Getting Summer Ready

Summer is time at the beach
 

Spring has awoken - the sun has begun to rest heavily in the sky each day.   We all know and understand the impending heat spells the relentless smothering of a heat blanket stifling us in the early weeks of summer in December right through to mid April.  We have now forgotten the chill of winter and our conversation revolves around how hot we are, how hot we feel,  how hot our house is and how much hotter it is outside.

I write notes to the support workers to ensure Merv is drinking enough water.  Last summer I forgot the notes and he became dehydrated.  The air con is working well, and the reverse cycle is set to cool only.  The watering hoses have been checked and Merv has began watering his new patio garden twice a day.
I have pulled out the summer clothes, pushing the warmer clothes to the back of the wardrobe.  The soup in the pantry will be used next winter and the ice cream in the freezer located and ready for action.


Memories of the Red Bull Air Race in Perth 2009
 

Spring and summer are ideal for picnics and BBQs on our long white beaches or in the park, both just as good.  I clean down our portable table and chairs and begin to plan outdoor activities and family get togethers.  Merv's summer job is to clean down the glass table under the patio, where we spend countless hours enjoying lunch, playing games or reading a book.
I found my old windscreen reflective shield today.  Yesterday I used my jacket over my steering wheel when parked, it can get so hot it feels like you are juggling hot potatoes when driving.
Mel and I went to the local indoor swimming pool today.  The water was warm and we trudged up and down the walking lane for over half and hour.  We know the exercise is good for us.  Mel soon tired but we will be back keeping in tune with our summer traditions.


 

Celebrations Ongoing

Merv woke this morning smiling from ear to ear.  He remembered today is our anniversary and gave me a hug and a kiss as he stumbled out of bed.  After breakfast we watered the new seedlings and plants under the patio.  The weatherman promises 35 degrees Celsius, almost 100 degrees in Fahrenheit.  I tell Merv how important it is to keep the new plants well watered in the heatwave.
I dropped Merv off at his HD social group this morning and support worker Joe picked him up at 1pm as is expected.  Both of us were busy during our day, doing different things.  I planned a surprise this afternoon when I returned home at 4pm.  Throughout our 37 years together birthdays, anniversaries and celebrations have always been planned and enjoyed to the full.  Life is all too short and should be celebrated everyday.  Today was no different.
After Joe went home I took out the blender, washed and hulled the strawberries, added low fat ice-cream and a swig of Amarula and presto;  an easy strawberry cocktail.  We sipped our cocktails and nibbled on our African chocolate while discussing our day.  A very different afternoon tea!
I cooked omelettes for dinner, finishing with chocolate mousse and strawberries.  We toasted (again) our 37 years with a 275ml tiny bottle of Moscata shared between us.  Our day finished with us taking time to watch the movie, 'Strictly Ballroom.' 
I am pleased Merv enjoys his many celebrations and I am able to share them with him! 

African Anniversary Celebration

Our Anniversary destination

Sometimes the day doesn't work for you and you choose another, which is what we did today.  Tomorrow is our 37th wedding anniversary but Wednesdays are busy days but not together. 
I adorn myself with my amazing South African beads and earrings.  Merv had an appointment with his specialist at Neurosciences this morning in Mt Claremont.  Afterwards we took the car for a spin along the West Coast Highway heading north with spectacular views of the calm, deep blue Indian Ocean.  We headed to Sorrento Quay for lunch at Hippo Creek, African Grill.   I wanted to share the joy of Africa with Merv and what better way to do it than to celebrate at home in Perth!  I had taken my young niece to Hippo Creek a few years ago.  She was a young baby when her parents lived in Ghana for almost two years.  I'm sure that gives her African heritage!


African Tasting Plate

Ready to enjoy our African Tasting Plate

Today the sun was warm and the restaurant opened its large folding doors letting in the warm air and making the best of the serene views of the small beach and moored boats.  We choose the African tasting plate for starters.  It consisted of: Buffalo, Ostrich, Crocodile and Venison skewers.  I slid half of each skewer onto Merv's plate.  Fortunately the meat was cut up in small pieces and I asked Merv to ensure he chewed it well.  It was amazing.  I tasted mine with the peri-peri and chutney style sauces.  Merv is a tomato sauce man and nothing else will do. The crocodile was the only white meat.   We toasted our anniversary with Merv's South African beer and a glass of in house wine for me before we
enjoyed our lunch time specials.  Merv had a medium done steak sandwich and I enjoyed the prawn salad.  A coffee afterwards finished our meal at Hippo Creek.  We strolled along the boardwalk and treated ourselves to a gelato dessert which we shared together.  A little romance.  Later this afternoon we finished planting all our seedlings.  Another item to cross off my list.  


Merv's Spring Garden

Merv planting one of the herb baskets
 

While I was away all of Merv's plants under our patio withered and died.  I didn't plan that very well, but  I knew most of his plants were seasonal.  I told him not to worry because we would fix it.
Fix it we did today.  Armed with our $100 voucher we took the ten minute drive to Bunnings in Malaga and grabbed a trolley.  We filled the trolley with potting mix, snail pellets, herbs, veggie seedlings and flower punnets.  Oh, we added a rake as well.  I am not really sure why.  Maybe because our last rake broke ten years ago and was never replaced.  I don't think it will really add to our lives but you never know!
There are fifteen different types of potting mix, maybe more.  There is a potting mix for herbs and vegetables, one for flowers, one with blood and bone and the list continues.  We bought three large bags.  We had a list of herbs and vegetables.  We couldn't find the dwarf beans but loaded the trolley with cherry tomatoes, capsicums, parsley, basil, lemon balm, mint and oregano.  Merv was thrilled to once again have his own garden to water, to admire and hopefully soon enjoy the fruits of his labour. In the cooler hours of the afternoon we used an old trestle table as a makeshift garden bench.  We filled the hanging baskets with potting mix, adding herbs in the baskets and vegetables in the rectangular planting pots.  We watered them and scattered some snail pellets (we have very hungry snails)
I close my eyes and visualise all these little plants fruiting and flowering  and giving Merv joy.
There is beauty in so many things in this big world and sometimes they are just there in your own back garden.

World Congress on Huntington's Disease 2013

This year the bi-annual World Congress on Huntington’s Disease was held  in September in Rio de Janeiro.  This is a very important event in the Huntington’s calendar, when health professionals, patients and relatives meet to share their experience, expertise and knowledge.  The Congress is hosted by a different country each time.  This year was particularly significant as it was 20 years ago that the HD gene was discovered. 

HD International Logo
 

Ann Jones,  Chairperson of Huntington's WA and Board Member Rensie both attended the congress.  Ann made an address at the congress titled: 'A Global Perspective.'  Valuable information learnt and discussed at the congress has been recorded to share with others affected or interested in HD.

Way back in 1994,  Merv had his predictive testing for HD and found he was HD positive.  I didn't get the internet until 1999 when I spent countless hours researching HD online.  One of my favourite websites was HD Lighthouse, a USA website.  I learnt about the benefits of blueberries and Creatine, both used by Merv.  In late 2008 he said he no longer wanted to use either of these.  His health faltered in 2010.  That was when I stopped my research journey.  As I was working full time and later part time I missed out on attending carer support groups and only now I realise their importance to keep me positive and charged.  I am reminded Melanie will now benefit from what I previously researched and more recent research.

While there is still no treatment or cure for this devastating disease there are many dedicated researchers and scientists investigating all possibilities, and the HD community remains optimistic and hopeful of a brighter future.
While its difficult to capture the event for those people unable to attend, on this occasion some of the speakers at this year's Congress were filmed and these vimeos are available on https://vimeo.com/album/2556826



In addition HD Buzz covered the four day Congress converting the research into plain language for the global HD community, and I would encourage you to read these articles.

'Buzzilia' from the Huntington's Disease World Congress: day 1        http://en.hdbuzz.net/138

'Buzzilia' from the Huntington's Disease World Congress: day 2         http://en.hdbuzz.net/139

'Buzzilia' from the Huntington's Disease World Congress: day 3         http://en.hdbuzz.net/140

'Buzzilia' from the Huntington's Disease World Congress: day 4         http://en.hdbuzz.net/141

 

There were two particularly moving Vimeo presentations on the plight of the HD community in South America. These  were a reminder of how fortunate many people living in countries with a good living standard,  appropriate services and medical aid are available.

 https://vimeo.com/album/2556826/video/75992122

 https://vimeo.com/album/2556826/video/75718277

 

 

 

 

The Catch Up

I have been back in Perth for just over a week and life is beginning to return to normal.  I am not sure what 'normal' really is when caring for a loved one.  Merv returned home on Monday morning and he was really pleased to see me, as I was pleased to have him home again.  It took no time at all to put the carer's hat back on but I do feel revitalised and ready for whatever life has in store for us. 


Gifts for Merv from South Africa
 

Merv was happy to look at all my photos and videos and he was happy with the African T-shirts, a wooden giraffe, ornaments and lots of chocolate.  The chocolate tasted just like Aussie chocolate but has animated African animals on the wrapper!  I even found a pack of, 'African Animal Droppings,' just yummy milk chocolate buttons.Merv's mobility continues to be an issue for him and I rang the local Occupational Therapy centre to determine when his referral visit is due.  I was told it will be another six weeks but when I informed them a wheelchair would be beneficial to him as soon as possible, it was suggested they maybe able to put his appointment forward, but we will wait and see. 
We picked up Mel from her Weight Watchers meeting last Tuesdayand celebrated Merv's return home at the Dome with his favourite regular iced chocolate and apple pie with cream.  It's good to see Merv flash a great big smile!
Dustin cleaned my house while I was away, well done Dustin but the rain fell and the weeds in the garden went forth and multiplied ongoing.  The garden assault is on this week.
After a fabulous holiday it is good to come home and continue life's journey.


Good bye to Makalali

Final Day at Makalali:  Wednesday 16 October

Lone Lion enjoying the morning sun

Our Final Photo Shoot at Makalali

I slept well waking to noisy baboons jumping on my roof and hollering to each other as they do.  I smile to myself, I won't miss the baboons but I will everything else!  I am ready before 6am, the sun has risen and the sky blue and clear.  I wonder if the German couple are close to Johannesburg yet.  Two of our group have decided to forgo this morning's safari and sleep in.  The three of us each have our own long seat to ourselves and I sit in the middle of my seat.  I hope I am safe from the scratchie branches and overhang which can surprise you un-expectantly when they smack you across the face or arm!  I relax and enjoy the jeep rising and dipping over the uneven landscape.  I am not expecting to find the elusive leopard.  I am just happy to have seen all the varied wildlife that Makalali has to offer.  We come across a sole male lion just sitting, in the bush enjoying the morning sun.  Lawrence said he is far from home and just having a rest.  We marvel at the white rhino, zebras, giraffes and impala.  A whole herd of impala are in front of us and they take off as we approach, running and jumping away. We spot a mongoose which insists on running for its life along the track with the jeep following slowly behind.  Finally it makes a decision to escape the track and head off into the bush. No leopard today.  We enjoy our morning coffee in a clearing while I take some last minute photos.  We return to camp and after our scrumptious breakfast
Francine the wife of the General Manager introduces herself and we sit and chat for a while.  They have only been in charge here for a couple of months but they have managed other safari reserves and are looking at maintaining all which is good at Makalali and improving it without taking away its rustic charm.  It is all too soon we are back on the road to Hoadspruit airport once again and headed for Johannesburg.


Italian Replica Arcade next to our hotel

Fortunately our hotel had our three separate rooms ready for us and there is no mix up this time.  A large casino is attached to the hotel but none of us are gamblers.  Instead we dine in the arcade and I enjoy a seafood plate, carafe of white wine and small dessert for the equivalent of $12 AUD.  The same meal would cost over $50 in Australia. Wages in South Africa are much smaller than Australia and therefore they have cheaper meal prices.  The arcade is a replica of Italy with a large statue of Michelangelo's David at one end.  The ceiling is painted to look like the sky and the lights are always dim.  One of the group says there is a similar arcade in Las Vegas. 
There are no baboons on my roof tonight.  I dream of my incredible adventures.  Tomorrow we spend all day returning home to Perth.

Sun Set Safari

A little more Safari reminiscing:  The Sun Sets on the Evening Safari:
It is our final evening at Makalali.  It is our third and final night but it feels like we have been here forever. We could stay forever, but life is not about dreams.
It is warm and I know it will be cooler later on.  One of the German couples have left this morning and the other couple, who are honeymooning are excited about this last safari. They will be leaving in their car at 3am; they worked out how long it would take them to drive  to Johannesburg;  return their rental car and arrive at the airport in time for their trip home. 

White Rhino mother and her calf
 

One of many majestic giraffes
 

We are on the hunt for a leopard, we have seen all the Big 5, but as yet the leopard has eluded us.  Lawrence carefully checks the paw prints in the sand and heads off in their direction.  We spot elephants and stop for a short period of time.  You can never get enough elephant viewing!   A white rhino mum and her calf  trud by, captivating us with our cameras posed.  We are delighted!  Zebras, giraffes nibbling the canopies of tall trees, kudos and a herd or more of impala are easily spotted, but the leopard remains elusive.  The sky is clear of clouds and we are honoured with a most beautiful South African sunset.  We discuss among ourselves the joy of the 'hunt' and the fun of  4 wheel driving in the rugged bushland.  In Australia you could pay hundreds of dollars to a tour company just for a couple of hours in a 4WD exploring the outback.  There is no chance of seeing an elephant, giraffe or lion at home in the bush! Only kangaroos and the occasional emu.  We stop and enjoy a quick drink and nibbles before returning back to camp.  The leopard remains in hiding. The dark of night envelopes us and Lawrence uses the spotlight to see any animals close to the track.  When he spots an animal on the track he dips the headlights, only turning them back on to check the animal has crossed the track and is no longer at risk of being hit by our vehicle.  The animals are dazed when they are caught in the brightness of the headlights, just as kangaroos are at home.  We arrive back at camp safely.  We are offered a steaming hot hand towel to freshen up.  Our dinner is not yet cooked and we are escorted to our huts for twenty minutes.  A good time to change out of my 'safari' clothes.  A delicious BBQ awaits us.  We enjoy homemade pumpkin soup with bread. Our main meal is Ostrich meat which has been well marinated, vegetables, boiled potatoes and polenta.  Dessert is ice cream and homemade cake.  I wash my dinner down with a couple of glasses of South African white wine. 
It is my last night in my amazing mud hut, I take a long bath, download my photos and listen to my favourite music (on my iPhone!)  There is no TV or radio, just the sounds of the wild and the wind in the trees. I turn off the light, my eyes close and I am asleep.  The world and I enter into a deep slumber.  We are at peace together.

 

 

News Flash

Safari News on Hold due to this Newsflash:


Presentation of Cheque

Merv went to his HD social group this morning and the car park was full, the room was filled with people I didn't recognise and cups and saucers were lined up on the table. What was going on here?
"Didn't I know?"  I was asked,
"Know What?" I replied.
A special presentation was about to be made to Huntington's WA.  Instead of  rushing home and cutting down that difficult bush at the rear of the garden I chose to stay and witness the presentation (so much nicer than gardening!)
Disability Services Minister Helen Morton presented a Lotterywest Grant of $592,511 to Ann Jones, Chairperson of Huntington's WA.  The grant is from Lotterywest.  I believe we are the only state in Australia where surplus money from the purchase of lottery tickets and scratchies is donated back to our community.  Many community needs and families have benefitted from the generosity of Lotterywest since its inception. 

The donation to Huntington's WA is to fund,
The Treatment of Pre-diagnostic Huntington's Disease.  


Lotterywest Grant Cheque for $592,511 AUD

Research will be centred on people who are HD gene positive but as yet not symptomatic.    I couldn't have been happier, my Melanie falls into this category.  Anything which is helpful and provides hope is good not only for my family but for everyone with HD in their family.
It was a good feeling to know we have ongoing research available right here at home.

Elephant Parade

My Exquisite Red Lucky Beans Bangle

Continuation from my diary Tuesday 15 October:  After another filling breakfast and delightful mushroom omelette a few of us walked with Rico, the camp leader,  to the reception area.  There is a walking track which is shorter than taking the vehicle track.  It follows the creek and is also passes through another camp.  It is necessary to walk with a competent staff member as there are wild animals around and we were informed a lion has a litter of cubs at one point not far from the track.  Rico walked up front of our group.  We were told if a lion approaches not to run but to stand still.  I was very glad we didn't have an encounter!  It was good to have a walk both yesterday and today.  Yesterday at the reception area I bought some T-shirts and beaded necklaces.  Today it was warmer and a number of baboons and small monkeys were running to and fro in the green foliage around the creek. At the reception shop I spied a beautiful bangle made of what I thought were red beads.  It was beautiful and I wore it all day.  Later I was told the 'beads' are called, 'Lucky Beans.'  I was happy to give my beloved bangle to our camp cook, Alice as I knew I couldn't get it through Australian customs.  I love my country and always declare everything!  Alice came and gave me a hug, she also thought it is exquisite! Alice blessed us with many wonderful meals. 


Elephant Parade in front of my hut

After our walk, I sat outside my hut drinking my herbal tea and writing my diary.  I could hear a sound and looked out to see a young elephant  thrashing his way though the undergrowth on the banks of the creek in front of me.  Wow,  I hadn't expected to see an elephant in front of my hut!  Out came my camera and the elephant made his way slowly along the creek.  I went back to reading my book and then there were two elephants, three, four, five and the family and all the relatives were soon visiting!  It was amazing and while we ate lunch we witnessed up to twenty elephants together.  We couldn't have asked for anything better.  There were big granddaddy elephants and baby ones following their mums.  They trudged through the creek and the undergrowth pulling up ferns and feeding at leisure.  Four hours later they had moved on.  

Kudo roaming around the huts, eating plants

After lunch I returned to my amazing mud hut for an hour's rest before our next safari.  The baboons were everywhere and bounding up my board walk, jumping on my sun shelter and into their favourite tree!  I took some photos and left them to holler to each other and generally make a mess on my balcony!  A few Kudo were visiting at the entrance to the hut, but even with their large horns, they just continue to graze and keep to themselves.  The weather is delightfully warm and I take my coat on the safari, I know when the sun dips under the horizon and disappears the temperature will drop suddenly.  It helps to think ahead.


Baboon Bullies

Baboon resting in the tree above my hut

Baboons in the creek below my hut
 

From My Diary Tuesday 15th Oct: My peace was shattered when I heard our German friends had an encounter with a baboon yesterday.  The baboon had banged on their door, climbed over their roof and entered their hut through the small oval bathroom window.  It is the only window in each hut without a steel grill.  The man realised the baboon was inside and rushed to the bathroom where the baboon scuttled out through the broken window.  Fortunately the owners are replacing all the bathroom windows with strengthened glass, but it left me feeling a bit uneasy.  My bathroom
window is partially obscured by grass from the thatched roof.  I wondered if the previous occupants of their hut had fed the baboon and it had came back to demand food?  I soon realised the baboons will run off if you go near them but we were told to steer clear of the large males.  There is a large weeping tree next to my hut where they congregate and jump on my roof at 5am each morning.  Who needs an alarm clock?!  They howl, holler, jump noisily and make a mess with leaves and sticks all over my balcony.  I give up and get up to get ready for the 6am safari start.  They are quiet for the rest of the morning but start all over again after lunch, which is a good time to rest on my king size bed.  I have no qualms about reading outside at my table on my balcony after breakfast.  I don't take any food outside with me, only my cuppa.  I know the baboons are smarter than I give them credit.  The General Manager and staff are very much aware of the tactics of the baboons and know the large male baboon leads his troop and keeps them in order. 


Lion leading us on the beaten track

On safari this morning we come across a lone male lion emerging from the bush and sauntering down the dirt track in front of us.  He just kept on walking, stopping once to turn his head and let out a soft growl towards us.  The next minute he lay down on the side of the road as if he was the centre of attention!  One of us asked Lawrence if he did this to allow his pride to move to safer ground?  'Yes, that is exactly right,' Lawrence replied.  A very smart lion.  We followed him for 15 minutes and left as other jeeps appeared to view the lion.  Our next stop was the water hole in front of the General Manager's house.  Not only is there a large crocodile but also a half dozen hippos.  All very much asleep as we viewed, we could only see the very top of their heads.  The crocodile was enjoying the sun and made no movement.  The hippos are active at night and our jeep sat among the trees which they had destroyed and partially eaten.  We moved on and were excited to see waterbuck, giraffes, elephants and zebras.  We stopped in an open 

Hippos enjoying early morning snooze
 

clearing for our morning tea before heading back to camp for a delicious breakfast with the group.







Cheetah Chase

Family Herd enjoying a feed


From my diary continued Monday 14th October:

Getting Ready for the chase
 

I am all ready  with my jacket and gloves, the jeep roars into life and off we head deep into the bush.  We are on a mission to find cheetahs.  Thoughts of cheetahs were forgotten when we found a family of elephants deep in the bush.  The herd had toppled a young tree with a generous canopy of juicy leaves.  They pulled off the leaves and branches,  their trunks doing all the hard work.  The baby took off after its mother
and soon another tree was on the ground and the feeding continued.  It was amazing to witness.  A few times an elephant turned to look at us and our hearts were in our throats until they turned once again to their ongoing meal.  Lawrence found a small group of hyenas, who ducked down their burrow and disappeared but not before we captured them on camera.  We saw giraffes dining on the leaves high above in the branches, zebras grazing in herds, impala bounding along and then came the surprise.

snacking on green leaves
 

Lawrence signalled up ahead were two cheetahs, just sauntering down the track completely oblivious to us.  They quietly and elegantly strolled ahead of us, their minds on their dinner and not on us.  We followed them off the track into the bush and we were caught by surprise. Without time to grab the camera the two cheetahs raced off at high speed in different directions.  Then we realised why.  A single impala was their prize
The impala jumped and sped off leading them on a chase.  I had seen this on TV but never imagined I would witness it in the wild.  We held out breath, for we could no longer see them and did not know if they had their prize.  Lawrence pulled the jeep out and followed them and I must say I was happy they hadn't captured their prize, but of course they have to eat and it is only a matter of time before they do.  The light began to fade from behind the cloudy sky and we stopped for our afternoon drink and nibbles before heading back to camp.  We were all awe inspired after our jaw dropping experience.  We saw more giraffes and zebras with the aid of a spotlight held by Lawrence.  Our chatter over dinner centred on our cheetah surprise.  We can hardly wait for tomorrow.  My bed awaits me and I drift into a slumber of African animals and safari adventures.

White Rhino Hunting



2 White Rhinos

From my diary Monday 14th October:
The weather was perfect, a little cold but I rugged up in my purple jacket and 3/4 possum gloves. The wind was chilling as Lawrence revved up the jeep which bounced and rolled over rocks, ruts and sand.  We went all over with little result for awhile before being alerted a couple of cheetahs had been sighted.
Unfortunately they were obscured by the dense bush & we only saw their shadowy silhouette  take flight.  Lawrence is a whizz at tracking the wildlife. He would often slow down and check for their tracks in the sand.  We were soon in pursuit of two white rhinos. They were mammoth in size!  Lawrence proved his 4WD skills taking the jeep off the beaten track knocking down small bushes while we ducked the thorny branches which ripped our coats and skin if we weren't paying attention!  We followed the rhinos as they trudged through the bush, stopping for awhile before they ambled on. I had to pinch myself to know I was really a witness to the animal kingdom today in Makalali.  Not only did my camera work overtime; my video button captured both movement and

Impala, one of many
 

environment of the moment. We spied a mother zebra and her baby and a herd of impalas sprinting away. The locals call the impalas,'McDonalds' because there are so many of them!  On a more serious side, the impala is a snack for the lions while a zebra or giraffe would be a main meal.  All the animals in the reserve are 100% wild and dependent on the ecological food chain. There is no human intervention. Lawrence stopped the jeep in an open area and made us a coffee each , adding a swish of Amarula, a liqueur which definitely warmed us up! The coffee was accompanied with a treat of tasty home- made cookies.  Safely back to camp at 9am and a welcome breakfast awaited us.  We asked Lawrence to take us cheetah hunting on our next safari.  More food, a little rest and the next safari awaits us.





 

My Amazing Adventure



Hoedspruit Airport South Africa
 

My mind is a whirl of excitement and amazement as I reminisce my African adventure.  I arrived home in Perth yesterday tired and bedraggled after an all night flight.  I rang Dustin when I arrived at the airport and he told me Merv had fallen out of bed a week ago but he was alright.  They had called the doctor to have him checked out.  The tears swelled in my eyes, it was difficult not to cry.  I rang Merv after I returned home and he said he was happy and safe.  Family are visiting him this weekend while I spend the time with Mel.  We are going to Fremantle tomorrow.  It will be good not to worry about getting home at a particular time.   I pick Merv up at 10am Monday morning.
Makalali Game reserve was beyond my expectations.  It was AMAZING!  I had mobile coverage but Wi-Fi was not available.  I will share a little each day of my most wonderful adventures over the next week. 
The flight to Hoedspruit from Johannesburg last Sunday began when we boarded a transfer bus from the terminal to the plane.  The plane was small with two seats on each side of the aisle.  I looked out the window and instead of jet engines there were propellers!  I sat next to a young lady from Iowa visiting her sister at another game reserve in the Kruger Park area.  The flight took only 40 minutes but we were given a healthy snack box, I was most impressed!  Our transfer driver, Barney met us at the tiny airport, all very country and basic.  As we began our journey to Makalali we were delighted to see a sole giraffe standing by the fence!  Makalali is 90 minutes north west of Hoedspruit which is west of Kruger Park.  The sealed road soon changed to stone and dust and we rocked and bumped to the reception area.  We spotted zebra, impala and small monkeys during the drive.  Carolyn welcomed us with an iced tea and gave us specific instructions for our safety.  The huts are not fenced off and the animals in the reserve are free to roam.  They are all wild.  No long walks early in the morning for me!


My Mud Hut
 

Our luggage was put in our huts and we were treated to lunch in a communal dining area, also like a large hut with a viewing platform over the creek.  Two German couples were also visiting and we chatted with them, one couple were on their honeymoon.  We sat and enjoyed a small buffet style lunch with savoury and sweet delights.  We had only an hour to unpack and get ready for our very first safari at 4pm!  My hut was a short walk away, with a boardwalk which takes you to the door and overlooks the creek below. The roof of the hut is thatched and the walls made of mud.  It is made for tourists and original African huts I imagine would be much smaller.  There is a separate toilet, claw foot bath and dressing area,  a huge king size bed with mosquito netting and plenty of shelving and hanging space.  We were instructed to keep the doors and windows closed (there is a fan and air conditioner for summer and fireplace for winter) to keep out animals especially the baboons.  A huge picture window is directly in front of the bed. I unpacked, put on my jeans and jacket and headed off for my first safari.

Our Open 4WD jeep
 

Lawrence was our driver during our stay, he takes a rifle in a bag with him on each safari, fortunately 

Young Lion in the Bush
 

he never needed to use it.  Our vehicle is a Toyota 4WD.  The instructions are simple and specific.  Stay seated, do not stand up in the vehicle, do not leave the vehicle unless instructed.  The animals see the jeep as a whole, they do not recognise it is full of yummy humans!  We are on our way, bumping over the stony ground, there are no seatbelts, we hang on to the sides or to each other as we scale small hills and descent into dry and stony river beds.  Lawrence is on the 2 way radio and hears a lion has been sighted.  We head off at pace and soon see other visitors in vehicles viewing the lion.  Lawrence drives the jeep through the undergrowth to assure we have the best view.  The lion is just 

Cape Buffalo
 

lying on his back soaking up the late afternoon sun.  We ensure our cameras are doing overtime.  We leave the lion and head off into the bush and we are rewarded with a herd of Cape Buffalo.  They are just plodding along and take little notice of us.  They are huge in size and occasionally one looks in our direction and our hearts miss a beat and we hope the beast wont charge, but it just looks and snorts and moves on!  The majestic giraffes are spotted in the bush and we see many in the next few days.  They tower above all else and have such gentle countenance.   On we 
pursue our dreams and are rewarded with a herd of zebras, impalas and even a rabbit as the night envelopes us.  Lawrence stops the jeep and we clamber out the sides and enjoy a drink and some nibbles before returning to our camp.  Some of us have to go behind a bush but I have decided to limit my fluids before safari and fortunately never need to go to this extreme.  I don't want to be caught with my pants down!  The very thought of being chased by a lion (or anything else) while partly undressed is too harrowing for my mind!We return to camp to a warm refreshing hand towel and BBQ dinner.  We dine on vegetable soup, Kudo skewers, fish, vegetables, salad and finish with green banana and ice cream.  Each night a staff member walks you to your hut to ensure your safety.  While out on safari, staff  let down the mosquito netting
and place a bookmark and leaf on your bed,  they turn on the lights ready for your return after dark. My bed is shrouded by the magnificent mosquito netting.  I take a bath and fall into bed.  Though I am in the middle of the African bush surrounded by wild animals my soul is at peace and there is an ambience in my hut.  I drift off to sleep and await the excitement of the next day.

Jo'burg & Soweto Tour

Wow what a big day!  I have been up since 4:30am Mauritian time and it is now 7:30pm South African time, six hours behind Perth.
Our flight from Mauritius went without a hitch, the plane came in early and we arrived at our hotel, The Emperor's Court before 1pm.  The other people in my group; a married couple and a mum and daughter were given their rooms, mine was still being cleaned.  I filled in the paperwork, left my luggage with the married couple in their room and went off with Ekala Tours for my Johannesburg and Soweto tour.  Malcolm met me in the lobby,  a very polite and knowledgeable  man.  He is third generation born in Johannesburg. The tour lasted five hours and was totally amazing.
Firstly we drove through Jo'burg and saw the outside of the offices where Nelson Mandela first worked as a lawyer.  We almost had the opportunity to see his office but was told it was now locked.   Malcolm said he had only seen it once.  Then on the motorway to Soweto and it was everything I had imagined.  We drove past the multitude of tiny houses, many of them renovated and rendered.  The blocks are very small and sheds are sometimes added at the back of the houses to provide accommodation for family members.  We also drove past old hostel style shacks, no longer lived in but a reminder of the past.  Malcolm took me to the Hector Peterson Museum and Memorial.  I had my photo taken by a local photographer for only $2 AUD, he printed it right there and then!  I browsed the markets over the road and found the most amazing beads made by a local lady, I even had a photo taken with her.  Lots of lovely beads for Mel and me.
Our next stop was Nelson Mandela's house at 8115 Orlando  West Soweto.  It is the only street in the world where two Nobel peace winners lived.  Archbishop Desmond Tutu also lived in the same street.

There was a large crowd of people but a lovely young girl told me she is a volunteer and she took me and a man from Kenya on our own personal tour of the house.  She showed us the bullet holes in the front of the house and the tiny kitchen and rooms.  There was a lot of reading today but I was happy to do so.
The traffic was challenging today.  The public transport is poor in Jo'burg and many taxi vans take the run from Soweto to Jo'burg.  They have their own set of rules, many of hem going through red lights, going straight ahead from a turning lane and not using indicators.  Many of them are very old and rusty. Fortunately Malcolm could just about read their minds. He continued to provide interesting information about what we were seeing and also the history of.  Our last visit was to the Apartheid Museum.  It was in many ways very confronting.  The museum trail begins with an explanation of the gold rush in the nineteenth century which attracted thousands of whites.  The whites were the minority and the blacks the majority.  Racism was rife and segregation was enforced long before Apartheid.  The horrific history and the journey of freedom by Mandela, the African National Congress and it's supporters.  Thank God for Mandela and freedom fought and achieved.
Malcolm drove me past Nelson Mandela's current house and told me Nelson is at home because of he number of cars from medical teams outside,  he said Nelson is still very ill.  I was treated to a scenic drive and a view of the grand hotels and upper class residential areas before dropping me back at my hotel.
I was hoping for a long bath but upon my arrival I was told they had given my room away and I would have to go across the road to another hotel.  I was gutted.  I was tired and hungry.  The lobby was full of people and my luggage still in the married couple's room.  I went up to their room and asked for a hug, they gave me a glass of wine as well!  In the end the porter helped me take my suitcase across the road and they paid for my dinner which I had in my room.  They had said they would upgrade me, but the room is a little bigger than a broom cupboard!  Not even a bath.  I had no internet coverage and a lovely young girl came up,  we started chatting and I showed her my lovely beads and photos.  She said, 'don't tell anyone, but I will get you on the internet for free!'  Even from a bad situation, blessings can occur.  Reminds me, my voice has returned to normal, I am most grateful to be well again.  Flying to Hoedspruit and onto Makalali tomorrow,  I can hardly wait for the safaris.

Just in Case

Just in case I do  not have internet access while in Johannesburg I will be unable to write my blog.
Keep watching this space for details 
Myself and four others will travel to Makalali Game Reserve and stay for three nights.  Our first safari is 13 October in the evening.  Return to view the incredible photos.

Moving On

It is our last day in paradise.  We leave our fairy tale resort at 6am tomorrow and fly to Johannesburg.
Only five of the group of fifteen are moving on, everyone else is returning home.
What does everyone do on their last day?  Shopping was the one thing we agreed on.  A few of the other girls have gone to walk on the ocean floor.  They have to wear a helmet which weighs about 30kgs.  They just returned and said it was an amazing experience and have a DVD of their adventure.  Lots of coral and schools of fish, it is good to see everyone happy.
This morning seven of us ladies took two taxis into the Bazaar Markets where we spent thirty minutes hunting for souvenirs.  I bought some scarves, T-shirts and bits and bobs.  They are just like markets you would find anywhere in the world.  Our taxi driver took us to Sunset Boulevard (yes we are still in Mauritius!) where one of the girls bought earrings from Agnes Jewellery.  We enjoyed morning tea at the water front before taking a short walk to  Super U; a large supermarket and smaller shops.  I shopped at leisure and found it easy to spend 2000 rupees,  (approx. $60 AUD) 
Back to the resort for a leisurely lunch at the buffet and Annette asked us to meet her for afternoon tea at 3pm and cocktails on the beach tonight at 6pm.  She promised us a surprise, time will tell.
Time to pack,  our baggage allowance is less to Johannesburg and even less to Hoedspruit!
We have had a most wonderful time in Mauritius with fifteen others, all of us with different lives and stories to share.
Tonight we met together for cocktails at 6pm and we were delighted with surprise Mauritian entertainment on the beach.  Beautiful Mauritian dancers, swayed to the beat of the drums firstly executing their own traditional dance and later inviting onlookers to dance with them.  I sat on the floor  with one of the other girls in our team and savoured the moment.  It was magical.  We followed our entertainment with more cocktails and authentic Mauritian banquet.  Early to bed for an early morning start at 4:30am

Amazing Lion Walk

Torrents of gushing rain drummed out of the downpipes on the walls of my balcony.  What had promised to be a most amazing sunnny day had become wet, sodden and most unsavoury.
I quickly dismissed the thought of my daily walk along the beach and slid under the sheets for an extra 30 minutes sleep.
It was still running torrents at 8:30am when we piled onto our 20 seater bus.  Everyone of us was either anxious or excited about walking with the Lions.  An hour or so later we had managed to weave in and out of the Port Louis traffic and finally arrived at Casela Nature Park.  We were abuzz with anticipation.  Ryan was our guide and explained the trainers would bring two lions out to meet us.  They were two male lions, one pure white , one brown,  They sauntered out with their trainers, not looking hungry or anxious.  We all carried a stick to mimic the trainers who always carry their sticks. Both lions are young and well trained.  The white lion jumped into a tree and played with the trainer.  We were told to walk behind Ryan our guide, who was walking behind the lions.  At one point the white lion sat on a rock and we were encouraged to come behind and firmly stroke the lion's back and tail.  It was an amazing feeling.  Not soft like a kitty-kat, rougher and coarse even for a young lion.  He was very good.  One of the trainer 'played' with him using a long stick with a slice of steak on it.  They are well trained.  We all patted and stroked the lion while the brown lion played close by.  Professional photographers took video and photos which we had the opportunity to purchase later.  I was thrilled to have the opportunity to purchase these. 
After the Lion Park we viewed a beautiful waterfall and the place of the coloured sands.

Off to the rummery for lunch and we had fish terrine, chicken and pannacotta for dessert.  We sampled the different flavoured rums but not for me.  It was a long day and we finally returned to our resort,  Le Victoria at 5:30pm.  It was truly an amazing day, which I will never forget.
Here I am patting the white lion.  Better photos to be added later.

Another Day in Paradise

As I prepare for cocktail hour I retrace my day and know I am in paradise once again.  The resort is picture perfect in the brochures and in real life.  It is mind boggling.  Tomorrow we walk with the lions.  I can hardly wait.
Yesterday as we drove through Port Louis and saw for ourselves the old, basic run down buildings where the residents, mostly Hindus live.  Did Arnan drive us through the poverty hit areas on purpose or was it just part of the trip?  Reminders of Bali, Asia and China flashed through my mind.  How do we help people to live in better quality living conditions?  What can I do to help and be reassured the money is not pilfered into another's pockets?
I know the resort in itself is helpful to the locals.  It provides employment to an array of locals and tourist guides. The locals are beautiful people; gentle, polite and always willing to help.  Surely there is something else I can do?
Today I read my sister's email.  She tells me she visited Merv with Mel at the respite centre and he is well and coping OK.  I am happy to hear this.  I have not heard from Mel though I have sent her emails.  She never sends emails while I am away.  I suppose it is how she copes, but it makes me sad.
I have a day to myself.  I enjoy a walk in the sand before breakfast and realise the sand is very gritty and sharp on my feet.  There is no-one else around and I enjoy the solitude with nature before immersing myself in a bubble bath.   Relaxation my inner self craves.  I spend the morning reading and decide at 12 noon to take a dip in the pool.  Some of the girls and Annette are around the pool and after my swim we head off to Horizons restaurant for lunch.  We sample the heart of the palm. There is a particular palm where they take the 'heart' out of the palm and slice it.  The palm can be pickled or fresh.  Ours is simply dressed and crunchy in a salad.  The palm gives up its heart and dies.  Hmmm well the heart was delicious!
At 3pm we crowd into a glass bottom boat to check out the local coral and fish.  We spotted a few coloured corals and small fish.  It is not comparable to Queensland's Great Barrier Reef, where we snorkelled in 1998.  It was pleasant chatting to a South African family and found they will be on the same flight to Johannesburg on Saturday morning.  After our boat ride I took the opportunity to swim as the ocean beckoned me.  A wonderful day to chill out and remember who I am and what I can give as a person.

Mauritius Magic

As we stood overlooking the city of Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius we realised the tiny island in the Indian Ocean is both majestic and awesome in its beauty and its history.  The  volcanic mountains which shield the city and tower skywards create an unexpected image without symmetry.  It is as a child had painted it at whim.  It adds to the flair and character of the present and its colourful past.  We had started the day visiting the world renowned Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens. One of the world's oldest gardens with many rare plant species.  I learnt today the Jacaranda tree which I thought was Australian actually comes from Argentina!  We saw the world's largest palm trees, beautiful water lilies and giant tortoises.  My friend is a horticulturist and was thrilled at the chance of our visit.  Our next stop was the Natural History Museum which houses skeletal remains of the Do-do bird, now extinct,  Onto the Blue Penny Museum, home of the rare and famous Red and Blue Penny stamps.  We learnt here about the adventures of the Dutch explorers.  We had time to explore the markets and buy a few souvenirs before heading out for lunch at the village of Moka, in the hills outside Port Louis at the Escale Creole restaurant.  We were promised true Mauritian lunch and it was delivered.  It was an open style setting in a garden with picnic style table and benches.  We were offered fresh pineapple juice made from pineapple skins, very tasty!  We were served three courses, the first with sausage, rice, lentils, curry sauce, cabbage and eggplant pickle.  Beautiful, spicy but not hot.  Second course was rice and chicken in curry sauce,  Amazingly good.  Dessert was a combination of coconut wafer, banana tart and papaya, washed down with a local rum shot. Very good for my sore throat!  The staff were very welcoming and warm.
Off for a few souvenirs at Super U
before returning to the resort.  We had a marvellous day and spent time with fellow travellers, sharing stories together. Tonight it is cocktails before dining at the buffet.  Last night we dined at the elusive Italian restaurant and we were serenaded with music. I could stay forever but we all know a holiday is exactly that; a holiday!