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This was a great trip! I had the opportunity to return to South Africa which has a special place in my heart because it was the first country I visited on the continent. I also had the opportunity to visit 2 more countries (Zambia & Botswana) and learn about their history, challenges and possibilities. The purpose of the faculty study abroad trip is to expose faculty to Africa with the intention of faculty somehow sharing that information with students or incorporating it into their research. This trip opened up so many possibilities for my teaching and research. I'm looking forward to seeing how this seed grows. Africa is so diverse, and I love her for that! I have to keep coming back. Until next time...

A Day in Botswana

On Wednesday, we went to Kasane, Botswana to experience Chobe National Park. We had a 45 minute drive to the border and then took a boat across the river. My first impression of the lodge where we were staying was that it reminded me of Jurassic Park. The vegetation seemed to be supersized, and once again there were way too many wild animals just roaming. We went on a 4 hour safari cruise which was pretty nice. We saw lots of wildlife in the water as well as things along the bank. We got to see an exciting match between a leopard and a water monitor. (The monitor won.) As we rode back to the lodge, we witnessed a beautiful African sunset.

Victoria Falls & Children's Home

On Tuesday, I went to Victoria Falls (one of the 7 natural wonders of the world). It was very beautiful and breathe-taking. It's one of those sites where you can't help but to acknowledge God's awesomeness. I saw several rainbows which confirmed my feelings of spirituality while there. Zimbabwe boarders the Falls as well and you can clearly see the other side. There was a very scary and high bridge that I didn't cross. Besides the fact that I have a fear of heights, it was wet and slippery looking. Other people from the group crossed, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. Later that day we went to a children's home. The home depends largely on donations to operate. The children plant gardens and grow their own vegetables. They sell the surplus at the market. If you are inspired, consider sending a donation (monetary or materials). On the way back to the resort, we saw giraffes just past the main entrance.