Day 349: Victoria Falls, Zambia – a Photoblog
Years ago, while I was in high school, I met a missionary named Mark in Pearl River, New York. He was at the African Inland Missions summer training, preparing to fly to Kenya to begin his service. I volunteered for this 3 week training every summer, helping the missionaries’ kids in the nursery and cooking meals in the kitchen. It was always a highlight of my summers. Mark and I became instant friends, and began to correspond via airmail letters. (Do you remember those neat, foldable blue envelopes? Do they even exist today?)… Read More
Safari Highlights: The Zebras
I think I took Zebras for granted the first time I went on safari. There were so many of them, I didn’t notice how unique and beautiful each one was. I was more excited about spotting, you guessed it…the Big Cats. This time around, I took the time to study and appreciate them, and learned a few fun facts. I’ve shared a few of my favorite zebra shots and facts below. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. First off, Zebras are part of the horse family. Maybe you… Read More
Safari Highlights: Leopards and Cheetahs
Ok, now on to the gorgeous Leopards! Below, we are doing a night safari. It was our very first one at Kapama and I didn’t have high hopes that we would spot any Big Cats. It’s especially difficult to spot a leopard hiding in a tree in the middle of the day, as they blend in so well. Try spotting one at night! But it happened and we felt incredibly fortunate that this one was spotted. We were awed by its beauty and sleekness. The photos below were taken within an hour of… Read More
Safari Highlights: Lions, Cubs, and Sunglasses
Photographing the Big Cats is one of the top reasons many people journey half way across the world. Spotting one in the wild can be one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life. It was for me, that is. I am drawn to the Big Cats and find myself wanting to get as close to them as is humanly possible. But there is also a sane part of my brain that recognizes their strength as well as the danger and foolishness of not respecting that these are wild animals. Just look at this guy! We have spoken… Read More
Day 314: Of Churros and Chocolate
We love trying new foods and I was especially excited for the kids try to typical Spanish Churros with chocolate, as it was one of my favorite treats when backpacking through Europe many years ago. These Churros did not disappoint! You have to know to ask for the chocolate, which, although technically a thick hot chocolate drink, is used to dip the Churros in. It is a delicious combination! And what better to top it all off than a hot cup of coffee? Above is one of my childhood friends growing up…. Read More
Day 312: Safari Highlights: Our Cheetah Encounter
This post is dedicated to the beautiful Cheetah we stumbled upon in Sabi Sabi, South Africa. We are thankful to our amazing tracker, Dollen, and our friendly, knowledgeable, fun guide Kosie, who were almost more excited than we were when we found him! Our Cheetah allowed us to watch him for a while and then, without warning, crouched low, became very alert, and shot off in pursuit of something. It all happened so quickly and though we tried to find him again, he had just disappeared. Here is how we began our mornings,… Read More
Day 308: Julius and Irene When No One Else Would
“He has AIDS. His mother doesn’t want him. Nobody does. Will you take him?” These are all too familiar words heard in the slums of Cape Town, South Africa by Irene and Julius. Who are Irene and Julius? I’m glad you asked, because I’d love to share their story! Nineteen years ago, an HIV positive mother, armed with a black plastic bag only, headed to the local train station with the intention of killing herself. Community members contacted the police who picked up the woman, throwing the plastic bag into the back of… Read More
Day 306: Cape Town Area Highlights
In the midst of working alongside Lorna and Marty (When People Make a Difference), we were also able to spend our free time exploring the beauty of Cape Town, the beaches, and a few gorgeous wineries. Here are a few photos from the beauty we experienced: Boulder’s Beach: This area is gorgeous, with green/blue waters and tall mountainous backdrops. Boulder’s Beach inherited its name because of the enormous granite boulders you’ll find on the sheltered beach areas. It is also one of only two areas off the coast of Cape Town where you can stop… Read More
Day 302: When People Make a Difference
A few weeks ago, you may have read my post about ZOE International and making a difference in the lives of others, one hurting soul at a time. If not, see ZOE and Sex Trafficking. More recently, we were in Cape Town, South Africa and had the honor of meeting Lorna and Reinaldo, as well as Marty, three wonderful people who are working hard to make a real difference in and around the slum areas of Cape Town. They graciously met with us and from day one, were investing their time and energy… Read More
Day 300: South African Penguins
South Africa is stunningly beautiful for many different reasons. We were very excited about finally visiting the destination we have sold to our clients for the past few years. For some reason, though, the thought of seeing penguins in the wild really excited me and I could hardly wait to visit both Betty’s Bay and Boulders Beach, two of the only places that penguins breed. Here are a few shots from our time with them. Make sure to visit our “Quick Tips” below. Quick Tips: 1. Boulders Beach, located just 45 minutes… Read More
Deena Gainor
Six Hearts One Journey 
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