
Getting to interact with these magnificent beasts is always one of my favorite things
Shopping in Victoria falls
Shopping in Victoria falls
Because of the economy in Zimbabwe, there are incredible bargains on everything from jewelry to woodcarvings. Of course, you have to negotiate and bargain for everything.
Shopping in Victoria falls
We finished our stay at Victoria Falls with the beautiful sunset river cruise.
We finished our stay at Victoria Falls with the beautiful sunset river cruise.
We finished our stay at Victoria Falls with the beautiful sunset river cruise.
Cruising the Zambezi at sunset on our private boat
Cruising the Zambezi at sunset on our private boat
It was a nice ending to our time in Victoria Falls- watching elephants on the riverbank as we cruised along among the hippos
Cruising the Zambezi at sunset on our private boat
Our last dinner in Victoria Falls at the
Our last dinner in Victoria Falls at the "BOMA"
Dinner at the Boma is a chance to dance with the Zulus and watch them demonstrate their tribal dances as well as eat authentic Shona and Zulu foods. everything from warthog to Impala and even Mopani worms ( a local delicacy)
Our last dinner in Victoria Falls at the "BOMA"
Pat Didn't miss a thing on this Safari
Pat Didn't miss a thing on this Safari
Pat Did every activity, and zip lined the gorge AND was the only one to join Jim in trying Mopani Worms. from the look on her face, they were not her favorite item on the menu
Pat Didn't miss a thing on this Safari
Our last dinner together
Our last dinner together
We spent our last night together in Johannesburg, sitting around a table under the stars eating the finest South African cuisine paired with wonderful South African wines. it was a fitting end to an incredible 2 weeks of adventures together.
Our last dinner together
Honeymooning after our friends left, on the African coast near Mozambique
Honeymooning after our friends left, on the African coast near Mozambique
We squeezed in a few days of relaxation on the deserted east coast of Africa. 40 miles to the nearest paved road and almost 100 miles in each direction of nothing but sand and the relentless Indian Ocean surf. We snorkled in the rock pools, and relaxed
Honeymooning after our friends left, on the African coast near Mozambique
Each night we walked the beach and watched the huge loggerhead turtles coming in to lay their eggs
Each night we walked the beach and watched the huge loggerhead turtles coming in to lay their eggs
Hundreds of loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles lay their eggs along the speech each year. these are the largest sand dunes in the world- many over 300 feet high.
Each night we walked the beach and watched the huge loggerhead turtles coming in to lay their eggs
An Indian Ocean sunrise from our room
An Indian Ocean sunrise from our room
An Indian Ocean sunrise from our room
After our honeymoon we flew back from Durban to Johannesburg
After our honeymoon we flew back from Durban to Johannesburg
We became friends with Otti and Zelda ,the owners of the Africa rock Hotel. Zelda is also an artist, and Otti was a general contractor so we have a lot in common.
After our honeymoon we flew back from Durban to Johannesburg
Otti and Zelda Did an incredible job in the design of the hotel
Otti and Zelda Did an incredible job in the design of the hotel
They were kind enough to show us around Johannesburg. we visited the art district and also met some incredible artists at the Sunday market
Otti and Zelda Did an incredible job in the design of the hotel
One of their friends had done some incredible sconces and lamps for the hotel
One of their friends had done some incredible sconces and lamps for the hotel
We bought some beautiful lamps and look forward to visiting him again next year
One of their friends had done some incredible sconces and lamps for the hotel
We had a wonderful time with our new friends in Johannesburg
We had a wonderful time with our new friends in Johannesburg
We are looking forward to seeing Otti and Zelda when we return to Johannesburg next year. one of the joys of travel is meeting new friends like them. We loved our stay at AFRICA ROCK HOTEL
We had a wonderful time with our new friends in Johannesburg
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