Khaki Memo

Apparently we missed the memo that says that when on a safari you must wear khaki. Everyone around here is wearing head-to-toe khaki; cargo pockets and zip off pants are also very popular.

Today we completed our "Big Five" and saw a leopard. We even saw two of them; one was carrying its "kill" to the top of a tree. We also saw two male lions about 5 feet from our car. Two males together are rare. They only stay together when full grown if they are family. Yesterday we saw an entire pride of lions, include 3 females, 1 male, and 24 cubs. It was a once in a lifetime experience! We got so close to the male that he roared! Pretty sure William broke a bunch of park rules. William has been an outstanding guide. He said that what we have seen in three days is more than most see in a week! Thank you for your prayers-- the Lord has given us gift after gift on the safari.

Our lodge here on the Serengeti is just as wonderful as the one from the crater. It still is a strange juxtaposition to Legho. Last night the cooks and servers all gathered and sang and danced for the whole hotel in Swahili. While there performance was great, it wasn't a representation of the Africa I have experienced. It occurred to me that most people come here and do not have an authentic African experience. They closest they come is African-style hotel uniforms, contrived singing, and cocktail "huts." I couldn't help but be saddened by this reality. I would choose to go back to bucket showers in Legho or passing bricks while singing with YL Arusha leaders anytime over going on a safari. Most people miss the heart of this place, even if they see the "Big Five" or wear khaki.

Love,
Elizabeth