Today will remain a real highlight of tour, although our wake-up call at 5 a.m. was an abrupt and early beginning to the day. Many of us boarded open-air Jeeps to tour the park while the rest road the coach on the asphalt and dirt roads. We entered the park at 6:30 when it opened, and spent the next 10½ hours having the incredible experience of seeing African wild animals up close and personal that we had only ever seen in zoos and wild animal parks. (Warning – lots of pictures ahead!)
From the first giraffe that was silhouetted against the sunrise to the last herd of mother elephants with their babies crossing the road ahead of us, it was a thrill to see these beautiful and powerful animals in their native habitat, roaming freely. We had a remarkable day and saw crocodiles, zebras, elephants, impalas, duikers, giraffes, African eagles, the kingfisher bird, buffaloes, vultures, warthogs, exotic lizards, the lilac breasted roller, steenboks, baboons, waterbuck, a water monitor snake, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, a tortoise, one lion hiding in the shade, and more that I cannot remember to list. Of the large animals, we missed only leopards and hyenas, so we felt very lucky. I particularly enjoyed the intrepid baby elephant (not even tusks growing yet) who trumpeted, mock charged the Jeep, then turned tail and ran off into the brush. The African landscape is so very beautiful—I’m including some photos just of it so you can share it with us. I took 400 some photos today, so the ones I am including are really just a small percentage. I will be glad to show the rest to any of you who feel cheated—just come to Provo! It was a day that none of us will ever forget—the rare chance to experience South Africa and its animals. We also will not forget the heat; it was 104 degrees in the open sun by afternoon, though we began the day chilly in our sweatshirts. So far South Africa’s winter is surely not the winter we had expected, but no one is really complaining.
All choir members remain healthy and happy and enjoying the tour. I hope that will still hold true after our daylong bus ride tomorrow that will take us through Swaziland and into Durban, South Africa for a South African barbecue, or braai, hosted by the Durban Mission. Our wake-up call tomorrow is 4:30 a.m., so this blog will not go up until we reach Durban. (note from editor – actually, I got it up by 3:45am your time. Yes, I have nothing else to do)
10 comments
Your photographs are fantastic! Even for someone who lives here, I don’t get to see such beauty that often. Then again, pictures won’t ever do the actual scene justice. You need to be there to feel that chill in the morning and experience that African smell in the air. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your blog thus far. Have fun in Durban!
Wonderful photos. I am grateful for the extra effort to keep up your blog. It is a lifeline for parents and friends. Oh – could you help Lindsay find an internet cafe and have her email her family. We are anxious to hear how she is doing. Keep up the great work! Enjoy this time in your life to experience the wonders of God’s creations.
Gorgeous pictures! Thank you so much for taking the time (and loosing sleep) to keep family and friends updated with news and pictures of your wonderful adventure.
Jared’s grandmother
I just found out about your website – Loved every word and every photo. Thanks for sharing your experience. What a superb group of individuals you are – a blessing to many.
I couldn’t be more jealous of all of you, especially after the African safari pictures I just saw! (Who knew Sandefur was National Geographic material!!) So many memories flood my mind of my own Singers African adventure as I read through your experiences and I once again appreciate how precious the Singers experience truly is. You are such an enormous blessing to a world that seeks peace. I think it’s easy to forget the light you bring and the good you do as you are a part of this “cause” everyday, but please know that you are making a difference. Good luck, and I hope all continues to go well, even through the tripe trials, bless your hearts!
Wow, how neat for us to hear from you and share somewhat in your wonderful experiences. We in Utah look forward each day to hear from you. Our love and prayers for your safety and even missionary experiences go out to you. What a blessing for not only you, but those you are able to associate with. Thanks for these pictures and the update.
Nathan Wright’s mom.
This blog is truly a miracle. Thank you for sharing with us.
Oh, WOW! What an opportunity. It looks surreal! and yes, I am Jealous. Have a ball!
LOL!! that bird is absolutely hilarious looking! amazing photo, but it’s such an odd looking creature.
Sandefur:
These pics are beautiful. Thanks for sharing them with all of us.