( GAPS ) POTN Safari around South/West Africa - journal

[tommykjensen]

Soon the POTN Africa expedition leaves for Namibia & Botswana.

There are

http://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/d/4;10402;126/st/20070826/e/POTN+AFRICA+TRIP/k/a1fb/event.png


If we get internet access during the expedition we will use this thread to make updates.


The thread will be locked until we have updates from our expedition :D


Stay tuned :lol:






ps I stuck it only so we can find it easily when we are on the road. If we are on via cell phone we done want to use ages to find this thread.

[tommykjensen]

Day 1 of the POTN African Safari.

Well it is real. We are all here now safe and sound. Jake first need to go buy loads of sunscreen since all the bags were lost somewhere between Johannesburg and Windhoek. But they should arrive today.

We all did take some photos this morning. The Hotel Pension Steiner where we are staying have a small garden with lots birds. So Jake was almost in heaven :lol:

But since this update is done from a public internetcafe we won't be posting photos at this time. Hopefully we can post some at a later time.

[CyberDyneSystems]

WE"RE HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


I'm freaking OUT!

Wow, I saw my first african sunset, ..
were all getting aling famously, and just can't beiliv were here.

Have to run. I'm on PAtricks Internet time

[holland_patrick]

Now I get a chance..


dam mods control everything....


at least they are moding each other in thier own room.....

The flight was long and we are now tooling around in Pat's truck.. Photo's soon to fallow.. next internet cafe...

[saravrose]

Wow! were here.. not without some fears and a couple of concerns.. the most recent being that Jake an my luggage has not arrived.. Grocery shopping was an adventure.. I don't enjoy it in the states so it wasn't a huge suprise when I didn't enjoy it here. The only familiar things were cornflakes, and a few candy bars.. I can't begin to describe this place.. Even in Windeok that is such a city.. The sounds and faces here are incredible. As far away from home as I can get.. no matter where I go next. And completely beautiful. The other folks are almost exactly how I imagined them. Tommy, smiling and always seeming to laugh... Dave with his dry wit and endless knowlege.. Pat, the group crack-up and Jake the teddy bear.. Becca as efficient and loveable as I imagined.. all around a wonderful group of people.. i'm thrilled.

sari.

[Becca]

Just had to take a minute to post. Africa is an incredible place and we haven't even left Windhoek yet! Tomorrow we are off to Etosha National Park and thats where the real fun begins.

Good group and we are having a blast!

[eenorton]

Yay!!! Hope the luggage has shown up by now! (If not, Jake and Sari *do* have their camera gear, yes? :) )

Sounds like y'all are off to a great start!

Looking forward to updates when you can and knowing you're just soaking in Africa when you can't.

Hugs all around

[michael_]

woohoo glad everyone arrived safely, all that planning and your baggage doesnt show up, thats just how its suppose to be :( hope it arrives in time and pics pics pics :)

[Pete]

Great news that everyone's there and you're having a good time...

But where are the pictures? Keeping us all in suspense?

[SuzyView]

Congrats for arriving, hope the luggage is there now.

We are all eagerly awaiting the pictures because we are all thinking of you and imagining what it's like. And I knew you'd all get along. I haven't been to a meet where everyone wasn't instant friends. You may get to know each other better than you planned, but all good. Have fun!

[CyberDyneSystems]

Camera gear was always with us, but our luggage showed last night at midnight, it was like a gift frokm the heavens.
today we drove to Etosha wildlife preserve and .. well,
Thye trip there was filled with birds, I saw two types of large hwk one with the name of griffin in there somewhewre,. some smaller harrier sized raptors, I saw three different falcons I'm pretty sure, and that's just the raprtors,.
In the park, Springbok, Zebra, Wildebeast.. and a Giraffe!

It's just amazing all the time.

[CyberDyneSystems]

I do not think I will be able to post any pics along the way myself,. aorry to say. there's just so little time .. I am shocked I am here typing. Maybe when we settle into things.\I know Patrick and others will soon though.

[SuzyView]

OOOOoooooo. Still waiting for pictures. :) I hope you guys have a ton of CF cards.

[saravrose]

It's an incredible place to be.. Jake and I are both feeling almost romantic about the atmosphere and sheer wonder of the place.. But, it's off to get charcoal for the brai Dave is planning and then to the watering hole to watch rhino's and whatever else we'll see a block from our rooms.. which are airconditioned by the way. I was really hoping for mudhuts and mosquito netting...

sari

[SuzyView]

It's an incredible place to be.. Jake and I are both feeling almost romantic about the atmosphere and sheer wonder of the place.. But, it's off to get charcoal for the brai Dave is planning and then to the watering hole to watch rhino's and whatever else we'll see a block from our rooms.. which are airconditioned by the way. I was really hoping for mudhuts and mosquito netting...

sari

Now, I can't believe that. You'll sleep a lot better with air conditioning, believe me. But if you feel like you are being deprived, Target sells netting when you get back. ;)

[rachelnguyen]

Hi Jake,
I registered to the forum so I can keep track of you guys! I am so glad your luggage came in. Imagine spending all the money for extra weight and then they lose it!

Now quit reading and go shoot some pictures.

Your sister, Rachel.

[::John::]

Welcome, Rachel

It's quite an adventure, isn't it?

As you may have seen, there are a lot of us 'arm-chair' travelers watching and wishing.

Kinda like belonging to a club and watching the sports team head off for an away game.

Exciting stuff.

To the wicked wanderers - great to hear from you. Wonderful to hear you are enjoying it all.

[Ospi]

Enjoy yourselves, i certainly did when i was there. Hopefully you will be more lucky with seeing the rare animals then i was.

[Maureen Souza]

Wow....I am wishing I was there too. Keep us posted and have FUN! (I know you are) :)

[kevin_c]

Yeah, have fun guys and gals! - I'm waiting for the group-shot round the camp fire :-)

[EOSAddict]

So, who'se been eaten by a lion yet? Sari? :)

[Belmondo]

Has CDS been attacked by a loin yet?

(Same question as EOSAddict's, but written on Jake's keyboard.)

[EOSAddict]

Has CDS been attacked by a loin yet?

(Same question as EOSAddict's, but written on Jake's keyboard.)

You crack me up Tom :lol:

[CyberDyneSystems]

Two days ago, Morning drive near "Rietfontaine" water hole in Etosha NWR near the Pan.
Dave took an unused "detour" on morning drive that had me questioning his sanity.. but it turned out to be a brilliant drive. The Scenery was uniquely picturesque, not the dry lunar landscapes we'd been seeing, but rolling feilds and valleys, trees, shrubs, in dozens of hues of gold, browns and even some hearty greens.
I was staring out the left reer window when as the yellow flowers and long thorns flashed by, I saw them,....
First one, then a second, then count was lost,.. the next number could only be "more than two" as the impact of the golden vision paralyzed the left Brains' ability for basic mathematics.

Lions.
"Stop"!,.. Stop Dave!... Stop!



"LIONS!" ... finally brought the backie to a dusty skreeching hault.

It was magical, a pride of 7. The patriarch 5 females, and one young male.
We three were alone on an almost dust free road with a lion pride!
Photos galore (of course) but the experince..
They enveloped us, lions on all sides. A female stopped in front of our backie, as others came up on either side. They lay down to rest and wait for the King to bring up the rear, and we, ... we were literally laying at rest with them, within the bosom of the pride.
We were likely the closest to danger we had ever been in our lives. Yet at the same time, surrounded by these glorious killig machines, were prpbably some of the most safely cared for humans on earth.

To my family, communication has been impossible, "they don't have phones in the bush" :) My E-mail accounts are impossible to raise on the slow connections, but thanks to Pekka and the Magic of POTN I have this one conduit. Please read on here, as this may be it for a while.

Rachel, God is here, I'm not sure it is your God, but it is here at the water holes, with the elephants and Lions.

Till next time, we are off now to n'gepi for one night then on to sleep in treehouses. :)

I don't think they have ISP in the treehouses. ;)

Jake

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yozk3a&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yriya0&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yriyb5&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yq3okq&outx=600&noresize=1

[SuzyView]

WOW! Can't wait for more!

God bless you and everyone with you. Stay safe, most important.

[saravrose]

Two days ago, Morning drive near "Rietfontaine" water hole in Etosha NWR near the Pan.
Dave took an unused "detour" on morning drive that had me questioning his sanity.. but it turned out to be a brilliant drive. The Scenery was uniquely picturesque, not the dry lunar landscapes we'd been seeing, but rolling feilds and valleys, trees, shrubs, in dozens of hues of gold, browns and even some hearty greens.
I was staring out the left reer window when as the yellow flowers and long thorns flashed by, I saw them,....
First one, then a second, then count was lost,.. the next number could only be "more than two" as the impact of the golden vision paralyzed the left Brains' ability for basic mathematics.

Lions.
"Stop"!,.. Stop Dave!... Stop!



"LIONS!" ... finally brought the backie to a dusty skreeching hault.

It was magical, a pride of 7. The patriarch 5 females, and one young male.
We three were alone on an almost dust free road with a lion pride!
Photos galore (of course) but the experince..
They enveloped us, lions on all sides. A female stopped in front of our backie, as others came up on either side. They lay down to rest and wait for the King to bring up the rear, and we, ... we were literally laying at rest with them, within the bosom of the pride.
We were likely the closest to danger we had ever been in our lives. Yet at the same time, surrounded by these glorious killig machines, were prpbably some of the most safely cared for humans on earth.

To my family, communication has been impossible, "they don't have phones in the bush" :) My E-mail accounts are impossible to raise on the slow connections, but thanks to Pekka and the Magic of POTN I have this one conduit. Please read on here, as this may be it for a while.

Rachel, God is here, I'm not sure it is your God, but it is here at the water holes, with the elephants and Lions.

Till next time, we are off now to n'gepi for one night then on to sleep in treehouses. :)

I don't think they have ISP in the treehouses. ;)

Jake

I was there with the lions and have to agree with Jake... the closest thing to a sprititual experience i've ever had.. We've looked for constallations upside down watched elephants and been chased by them taken three days of cold showers and felt incredibly small in what can only be considered the most incredible country there can be found in the world.. Photos and long, long stories to tell at another time when it's not 17.50 rand a half hour.

Sari.

[EOSAddict]

Fantastic to hear from you!

Sounds magical.

[Belmondo]

Thanks for the updates. It all sounds glorious.

Sari: When your upside down identifying the constellations, how do you keep the blood from rushing to your head.

Keep up the excellent reports. We all truly look forward to them.

[rachelnguyen]

Jake,

What an incredible experience. I can't even imagine what it is like to see lions, up close, for the first time. Maybe a little like David Bowie and the miracle at Foxboro? LOL. Or not.

Yeah, God is there. And I am pretty sure it's the same one. :-)

I just can't wait to see the photos.

To all the list folks, I apologize for the personal stuff, but since this is the only mode of communication, here goes:

The house is fine. Checked today. Everything is in order. And clean!

Roo is doing great. We took her camping with us this last weekend and she even managed to get a walk in. The rest of the time she held court at the campground, with just the occasional bark to remind all the whipper snappers who is top dog. She nosed around after chipmunks, too.

Our wildlife expedition yielded two kinds of frogs, a couple of salamanders and a garter snake. No lions.

We love you and miss you!

Rachel

OK. Back to normal programming.

[SuzyView]

POTN: Connects families all over the place. :)

[michael_]

WOW!! i just want photos, sounds like one of those once in a lifetime moments, glad everyone is doing well cant wait to hear more stories.

[Az2Africa]

Here's a fill in photo I shot in Kenya so you get the idea until they post their shots.:)

202884

[rachelnguyen]

That is GREAT!

[rachelnguyen]

POTN: Connects families all over the place. :)

I'll say, Suzy! Rhode Island to Namibia and back.

[3Turner]

Sound like you al are having lots of fun....looking forward to the pics.

[Belmondo]

WOW!! i just want photos, sounds like one of those once in a lifetime moments, glad everyone is doing well cant wait to hear more stories.They're spending a lot of money to get those photos. I suspect they're goiing to make us cheapskates wait a while longer

The house is fine. Checked today. Everything is in order. And clean!It's good to have friends. Even forum adminstrators and senior moderators need friends.

[In2Photos]

I am so jealous. It sounds like you guys are having the time of your lives. This will likely be something that you will cherish for many, many years to come and the stories that you get to tell friends and family from here on out are worth more than anything. I hope you don't mind if I live vicariously through you. ;)

To all the list folks, I apologize for the personal stuff, but since this is the only mode of communication, here goes:

OK. Back to normal programming.
Rachel, I think I speak for everyone here that there is no need to appologize as Jake is one of the most beloved and respected of members in this community (not to mention all that power he has ;) ). A few words from his sister during his travels surely won't bother any of us, I promise.

[eenorton]

It was magical, ... we were literally laying at rest with them, within the bosom of the pride.


...the closest thing to a sprititual experience i've ever had..

Oh what wonderful descriptions! Just wonderful!!

[rachelnguyen]

Thanks, Mike, and everyone!

[joayne]

Oh Man oh man... This is just great. To have watched this trip gather from an idea to reality! Blessings to all traveling and we are all armchair travelers here just supporting y'all the best we can...

Lions surrounding you. The middle of the pride.. just too incredible.

[John & Adele]

Thanks Jake. We sat here and read your e-mail and felt like we were there and there were tears streaming down our cheeks. I'm so glad you got to have that experience and that you shared it.

[mellowd]

Making me so homesick :(

[saravrose]

I have to say. It just keeps getting better and better. there are stories my favorite being the mongooses... but I think that one belongs to Jake. I will tell you that the bird guy managed to make friends with some cute guys and had them eating out of his hand... well sort of.

Were all well not killing eachother yet and enjoying everything soo much. the birdhouse experience was wonderful.. we walked along the okavango, followed a great young guy named Henry through what can only be described as multiple species animal muck. I handled myself beautifully and wasn't even remotely prissy.. I did however make Henry come back and save the camera when I started wading up to my knees. Pat has made friend with a particular brand of alcholic cider so all is well in his world. Dave our fearless leader has an obnoxious perfect shot percentage, Tommy is smiling his way through two countries, with his sly jokes and good natured self.. which is very, very much appreciated at times.. Jake is just as full of jokes and really wonderful insights as he is on POTN and i'm pretty much keeping my head above water, keeping up with the guys and enjoying all the talent surrounding me.

Another update soon but it's Tommy's turn at the computer...

Sari.

[3Turner]

Good to have an update on the excursion.

I have to say. It just keeps getting better and better. there are stories my favorite being the mongooses... but I think that one belongs to Jake. I will tell you that the bird guy managed to make friends with some cute guys and had them eating out of his hand... well sort of. Okay he had some cute guys eating out of his hand....but what about the birds/ Did he get the birds to eat out of his hand?:lol::lol: Just kidding...I'm only kidding Jake please don't hurt me ;)

[Becca]

Just wanted to post my 2 cents worth of our trip so far...

Africa is truely a magical place as everyone else has said. I can't pick a favorite moment, they have all been so amazing. Watching a small pride of lions eating from a fresh kill and swimming in a waterhole, gemsbok males fighting with their long horns, hippos calling to each other from under our tree house at night, and of course our friends, the local mongoose tribe and our pet jackal who enjoyed Pat's cooking as much as we did!

[tommykjensen]

This has so far been a fantastic trip. I have seen lions, (not the same as Sari and Jake) but a group of 4 male lions sleepiing about 2/3 meters away. I saw a lioness swim and another lioness eating a kill. And then of course a got a great photo of a Leopard up in a tree. It was great. And then we also had an elephant chase us. Well it was not mad but we did back away from it just to be safe. Dave said that we could have stayed and it would just have walked past us.

Now we are in Chobe Safari Lodge and immediately when we entered Chobe national park after crossing the border we saw 2 heards of elephants close to the road. But I didn't have my camera out so got no pictures of that. But not a big problem because we will see many more elephants I am sure.

[holland_patrick]

Man it's a killer to upload photo's here......




http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y136/holland_patrick/2007/AFRICA/juliaafrica9.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y136/holland_patrick/2007/AFRICA/IMG_9268.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y136/holland_patrick/2007/AFRICA/IMG_9171.jpg

[3Turner]

Wow...several updates and pictures too!! All of you are making me very envious of your trip. Although, the elephant thing would have scared me a bit and I too would have backed up a bit. Like the lion shot Patrick...what was he looking at?

[In2Photos]

Thanks for the updates! Sounds like a lot of fun and even danger too!

[eenorton]

...hippos calling to each other from under our tree house at night...

Ahhhhh.... a slice of heaven!!!

Lovin' the updates everyone!!

[SuzyView]

I know it costs a fortune to get these notes to us, but we are enjoying them tremendously. Thanks for posting and glad to hear you are all well. Just curious, how many pictures have you taken so far?

[rachelnguyen]

Jake,

I just want to remind you that the only thing I requested from Africa is that you not get eaten by a hippo. I think my exact words were something like 'don't let a hippo bite your sorry _ss.'

No falling out of that tree house! And that goes for your friends, too.

The pics are great, Pat. Thanks for going through the agony of uploading them.

[rachelnguyen]

:-)

Hi Uncle Jake, this is Noah.

Hippos are the most dangerous animals in Africa.

:-)
Bunnydude

[eenorton]

don't let a hippo bite your sorry _ss.'



LOL Rachel! Get a camera and join in! You fit right in here! :D

[Maureen Souza]

Thanks for the updates and photos..... it sounds so amazing. I can't wait to see all the photos when you get home!

[In2Photos]

Jake,

I just want to remind you that the only thing I requested from Africa is that you not get eaten by a hippo. I think my exact words were something like 'don't let a hippo bite your sorry _ss.'

No falling out of that tree house! And that goes for your friends, too.

The pics are great, Pat. Thanks for going through the agony of uploading them.
Now that is funny. :lol:
LOL Rachel! Get a camera and join in! You fit right in here! :D
Absolutely!

[holland_patrick]

The loins wasn't looking at much just kind of streaching...

we are back at a cafe and the wonder twins are here with me ..

the crew from bakkie two...

patrick

[::John::]

Fantastic stuff so far guys.

[saravrose]

Jake,

I just want to remind you that the only thing I requested from Africa is that you not get eaten by a hippo. I think my exact words were something like 'don't let a hippo bite your sorry _ss.'

No falling out of that tree house! And that goes for your friends, too.

The pics are great, Pat. Thanks for going through the agony of uploading them.

Don't worry. Nobody's getting eaten by anything... atleast not that I can tell. The only request I had from back home was to not get eaten by a lion and I thing i'm in the clear... heck, nobody has even managed to get a sunburn yet.

the tree houses allthough were a little tricky there was an evening a couple nights ago after two glasses of very cheap shiraz and some cold/allergy medicine containing codein where I wasn't quite soo confident.

great photos Pat, should have known you would have posted first.. I think that hippo shot was during your five mile trek while us normal people were shooting birds from the bar.. but, all things considered it looks like it was worth the blisters....

Sari.

[CyberDyneSystems]

We spent the last few nights on the banks of the Okavango (sp, of course) Today we are in Botswana near Chobe reserve, on the shores of the Chobe river.

The N'Gepi camp was eclectic, loose and wonderful. Our tree house was hanging over the Okavango on a slight bend in the river, so we could see in all directions.
The hippos were all around at night, but kept there distance by day.

Thanks for the update on Roo and all Rachel much appreciated. Glad to hear she made out o-kay on the camping trip.

Hey Noah!

Today we watched Kingfishers hovering and diving, a HUGE Eagle (unknown name at this time) with a Guinea hen for breakfast.
Hippos, Crocs and another Lion pride briefly.
The springbok, and antelope types are so prevelent we are almost at the point of not noticing them, Zebras are everywhere.

Nothing is so odd looking though as the Giraffe,. they make there way timidly through the thickets of bush, standing tall above all else,. they remind me of the tripods from War of the worlds,. but much cuter.

We've had stand offs with elephants on the road,. and lived to tell of it,. and yes we were invaded by an army f Mongoose.

They came early one afternoon,
Just a few at first, one found the run off water from the camp tap... then the call went out.
Mongoose, packs and gangs of Mongoose. One caught a sniff of the cooling hard boiled eggs still in the pot on the camp stove. He had it overturned in seconds. Then ther armies were on the march. They came wave after wave. The kettle, water and half dozen eggs disappeared is a see of grey flecked fur, teeth, claw and bushy ringed tails. "Meepmeep" they call softly as they devoured all. They descended upon the camp in droves from 3 different directions converging on the eggs, devouring all in there path.

When all had been scoured clean by the pillaging vikings, they rested. In our camp, under our tables, chairs, digging shallow holes in the soft dusty earth. They sprawled out amongst our feet making themselves at home amongst us and our stuff for a brief hard earned nap."Meep Meep" then they moved on.

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yriy2p&outx=600&noresize=1

[saravrose]

Lets see.. my favorite parts soo far.

being surrounded by lions.
the waterhole in halali.
the jackals.
The elephant herds.
Getting trapped by the elephants to get back to the campsite before dark.
The lodge right before Ngepi... (can't remember the name).
The mosquito nets (it's just fun).
Not having any bug bites.
The stores, all the different kinds of food a good portion of it indistinguishable.
Toto.

My not soo favorite parts.

Losing the luggage.
the showers at the last campsite.
Bone in chicken curry.
the juices.
Not being on the correct side of the road when there's a shot.
Not being able to get out of the car on the game drives... (I cheated over a tree shot this morning.)

that's it. can't think of anything else... But, ofcourse there's the people shots, the faces of the children.. truly remarkable and seeing the villages at times it's shocking driving into Rundu I was having a hard time with it initially.. all the barefooted children lugging gallon jugs of water miles along the freeway and the mothers with laundry balanced on their heads and babies strapped to their backs.. It truly is a way of life that's hard to wrap your mind around and a level of poverty that seems totally at odds with the beauty surrounding it. But, as Jake pointed out there is propable more happiness, sense of self, family and personal achievment than we'll ever see..

Sari.

[michael_]

haha jake thats an awesome story, i hope there are shots of it.

glad everyone is doing well.

sari by the sounds of it nothing major to complain about which is awesome and for someone like me who really wants to do one of these trips its rasuring.

[rachelnguyen]

Boy Jake, good thing you guys aren't cobras. You would have been toast with all the mongooses. (Mongeese?)

Sari, your list is wonderful! And I agree about the curry with bones. Not one of my favorites either. Much prefer it boneless, LOL.

I love reading your posts, gang. Keep 'em coming.

Love,
Rachel

[pat_h]

Hey Jake,

I am in love with your trip. I've been reading the posts over and over, laughing, crying, and wishing I was there. Can't wait to see the photos from this wonderful adventure, and hear the tales in greater detail. My best wishes to all the folks traveling with you. May you all find more there than you ever, in your wildest dreams, anticipated.

Keep your notes coming, we arm-chair adventurers are with you moment to moment.

Love,
Ma

[Maureen Souza]

It's almost as cool reading your family posts, Jake :).
I am so glad you guys are having the adventure of a lifetime!!! Sari.... I knew you would be a trooper on this trip. I know the memories from it will last all of you forever....along with your photographs. Have fun...stay safe. Keep clicking!!

[lakiluno]

but wheres dave?

Sounds amazing. My sister was in SA in February (although mostly it was charity work) - I wish I was there :p.

Have fun!

[kevin_c]

but wheres dave?

Sounds amazing. My sister was in SA in February (although mostly it was charity work) - I wish I was there :p.

Have fun!

I expect Daves 'winding-up' the locals...:rolleyes: :lol::lol:

Great reading here, along with everyone else, I can't wait to see the pics when you get back, and the write-up of course (Another POTN book?)

[John & Adele]

Jake,
Are you sure you didn't pack some Schneiders pepperoni sticks to attract the mongeese?

[misspix]

*joins the long list of POTN'rs living vicariously through the African adventure*

Wow.
That's all I got right this second.
Wow.

[Az2Africa]

Glad to hear you guys are having a great time. I have 20 days left before leaving for Zambia. We gotta talk when you get back!

[BBrat]

Man, I wish i was there... but i do really appreciate you all taking the time out from your trip to post for the rest of us! It sounds like an incredible experience. ALL of you be safe and bring back lots of photos.:)

Agian, THANKS for sharing...

[SuzyView]

What fantastic commentaries. Sari, no bug bites! That's really unheard of. :)

Trip is moving forward so fast. Keep the posts coming when you can. Everything sounds dangerous and full of adventure. In awe of your experiences and very jealous. Keep safe!

[rachelnguyen]

but wheres dave?

Sounds amazing. My sister was in SA in February (although mostly it was charity work) - I wish I was there :p.

Have fun!

Hi Leo,

A whole BUNCH of kids from my church were in SA in March doing charity stuff and it completely blew their minds. Many of them are already trying to figure out how to get back. In fact, Jake had dinner with two sisters who made the trip about a week or so before he decided to join the safari. Where was your sister working?

[rachelnguyen]

Confidential to CDS:

We sold the trailer. Looks like we are going to Vietnam in February. We are applying for passports this week. Can you keep an eye on the lagomorph for us?

Also, Roo's giant bed is taking up our whole living room.

Can't wait to see you.

[rachelnguyen]

Jake,
Are you sure you didn't pack some Schneiders pepperoni sticks to attract the mongeese?

Or PEI Baked potato flavored potato chips?!

[lakiluno]

Hi Leo,

A whole BUNCH of kids from my church were in SA in March doing charity stuff and it completely blew their minds. Many of them are already trying to figure out how to get back. In fact, Jake had dinner with two sisters who made the trip about a week or so before he decided to join the safari. Where was your sister working?

I think it was a city called Durban? My school has a "link" with a south african school, and so we send people over every year. I might (hopefully) be going this year.

They did go on a one day mini-safari while they where there.

[mellowd]

I think it was a city called Durban? My school has a "link" with a south african school, and so we send people over every year. I might (hopefully) be going this year.

They did go on a one day mini-safari while they where there.

Durban is in Kwazulu-Natal on the east cost of SA, not sure if that helps.

[theflyingkiwi]

wow, it sounds like everyone is having a good time. good see that Sari hasn't been eating by anything at this stage :)

the forum would indeed lose something

Look forward to reading more posts, now I wish I was there.

[michael_]

how long was the trip? 21 days?

[eenorton]

how long was the trip? 21 days?

Yup!

[buddy4344]

This is really taking me back to my trip to Chobe in July. Keep them coming.
Buddy

[saravrose]

Boy Jake, good thing you guys aren't cobras. You would have been toast with all the mongooses. (Mongeese?)

Sari, your list is wonderful! And I agree about the curry with bones. Not one of my favorites either. Much prefer it boneless, LOL.

I love reading your posts, gang. Keep 'em coming.

Love,
Rachel

four days later and I forgot about that list... but, it seems about right. We are having a great time... well, The boys pulled one of my classic moves of getting stuck in the sand trying to reach a lodge... turns out it was the wrong one in the first place.. the shovels came out and the air got let out of tires a couple of villagers wandered over to help, Bailey inparticular laughed and said that this happens a lot and ofcourse we're American... I however got a few nice shots of a couple of children out of it and enjoyed it almost as much as the ride we were scheduled to take in the maccuros (spelling)... and then ofcourse there was the goat trail up this canyon called the hills following a bushmen telling us stories of dancing unmentionables that were painted on the sides of rocks a few centuries ago.. I had my wimpy girl moment and was really, really wishing I had stayed at the bar.. I don't think I'll be recovering from my fear of heights on this trip.. and dangit all.. I'm just too freakin' short to scale canyon walls.. But we are all safe and sound in Maun checked into a nice motel dreaming of laundry service, cold water and toothpaste. It feels funny somehow. The last village we were in there was this beautiful boy of about twelve Jake handed over our bag of cookies when he soo quietly said that he was hungry.. I'm trying to wrap my head around my being soo thrlled with a bathtub and icecubes when that's a luxury that thousands of people a few feet from us have never experienced.

I wonder where the lines between tourists and locals is and if the camera makes it harder to see. All those comments and threads about photographers being removed from life, not experiencing things and enjoying the moment have in my opinion been proven as incredibly false. It's much, much more real to look back on the day and see everything and know that you'll look at it again the next day and the next and maybe even take it home with you. There is beauty here more than I was prepared for there is wildlife camp fires of folks laughing and eating, experimenting with beer, and wine. Talking to locals, and guides, shaking hands and trying your best every day to be aware that you are in their home, on their land. But, there's a lot of the feelings of being here that will never be repeated something soo simple as my feeling like an ass for throwing away half a bag of potato chips in a motel room only to see a maid pick them up out of the trash. It's a time for learning and growth. I hope maybe i'm wise enough to appreciate it.

Don't worry about us. Were fine, getting along wonderfully well and happy. The pictures will be incredible and i'm dying to see everyone's as much as you are all.
Sari.

[eenorton]

Oh Sari, that was a beautiful recap of events. Thanks so much.

[Skip Souza]

Sari, you just painted the most moving scene without uploading a single photo. **sniff**

[buddy4344]

Sari, Lots of thoughts from you comments. First, I got stuck in the sand on day one in Chobe- near some resting lions. By day 2, I had learned to run my tires on very low air pressure (about 1 bar) :) Being stuck in the bush can be stressful. From the journal entries, I am eager to go back - maybe Etosha this time.

Second, the people. I took my 24 year old son along. He's an extravert, so he quickly befriended many locals from our bartender in Kasane to kids playing soccer/football. I found the northern Botswanan people to be some of the friendliest I have ever met - and always open to a photo - even though I know they had little material posessions in life. I also went into Zimbabwe to see Vic Falls - a great sight, but a totally new view of unfortunate situations in life - yet the school kids at the Falls were so fun and eager to meet us that I know the country will return to strength once they are allowed to be democratic again (BTW, I also saw similar great people in Russia and Czech Republic when there while the cold war was on ... and ... in more recent trips, they have proven that you can believe in good people regardless of where they are).
Also, while in South Aftica and Botswana, I learned of the lost generation. I met several young kids being raised by their grandparents due to AIDS. HIV infects >40% of the 20 to 45 age group in Botswana, so as you look and meet people - recognize the dim fate for nearly half of the young adults you meet.

As an upper middle class America, my trip was a great experience to see a country and it's fantastic natural resources. But it was also an awakening of the need for the world to support health and water issues in Africa.

Oh and BTW, I have now edited many of my Africa shots. I have over 500 really quality "keepers". Several have now been finalist in international competitions, but some of my favorites are those of the people of Botswana and those of my son and me in the bush together(which I do not enter are sell as they are my "personal collection.

[rachelnguyen]

Sari,

What a moving and beautiful description of your journey so far. Thank you for sharing this with us.

Buddy, your reminder of the scourge of HIV in Africa is important. When the group from our church got back, the most significant memory for them was going to an orphanage where all the kids had lost their parents to AIDS and many of them had AIDS themselves. As I understand it, it is still more or less a death sentence in Africa, as the drugs aren't readily available.

[mellowd]

As I understand it, it is still more or less a death sentence in Africa, as the drugs aren't readily available.

100% correct. Unfortunately because of this local witch doctors (Sangomas as they are called) recommend obvious things that will not work, but then desperation gives way to insanity. One of the remedies is in order to clear yourself of HIV you need to give it to a virgin, hence the large amount of rape among young girls and even babies (yes, it happens)

[Belmondo]

100% correct. Unfortunately because of this local witch doctors (Sangomas as they are called) recommend obvious things that will not work, but then desperation gives way to insanity. One of the remedies is in order to clear yourself of HIV you need to give it to a virgin, hence the large amount of rape among young girls and even babies (yes, it happens)Tragic. So sad.

[CyberDyneSystems]

Wow, the whole families here,.
Rachel, can you get the URL to Aunty Bets..?

We are in a hotel outsde Maun Botswana,. near the Okavango delta.
Thi morning some of us went on another 4X4 drive ino the Moremi Reserve, Sari and I went for a Mokora ride down a tributary to the delta.
It was a very pleasant way to spend a morning, (company aside) :)
Our Pilot was amaing, he knew the nmes of all the birds we saw, and was able to mintain the balance of a very tippy Mokora despite my bst efforts to oveturn it while swinging the 400mm around tracking birds in flight.

We are on route bck to the city, Windhoek, and will be boarding our planes on the 17th (the Americans anyway)
In between we hope to se more of teh people and places of normal African life (is there a normal?) as opposed o the game reserves we have been sheltered in for most of our journey.

Not sure if I'm missing home, but I am sure it will be good to be back.
It's been a wonder thus far. No words..

Jake

[saravrose]

Okay.. because i'm here reading over Jake's shoulder I figured i'd give it a go.. The mokora was very nice a little uneventful but pleasant.. Our guide showed up in a pair of jeans, sunglasses with a cellphone headset, Jake and I were wishing he'd make a phone call while poling down the river. Unfortunately he was full of good manners But, after a couple of hours he did want to know why the heck we both needed two cameras and what the difference was. Jake let him peek through the viewfinders to get an idea. He seemed just as interested in us as we were in him.

I'm not sure if i'm ready to go home. As much as I want to talk to my family and friends, show off the photos and eat fried chicken there's soo much here and I feel like i've barely scratched the surface.. but, real life intrudes and I should get back to it.

There has been a level of surrealism to this experience. It seems at times as though home is the watered down version of the world, everything is more vibrant here, I wish there was a way to bring it back with me. But, the photos will have to do. Tomorrow we move on, Dave keeps mentioning a San Village which i'm thrilled with. more information to come but don't be suprised if this is the last posts from us until Windeok.

Sari.

[buddy4344]

Sara, Jake,

Just a warning. Upon return to reality, you will definitely feel that the developed world is less vibrant from a photo opportunity point of view. While I shot thousands of shots in two weeks there, I have struggled to find anything worth shooting since I returned. I have been out 4 different mornings to shoot and have shot maybe 50 shots - comparted to my normal 500 per month prior to Africa.

[rachelnguyen]

Buddy,

I don't think it is just the photos that seem lifeless. Re-entry seemed difficult for all the kids who came back from SA, too.

Jake: I was asked to remind you to try and bring home a book for Gail's collection.

I am not sure if you guys are ready to come home, but we are sure ready for you to be home. Roo and I miss you, LOL.

Sari, I am sorry you are all the way across the country. I would love to have dinner with you and see your photos and hear all your wonderful stories. I'll have to live vicariously through Jake! :-)

[Permagrin]

I just finished reading this thread. THANKS GUYS for posting and enriching our days with your updates! safe travels and looking forward to more of your photos and stories!

[michael_]

Sari i hate you :( you make me want to be there, please write some sort of short story of your adventures, the way you described everything on the last page left me wanting more, for someone who hasnt been to Africa 'yet' :) you have brought it to life for me.

and buddy i completely understand, i moved to europe in 1999 for 18 months, packed up everything and left, when i returned it took a good 4 years to finally settle and even to this day i havent gotten back to normal 100%, and i dont think i ever will, traveling is the best life experience for me thus far.

[saravrose]

Buddy,

I don't think it is just the photos that seem lifeless. Re-entry seemed difficult for all the kids who came back from SA, too.

Jake: I was asked to remind you to try and bring home a book for Gail's collection.

I am not sure if you guys are ready to come home, but we are sure ready for you to be home. Roo and I miss you, LOL.

Sari, I am sorry you are all the way across the country. I would love to have dinner with you and see your photos and hear all your wonderful stories. I'll have to live vicariously through Jake! :-)

Absolutely. Although your brothers photos will be incredible i'll make sure you see a few of mine. and who knows after this trip the world is seeming a little bit smaller than it used to.

Sari.

[CyberDyneSystems]

Jake: I was asked to remind you to try and bring home a book for Gail's collection.



Yeah well Gail has to understand there are no bookstores "in the bush" :lol:

Actually were in the big city now, but it's sunday, so not much is open..

See you all on tuesday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[eenorton]

Oh my gosh! I can't believe your travels are nearly over! I wonder how much "re-entry" time it'll take you guys to get back to a "normal" routine.... Hopefully you'll never totally recover, eh?

I'm so looking forward to photos and the tales that go along with them.

[SuzyView]

Give them time to get situated with their bodies first and then get a good shower and brushing the teeth done. Then they will be able to concentrate on putting stuff here. No rush, we're just getting the popcorn and "Born Free" music out of the cabinets ready to go. :)

[rachelnguyen]

Tuesday! I can't wait to see the pics. And hear the stories.

[Jon]

Tuesday! I can't wait to see the pics. And hear the stories.
Lucky for you, you get to hear them. We have to try to translate Jake's ... creative... spelling!
:{)#

[joayne]

^^ Ahhhh, but all if forgiven, given the enthusiasum.....

[holland_patrick]

Well it's almost over. the gang is eating and i just felt like catching up on some e-mail while wait our 3 hours to catch the first flight.



All in all it's been pretty exciting My world has changed for the better. As we all know i'm training for triathlons and while this has been my rest period I managed to get some pretty good walks in. I'm looking forward to my next trip to the dark heart of africa and the SA Ironman http://www.ironman.com/events/ironman/southafrica in 2010 which i'm aiming to compete and I'll also bring my daugter this time. so she can see the wonder of the amzaing place. SO to everyone out there I'll see you on the other side of an 18 hour flight.


patrick

[EOSAddict]

It's been great to catch glimpses of your trip along the way. Hope you all travel back safely.

:)

[timbernet]

I wonder how many combined Gigs of images they shot? I am going to guess over 100... that should be fun to post-process :-D

[buddy4344]

Number of Gigs? more than they expected. On my trip with my son to Chobe in July, we shot 85 Gigs shooting in RAW with 30D cameras. I am still editing my shots, but have already cleaned up 650 keepers.

[michael_]

I wonder how many combined Gigs of images they shot? I am going to guess over 100... that should be fun to post-process :-D

definately more than that, i would be hitting 4-8gb per day easy shooting RAW probably more, i know someone who went to NZ for 2 weeks and shot 130gb took him 12 months to sort and process everything

[Claire]

Can't believe I haven't seen this thread until now! Thanks for the updates!

[Az2Africa]

I wonder how many combined Gigs of images they shot? I am going to guess over 100... that should be fun to post-process :-D

I'm headed to Zambia next week for a shoot. I will generally shoot about 18-20 gigs with the 5D in 2 weeks, but that's being fairly selective. I take 22 gigs in cards and an Epson P2000 to backup. I like to leave the images on the cards as well unless I run out and have to erase one.

[buddy4344]

I also used an Epson for back-up. It worked well - though upload was slow when you are eager to preview the images. :)
CF Memory is cheap at the moment if you shop around. You may want to consider buying another 4 to 8 gig card as insurance - these animals really drive you to shooting in high burst mode as you hate to miss any facial expressions.

[Belmondo]

---you hate to miss any facial expressions.Animals have faces? Wow.

Isn't today the day Jake said he was returning? I'm sure looking forward to hearing from him and the others.

[condyk]

I'm alive ... Tommy and I went on a special 'side-trip' for the initiated this morning (we jumped over an open fire buck-naked last night to gain exclusive entry to the !Kung 'ring of fire', somewhere which must be negotiated for guide access to the wild area necessary the shooting we did. We shot a female Leopard eating up a tree less than 5m away and then came upon a Cheetar with four 3 month old cubs. Man, the US posse will be sick. But they were all so keen to to get back to Big Macs and C. Sanders they refused the naked fire jump and headed for the Airport pronto instead. Tommy currently eating Lemon cake in the first class lounge while checking his shots from today. They are great.

The next Africa trip is currently being planned. Naked fire-leap is optional y'all ;-)

[Box Brownie]

Crikey time flies, back so soon???

I hope they had as good time as it sounds from the 'postings'.

Also and I am sure they will each have hundreds (thousands?) of images to sort etc but hope they (yes all of you) can post one or two appetite wetters for the great stuff to come later.

:)

[EOSAddict]

Dave,

Don't tell me you're coming back!!! :) Good to hear from you fella. Best wishes to you and Tommy for the journey back.

[Claire]

Yaaay, can't wait to hear all about the trip (should be enough there for you all to post for a year or more... ;) )

[tommykjensen]

Well its over. It has been a great experience and I do want to go back to Africa again sometime. I think the only thing I did not like was the mosquitos which was quite annoying when they were around. One thing I probably would do different is less camping.

Now we are waiting to board our flight to London. In 3 hours time we should be on our way.

Number of Gigs? more than they expected. On my trip with my son to Chobe in July, we shot 85 Gigs shooting in RAW with 30D cameras. I am still editing my shots, but have already cleaned up 650 keepers.

Actually I shot less than expected. Last year a dane who had been on a similar trip for 3 weeks told me he shot 15.000 photos and deleted 5.000 so he got 10.000 back home!

So I planned on similar amount and had a 160 GB external hd with me.

But with todays 200 shots of leopards and Cheetahs. YEAHHH :D my total is approximately 2.500 photos.

I'm alive ... Tommy and I went on a special 'side-trip' for the initiated this morning (we jumped over an open fire buck-naked last night to gain exclusive entry to the !Kung 'ring of fire', somewhere which must be negotiated for guide access to the wild area necessary the shooting we did. We shot a female Leopard eating up a tree less than 5m away and then came upon a Cheetar with four 3 month old cubs. Man, the US posse will be sick. But they were all so keen to to get back to Big Macs and C. Sanders they refused the naked fire jump and headed for the Airport pronto instead. Tommy currently eating Lemon cake in the first class lounge while checking his shots from today. They are great.

The next Africa trip is currently being planned. Naked fire-leap is optional y'all ;-)

It was great although I did not like the buck-naked thing. But what do you do to get to see cheetahs and cheetah cubs :lol: Photos will be posted wednesday or thursday.

[EOSAddict]

It was great although I did not like the buck-naked thing. But what do you do to get to see cheetahs and cheetah cubs :lol: Photos will be posted wednesday or thursday.

Ermmmm of the cheetahs I hope.. not the buck naked .... :)

[tommykjensen]

Ermmmm of the cheetahs I hope.. not the buck naked .... :)

Hehe yeah of the cheetahs and leopards :lol:

[3Turner]

Thanks for the continued updates and glad to see you all are headed back...with so many pictures to share ;) . I've been thinking, I bet it would be interesting to see the last shot each of you took there at any time before boarding the plane for home.

[Permagrin]

great updates....erm...very descriptive ;) Can't wait to see all your shots!! (and nice to know none of you...even lion bait, got eaten)

[kevin_c]

I'm alive ... Tommy and I went on a special 'side-trip' for the initiated this morning (we jumped over an open fire buck-naked last night to gain exclusive entry to the !Kung 'ring of fire', somewhere which must be negotiated for guide access to the wild area necessary the shooting we did. We shot a female Leopard eating up a tree less than 5m away and then came upon a Cheetar with four 3 month old cubs. Man, the US posse will be sick. But they were all so keen to to get back to Big Macs and C. Sanders they refused the naked fire jump and headed for the Airport pronto instead. Tommy currently eating Lemon cake in the first class lounge while checking his shots from today. They are great.

The next Africa trip is currently being planned. Naked fire-leap is optional y'all ;-)

Welcome back Dave! - I trust we will NOT be seing the pictures of the naked fire-leap! :shock: :shock:

[Olli]

Welcome back all!
The next Africa trip is currently being planned. Naked fire-leap is optional y'all ;-)I'm among the first to show interest to join, again (but most probably can not come ... :()

[rachelnguyen]

I picked Jake up at the airport here in RI this morning. His luggage is somewhere in Africa still. (Lost both ways, yeesh! LOL.)

He looks like he's been in the bush for a few weeks. Belt is notched a couple spaces tighter. Scruffy beard. No tan, though, as his lily-white complexion can't take the sun. (Me too, of course!)

We had breakfast together and he told me a few highlights. No pics yet. I think at this point he is probably sleeping rather than uploading. But I can't wait to see them. Pat, he did the hippo call for me. He told me you guys got so good at it that the hippos would call back at you.

I can't wait to see all your photos.

[rachelnguyen]

By the way, Olli, are you Vietnamese? We are planning a trip to Vietnam for February.

[Olli]

By the way, Olli, are you Vietnamese? We are planning a trip to Vietnam for February.:lol::lol: Vietnam is a country where I've been maybe thirty times, but not in recent years.

At least early and mid nineteens that was truly an interesting place (if you like to be in a place where everything can not be planned and forecasted), both Hanoi (which I mostly visited) but also Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). The country must have developed a lot, but still I believe, if you get out from these two big cities, a lot of good old Vietnam can be found. - I would love to back some day, that is one of my favorite places.

I'm sure, you will have a wonderful trip.

[Becca]

I'm alive ... Tommy and I went on a special 'side-trip' for the initiated this morning (we jumped over an open fire buck-naked last night to gain exclusive entry to the !Kung 'ring of fire', somewhere which must be negotiated for guide access to the wild area necessary the shooting we did. We shot a female Leopard eating up a tree less than 5m away and then came upon a Cheetar with four 3 month old cubs. Man, the US posse will be sick. But they were all so keen to to get back to Big Macs and C. Sanders they refused the naked fire jump and headed for the Airport pronto instead. Tommy currently eating Lemon cake in the first class lounge while checking his shots from today. They are great.

The next Africa trip is currently being planned. Naked fire-leap is optional y'all ;-)

:p <---- Me, green with envy! But I want photos of the naked fire jumping!

I made it back to New Hampshire around noon today and am fighting to not head directly to the couch. Unfortunately, the luggage from the US posse is still enjoying time in Africa while we are back home. Seems to be a trend with us! I hope everyone else made it home safely!

Since all of my cables were packed in my checked luggage, I am slowly but surely copying photos from my external HD to CF cards that I can then copy onto my computer. I can't wait to see the shots that I've taken full size!

[Claire]

Welcome back!

[Az2Africa]

Welcome back all !! I'm glad to hear you had a great time.
Tell the truth Dave. You waited until you got rid of the yanks before going to shoot the good stuff!!:lol:;)

[EOSAddict]

Welcome Back Becca!

The Book Committee awaits! Only joking, can't wait to start seeing pics.

[CyberDyneSystems]

It's about 4:00pm local time,
I have spent the last few hours enjoying a small "Jersey Mikes" Italian Sub" and browsing the pics for the first time while dumping all my cards to HD.

I am mightily pleased!

tomorrow I will try and sort and maybe get some ready for online gallery,. so much to sort!

We had a wonderful time, it's so hard to put words to it,. but my deepest gratitude and appreciation I offer Dave "Condyk" for his leadership on this journey. We simply could not have had a better guide to show us the ropes, nor someone more "Ghandi" to put up with our weeny American squabbling and whining.

If he does another such trip in the future, I could not recommend joining along enough!

[Belmondo]

It's about 4:00pm local time,
I have spent the last few hours enjoying a small "Jersey Mikes" Italian Sub" and browsing the pics for the first time while dumping all my cards to HD.

I am mightily pleased!

tomorrow I will try and sort and maybe get some ready for online gallery,. so much to sort!

We had a wonderful time, it's so hard to put words to it,. but my deepest gratitude and appreciation I offer Dave "Condyk" for his leadership on this journey. We simply could not have had a better guide to show us the ropes, nor someone more "Ghandi" to put up with our weeny American squabbling and whining.

If he does another such trip in the future, I could not recommend joining along enough!We're all waiting breathlessly. Some of us are also interested in how the Mk III did for you.

Welcome back. Now get to work.:p

[SuzyView]

Sari hasn't made it home yet? or is she still traveling to another destination?

And welcome home safely. We were worried.

[Becca]

but my deepest gratitude and appreciation I offer Dave "Condyk" for his leadership on this journey. We simply could not have had a better guide to show us the ropes, nor someone more "Ghandi" to put up with our weeny American squabbling and whining.

If he does another such trip in the future, I could not recommend joining along enough!

I'll second that!

[In2Photos]

Welcome home wayward travelers. :)

Can't wait to see the pics.

[::John::]

Some of us, in this part of the world, have been impressed by the whole exercise - we have watched and seen that, while Dave is a character here in POTN, his planning abilities were superb.

From what Jake just posted, it would appear that his leadership abilities are also up there with the best of them.

Well done, to all of you, for such a successful trip - and thanks, Dave, for the vision, the planning and the execution. You have whet the appetites of a large number of armchair travelers.

[theflyingkiwi]

welcome back guys and gals. I look forward to seeing the pictures

[saravrose]

I am home.. after a few extra hours travel time. I'm currently browsing some of my photos and am just as pleased with what i've shot.. I'm jetlagged, tired and managed to not cry until my last flight into Boise on this itty bitty puddle jumper plane when the flight attendant made me give up my camera bag because it didn't fit in the overhead compartments. It feels a little strange to be home. I wimped out of driving back from the airport.. (It seemed like everybody was on the wrong side of the road). Ofcourse I flew into Boise while it was gloomy and raining and couldn't exactly remember why I was soo excited to be back. My aunt made an executive decision and decided to roast a turkey instead of making fried chicken for dinner and it looks as though a good chunk of the family is coming over to see me and listen to stories. I don't need to start work for a couple of days and already have an assignment to pick up Abby-girl from the school bus. I have returned home to a couple pieces of unpleasant family news that I was spaired while being away from home. I think it may take a bit of time to shift gears and get back into the habits of being home. Already the television noise is getting on my nerves and it felt very strange to grab a pair of jeans out of my closet.
I will agree with Jake with the big hearty thank you to our favorite Brit. couldn't have done it without Dave and was thrilled with every moment. A lifetime of stories, dozens of photos as proof and feel that i've met some really incredible people. I won't forget any of it and can't wait to see everyone again.

Sari.

[Maureen Souza]

Welcome home, everyone. We are thrilled that you all came home exuberant, excited and full of great memories (some trips don't turn out that way ou know).
Of course we are all waiting with baited breath to see your spectacular photos and hear all the stories. Get some rest first.

[saravrose]

I picked Jake up at the airport here in RI this morning. His luggage is somewhere in Africa still. (Lost both ways, yeesh! LOL.)

He looks like he's been in the bush for a few weeks. Belt is notched a couple spaces tighter. Scruffy beard. No tan, though, as his lily-white complexion can't take the sun. (Me too, of course!)

We had breakfast together and he told me a few highlights. No pics yet. I think at this point he is probably sleeping rather than uploading. But I can't wait to see them. Pat, he did the hippo call for me. He told me you guys got so good at it that the hippos would call back at you.

I can't wait to see all your photos.

Yep, but the lost luggage might actually work in his favor..:cool:. I think we all look like we've been in the bush a few weeks lord knows i'm ready for a haircut and manicure. But I am impressed at Tommy and Jakes abilities to not get sunburned they were both vigilant to the sunscreen and looking for shade.

the hippo call is great like a pissed off Santa Claus, but they really do it well... and the zebra head shaking was my favorite thing... and Toto every morning..

[eenorton]

Welcome home friends.

[Claire]

Big hugs to everyone who is back. :-)

[Belmondo]

Big hugs to everyone who is back. :-)What about those of us who stayed here with you to make sure you were okay? We don't get hugs too?:cry:

[joayne]

Welcome back to the travelers.. We are all so excited by your adventures and the stories. It was wonderful to read the posts and now we are awaiting the actual PHOTOS!

I for one would love to see buck-naked fire jumping!!

[Belmondo]

I for one would love to see buck-naked fire jumping!!You never told me. What are you doing this weekend?

[Mgdh]

Welcome home everyone. It's been great following your travels in this thread. I'm going to be watching eagerly for the pictures to start making their way onto the forum!

[theflyingkiwi]

I am home.. after a few extra hours travel time. I'm currently browsing some of my photos and am just as pleased with what i've shot.. I'm jetlagged, tired and managed to not cry until my last flight into Boise on this itty bitty puddle jumper plane when the flight attendant made me give up my camera bag because it didn't fit in the overhead compartments. It feels a little strange to be home. I wimped out of driving back from the airport.. (It seemed like everybody was on the wrong side of the road). Ofcourse I flew into Boise while it was gloomy and raining and couldn't exactly remember why I was soo excited to be back. My aunt made an executive decision and decided to roast a turkey instead of making fried chicken for dinner and it looks as though a good chunk of the family is coming over to see me and listen to stories. I don't need to start work for a couple of days and already have an assignment to pick up Abby-girl from the school bus. I have returned home to a couple pieces of unpleasant family news that I was spaired while being away from home. I think it may take a bit of time to shift gears and get back into the habits of being home. Already the television noise is getting on my nerves and it felt very strange to grab a pair of jeans out of my closet.
I will agree with Jake with the big hearty thank you to our favorite Brit. couldn't have done it without Dave and was thrilled with every moment. A lifetime of stories, dozens of photos as proof and feel that i've met some really incredible people. I won't forget any of it and can't wait to see everyone again.

Sari.

good to hear that you didn't get eaten my a tiger or anything else on the trip :)

[michael_]

i cant believe its over :( time flies, glad everyone is back home safe and sound and glad you all had an amazing trip, i think i will be booking my place on the next POTN African Adventure

[joayne]

I for one would love to see buck-naked fire jumping!!


You never told me. What are you doing this weekend?

Well, actually, there is a party at my house and I will be lighting up the outdoor fireplace....:rolleyes::D:p

[BradT0517]

Well I am glad to know that everybody made it back saftely.

I would love to go on this trip with you all next year, but I dont believe my parents would look well upon the idea of me skipping a month of my senior year to take pictures on another continent.

[kartik]

Glad to hear that you guys are back. I am sure you must have had a blast and some outstanding moments must have been captured. Really eager to see those pictures. :)

[EOSAddict]

Welcome home, everyone. We are thrilled that you all came home exuberant, excited and full of great memories (some trips don't turn out that way ou know).
Of course we are all waiting with baited breath to see your spectacular photos and hear all the stories. Get some rest first.

Welcome home friends.


What they said :) Welcome back!

good to hear that you didn't get eaten my a tiger or anything else on the trip :)

Sari, I think the TF needs to give you a new title given you survived :) Come to that you probably all deserve a (benevolent) visit from the TF!