Packed and ready for the AM pickup.  We are off to take a breath and see amazing sights in the bush.  I will now temporarily shed my professional persona and slip into my less intense self.  Well, perhaps some would argue with that shedding concept…. perhaps I should say I will become intense about other things.  I love seeing new places and having an adventure.  I am beyond excited about the next few days.

(Almost ready. Did my clothes grow?)

The four of us arrived at Pilanesberg in the afternoon.  We have safari drives the next couple days.  It will be a welcome non-work couple of days and deeply needed to recharge.  Our accommodations are lovely and are just outside the National Reserve.  The weather cools down significantly at night but the South African sunset never disappoints.

(Sunset at Pilanesberg.)

June 30, 2024

We were ready to leave at 5:30 AM for our first safari drive.  It was a 3-hour experience that began before sunrise.  It is winter here and it felt like it-very chilly.  But I was overwhelmed with the possibility of seeing the bush and all its natural wonders. The vehicle was not full which allowed me to move from side to side to get photos of animals and landscapes.  The very first sighting was still in the dark, a giraffe.  Our driver was not very helpful but one of the other passengers was a seasoned expert about the bush.  I soon acted like family so I could be close to the intel about everything including animals, birds, plants, and climate.  She was an excellent volunteer tour guide though I never quite caught her name.  Mind you she told me but again, a different form of English than I can readily interpret. 

(Giraffe before dawn.)                                             

(Cheetah mom and twins.)

(Elephant family.)

I can only reflect on the numerous gifts I have received along my CVI journey.  This trip to Pilanesberg is certainly among them.  I am beyond grateful.

CVI Workshop 2024 Agenda Week 1

CVI Workshop 2024 Agenda Week 2