Today marks the start of our third month in Africa and it’s really starting to seem like home. After work the other day as we were having a “sundowner” and popcorn, “there arose from the roof such a clatter” which we recognized right away. “It’s just the monkeys” said I. Just monkeys! When we first arrived we were so excited to see them but now they’re an everyday occurrence in Africa just like colorful birds and beautiful sunsets.
At Vanessa’s urging (and with little objection form yours truly) we took Saturday afternoon and Sunday off. We spent Saturday AM working with Parks’ kids who did a wonderful job of landscaping and scraping at the house. In the afternoon we took a late lunch at Jasmyn, bought some groceries, and checked out the local spa where we may soon return for a much needed massage.
Sunday after breakfast we drove to Rustenburg (not much of a place) then on to Sun City, South African’s version of Vegas. In keeping with our habit of happening on to events, there was a gala dance competition which we attended. Modern, hip-hop, swing, disco, Latin – it was all there. The performers were from 8 – 28 and were quite accomplished. Upon entry (R60 each) we received R30, about $5, each in chips. We forgot about them until the end of the day when we decided to lost it quickly at the slots. Instead, I quickly won R100 so we cashed it in and left.
It’s beginning to get cooler, a real hindrance when you are trying to paint in the same spattered clothes everyday – and they’re shorts and a t-shirt. It’s more like September in Colorado than November and we will persevere. Today it was cool with thunderstorms but little rain. I spent the day painting and cleaning the (disgusting) kitchen while Connie painted windows in the AM and worked on the website in the afternoon. We are getting a little frustrated with the lack of support. Connie has expressed our concern with Vanessa and has been placated. Another ten days and we’re off to Namibia. Can’t wait.
Extra! One of the cheetahs gave birth over the week-end to four cubs. She ate two (who might have been stillborn) but two are being cared for by Ann with overnight help from Janelle and Lorette. Shades of the ‘old days’ at DeWildt. Kat from Capetown will take the older cubs and maybe this pair back and hand raise them.
