Today we got packed up and ready to go on a safari! We are driving to St. Lucia today. We are all set for a long road trip with Brad, 'Me and Andy. We chatted excitedly about what we wanted to see. Although I have been on a safari before, it has been ten years and it is a thrilling experience that I cannot wait to see! I love elephants and warthogs so was hoping to see them up close!
As we drove through Lesotho to South Africa, we noticed a change in the scenery. There were less mountains, more hills and fields and fields full of sugar care. The air smelled almost sweet as we drove by. There were yield signs for goats, hippos and crocodiles.
It took us about nine hours to drive to the St. Lucia Safari Lodge. When we arrived there were palm trees, beautiful rooms with hot showers and full pressure water! There were also some rowdy neighbours that flooded the streets behind our lodge... but darn were they cute!
They were so adorable!! A little teaser of what was to come tomorrow at the safari. They ran up and down the streets, up the fences, in trees, and all over the walls. The locals told us not to feed them and not to pay any attention to them. They were just annoying little monkeys. I guess it would be like someone coming to Canada and feeding the seagulls. They are annoying and everywhere!
I am so excited to be at this lodge and have time tomorrow to see some beautiful animals. It is also great to take a break and debrief with Andy and Brad about what we have seen, who we have met and how we can support AFMSDD and the Foster Homes more.
That night we went into town and had a delicious curry dinner. While we were eating, six young guys in traditional South African dress began drumming and dancing beside the restaurant. They played beautiful music and danced in a magical rhythm. The drum they were playing looked like it was about 100 years old it was so beat up.
We walked back to the lodge and on the way I could not help but stop and marvel at the stars. With such little city light and pollution, the stars shine so bright here. It's amazing to think that everyone at home is looking into the same sky, but I'm on the opposite side of the world, seeing different stars.
The wifi connection was great so I was able to FaceTime with my husband, Mike. It was great to be able to see his face and talk with him. It's so hard to be away from your person, you don't realize how much you miss them until you see their face again.
After everything I have seen and experienced so far this week, it brings me great joy to know I am so lucky to have such an amazing partner, family and friends back at home. My world is full of love and I hope I can bring even the slightest amount of joy to the children here. My goal is to return to Canada and push full steam ahead with fundraising. We need people to realize how incredible our world is in Canada. We need people to see these children's faces, learn their names and become attached to them like I have. What amazing things we could do if everyone decided to give just a small amount of what we have through time, funds or an expertise.
Think about what you have and how much you have in your heart to give. These children need our support. We would love to have you join our team as a volunteer, part of a committee, through marketing support, as a monthly donor or as support for our World AIDS Day Gala.
For more information on Bracelet of Hope, please visit www.braceletofhope.ca or contact me at ccoghlan@braceletofhope.ca
Tomorrow we meet the lions!
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