Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 10

2018-01-11 | puppy1952

11 January 2018

Last night The Earl said, “I think we should get up slowly tomorrow. Let the children sleep in a bit – they’re exhausted. I readily agreed. But this morning when I emerged for my shower at twenty to six, Shannon was sitting in a camp chair staring at the game at the fence!

When I returned she and Simon had already packed up their tent. To say that Grandpa and I were gob-smacked is an understatement. ” Why are we awaiting, Granny and Grandpa. Let’s get the show on the road!”

So it was quarter past seven when we finally left Satara and hit the road toward Lower Sabie. We stopped for breakfast at Tshokwane where the monkeys were just as naughty as ever. Simon brought the catty – just to scare them. However, one of the staff brought him some pebbles and said – if they annoy you, don’t hesitate to shoot! Music to young boys ears – and to Grandpa’s. I’m happy to say neither of them managed to hit a monkey but they didn’t bother us and we managed to eat without our food being stolen.

When you put your order in and pay for your meal the cashier gives you a card with a picture of an animal on it. When your food is ready they call out the animal and you collect your food.

This is what we received.

We weren’t too sure whether to respond to the word or picture!

Highlights of our morning:-

Tawny Eagle

Black-backed Jackal

Giraffe – always so elegant and attractive

There are no perimeter camping sites at Lower Sabie. But we found one close to the communal kitchen and near enough to the ablution block. We thought we would struggle to find a suitable spot but we were quite spoiled for choice in spite of the rest camp being fully booked. We must have come at just the right time.

It was just after 11 when we arrived and after setting up we stayed in camp until 3:30 pm. We introduced ourselves to the neighbours – a couple with four young sons aged 2 to 12. After we were settled I took our washing to the laundromat. I did some bird watching and had a coffee a the restaurant while I waited for it to be done

Tawny-flanked Prinia

Lower Sabie

View from the board walk at Lower Sabie

When the Earl and I were in The Park in November we did not see a Verreaux’s Eagle-owl and this trip we have been seeking them every day without luck. “This bird is worth 20 points,” I told the kids. Find me one, please.

We were getting a little bored on our drive this afternoon, Simon was fooling around in the car making us laugh when I saw an approaching car slow down and look into a tree, then drive on. We stopped and saw nothing and were about to move on when Shan yelled – It’s a Verreaux’s! I nearly fell out of the car in excitement. But I couldn’t see a thing. She carefully pointed it out before I saw it. Wow – how on earth did she see it! It was a beautiful sighing and it was calling too

We stayed with it for a while when suddenly Simon and Shannon simultaneously said – there’s another one! They pointed that one out to me too. Then Shannon yelled – “A turaco. Flip – I’ve been waiting to see these two birds and now I see them in the same tree!”

We were thrilled with these two birds but soon we found another unusual creature perched high in a tree.

Hooded Vulture

After another quiet stretch some monkeys appeared to entertain us

Before returning to camp we stopped at Sunset Dam which is usually very busy. Today not too much was happening but we did see some fun things.

Baboon having a drink

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What a big mouth you have, Mr Hippo – Would you like a Chomp?

Malachite Kingfisher

Back at camp Simon chopped some wood for our braai, Grandpa lit the fire and I made a salad while Shan went to shower. The neighbours kids came over to ask Simon to join them on a night walk with an older boy from another campsite. So off they went to see owls, nagaapies and scorpions. He had great fun.

Our camp at Lower Sabie

The Earl making braai

Grandpa cooked Kudu steaks and Lamb Medallions on the braai. Shan said Grace and thanked the Kudu for providing us with food!

Enjoying a great feast

Life is Good in The Kruger National Park!

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 9

2018-01-10 | puppy1952

The wind died down last night and did not blow us all away to Oz. We all had a good night’s sleep but the effects of early rising for the past week have taken its toll on our teenage grandchildren. It took a while to coax them out of the tent this morning and it was after six before we went off for our morning drive.

Shan was out of it for the first hour of the day!!

We did a short morning drive along the S100, checked out the Leopard/Hyaena kill and then went back to camp. These are the highlights:-

Vultures were feasting on the leftovers of the leopard’s kill.

We also found some white storks. I imagine they’d just made a delivery of babies to some Park Parents.

We found a spot where there was a Painted Snipe, Grey Heron, African Black Crake and Fish Eagle.

Painted Snipe

Fish Eagle

Some other birding delights of the day were:-

Finally I got a half decent photo of a Magpie Shrike

Carmine bee-eaters

Amur Falcon

Then we had an encounter with a bull elephant in musth. He owned the road and just kept coming toward us. “Reverse, Grandpa!” yelled the kids. “We’re going to die!” moaned Shannon. “Tell my parents I love them!’

Slightly scary when a giant heads straight for your vehicle

While they were freaking out they both kept their cameras trained on the scene videoing the drama. There were other cars on the road too and we all just gave the Elllie his space and reversed until he decided he’d had enough fun and went off into the bush.

The commentary on the video was hilarious. “I don’t know who will see this but at least you will know how I died. This is freaking terrifying! Grandpa – reverse faster. (chuckles from Grandpa) Don’t worry kids he’s not angry he won’t do anything. (from Grandma) That’s was the last crushed people said (from Shan) Lots of nervous laughter.

It all lasted about three minutes and when it was over the kids said – Man that was scary! – But really we were in no danger. This was no angry, charging elephant.

Back at camp we had breakfast and spent a few hours chilling before going out again at 3. It was not a very exciting afternoon – probably just as well after the morning drama. The highlight was coming across a mommy hyaena with cubs

I was also thrilled to get the African Hawk Eagle

The weather was cold again today but by this evening we could see that it was clearing. The Earl cooked a chicken casserole for supper. An elephant passed by the fence. He was so silent that had the neighbours not alerted us we would not have seen him. It is such fun being close to the fence.

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 8

2018-01-09 | puppy1952

What a night!! The wind got up and blew all night rocking the caravan and preventing us from getting a decent amount of sleep. There was thunder and lightening too but no rain. This morning Shan and Simon looked totally wrecked. “I thought the tent was going to be blown away with me in it never to be seen again!’ she complained. “Well, ” said I ” You would just have been taken off to the Land of Oz and there you would have met a lion with no courage so you’d have been perfectly safe!” She was not amused.

“Tonight I’m sleeping in your bed!” said Si.

Well I was actually waiting for that to happen but no little bodies found there way in. They were too scared to move! I did peep through my window to see if they were okay and all seemed well and it seems they did survive!

We left camp closer to 7 than 6 this morning. It was still blowing and it was overcast and much cooler than yesterday which was a relief. But the wind was still hectic. Travelling in the car was more comfortable than staying at the campsite! We did a short loop, returned for breakfast which Grandpa cooked and then went straight out again, taking our left overs with us for lunch.

On our Before Breakfast Drive we had some lovely sightings of the usual gang but these are the highlights.

We saw first one bull elephant and then another.

Why had it got chunks out of its ears, Shan wanted to know. And why is the one tusk so worn out.

The wear and tear on the tusks is from using it to dig and if the elephant is right dominant the right tusk will be more worn than the left and vice versa. I’m not sure but many of them do.

The second bull, though, had ears and tusks in good condition. That’s because he takes care of himself and brushes with Colgate – I joked.

Simon earned more points by spotting brown hooded parrots for us.

Giraffe entertained us at regular intervals

A red-crested korhaan caught a juicy grasshopper for breakfast

A turtle out of water – probably seeking a new pond.

After breakfast we planned on doing a long loop but we were too tired to finish it so took a short cut home. It was a good choice as we had some lovely sightings on the changed route.

We saw a jeep jockey stopped on the side of the road and asked him what they were looking at. “A tortoise,” he said. “But 1km from here you will find some ‘nice’ lions.

“Drive,” Grandpa, “Drive!” yelled the kids. Much to their disgust Grandpa took off very slowly. Just look for cars, he said. Then you’ll know we’ve found them. Simon saw the cars first and then spotted a sleeping lion some distance before the group of cars and a little way off next to a waterhole.

First a back view – but it was a male which was a good sign

Then another male fast asleep

And another

We moved closer and found a good spot to see yet more male lions. There were five altogether – a bachelor pride!

Good Morning Your Majesty

It was time to stop and stare. I climbed over the seat and got the ice creams out of the car freezer.

Why did I get the deformed one? You all got healthy ones!

Shan decided to take a photograph of hers – Ice cream in the bush-veld.

“My grandparents stop for birds. I stop for ice cream”

After enjoying our lion and ice cream we moved on and enjoyed some more birds

European Bee-eater

My favourite small antelope is the Steenbok. They are usually solitary but sometimes mating pairs will be seen together. This morning we got a pair.

They are very shy and try to hide

Mr Steenbok thinks I can’t see him

Mrs Steenbok showed herself

Soon after this we came upon another traffic jam. “What do you think we will see?” I asked. “Wild Dog.” said Simon. “Cheetah!” said Shan. “Lion” said Earl. “Leopard.” said I.

Simon saw them first and called – Wild Dog. I saw them second and called Leopard. Then I changed it to Cheetah. – Shan was right! Simon got 20 for spotting them first and Shan 10 for the right guess.

There were six on a kill – A mom and five almost fully grown cubs. Shan had been dying to see cheetah and they were on my side of the car so I quickly swapped places with her so she could fully enjoy them.

Shan getting some good shots

It was quite a feast

These three had full tummies and were just resting

A driver in a car facing us wanted to leave and tried to start her car. Uh oh – The battery was flat. She was devastated and put her head on the steering wheel and looked like she was about to burst into tears. Her companion too looked distressed. I put my head out of the window and called, “Don’t worry! As soon as we can my husband will help you. We have jump leads.” She put her hands together in thanks. I think they were French tourists.

The cheetahs finished their meal and were getting restless. The Earl opened the door and climbed up to get the leads out of the box on top of the roof. Simon and Shannon freaked. “Grandpa – the cheetahs – they’ll eat you!” “Don’t worry kids, the cheetahs’ tummies are full – they won’t want to eat a tough old man like Grandpa.” Other tourists looked on in horror. I indicated to them that the other car needed help and they all nodded in wonder.

The cheetahs looked on too and started to move away from their kill. They kept a wary eye on The Earl and the young man from the other car but made no attempt to attack. They were, I think, more afraid of them than they of the cheetahs. If you zoom in on the photo you can see a blurred image of them staring at the goings on.

The Earl fetching the jump leads

Doing the necessary while the cheetahs look on

Some of the other tourists looked horrified that the assistance happened so near a group of predators, but they were far enough away for the two men to hop back into the cars if they approached.

When got back to camp at around two o’clock, our neighbour approached us.

“Have you done the S100?” she asked.

“Only yesterday.” we replied.

“Well today a leopard killed a zebra near the waterhole. Go quickly and you might see it.”

The kids were not keen to go out yet again and The Earl needed a nap so it was after 4 o’clock when we decided to see what was happening on the infamous S 100. We couldn’t have timed it better. We came upon the traffic jam at said waterhole.
“Surely the leopard won’t still be here.” I said.

“It’s a hyaena!” called Simon and he was right. No sign of the leopard at all. We managed to get a really nice position and had perfect views of the hyaena working away at the zebra kill. In the trees and on the ground there were also vultures waiting anxiously for their turn to get at the carcass.

This zebra is rather delicious

The undertakers of the bush

The hyaena was really tucking in and we were enjoying the action when The Earl suddenly said, “Hey, I can see the leopard.” And he carefully described where he saw some spots under a nearby tree. How he spotted it, I do not know. It was simply a collection of spots with ears the twitched from time to time. We couldn’t believe it!

“Why is the leopard allowing the hyaena to eat his dinner?” the kids wanted to know. We explained that this often happens to leopards. They make the kill and unless he gets it up a tree quickly other predators steal it from him. He was clearly exhausted and lying under the tree unable to challenge the thief.

But after about half an hour something amazing happened. The hyaena dragged part of the kill toward the tree where the leopard was lying. As soon as he passed the spot, the leopard got up and went to the kill where he started eating, unchallenged by the thief.

Leopard returning to his kill

Tucking in to a lovely meal

Then to our immense surprise the hyaena left the piece he’d dragged away. We expected to see a scuffle between the two predators but instead the leopard allowed the hyaena to join him at the table. “A mixed species dinner date!’ said Shan.

Hyaena and Leopard sharing a meal!

This went on for some time and then the leopard left the table and went to chew on what Hyaena had left in front of the tree!

I wonder if these two creatures are friends. Did Leopard say – Hey, Hyaena – You’re welcome to my zebra – it’s too much for one leopard. You’ve got good teeth and jaws – make a start on it and I’ll join you later.

There certainly was no attempt by either to chase the other away. They really were content to share. Sharing, is after all, caring! I just wonder if they ended up inviting the vultures to finish it off when they were done. We didn’t have time to find out as gate closing time was fast approaching. We were, however, thrilled to see what we did.

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 7

2018-01-08 | puppy1952

8 January 2018

The past three day have been particularly HOT. Today the mercury reached 43 degrees C. Even the evenings are hot and we remain scantily dressed even outdoors. This is a huge contrast to the cold and wet December we had in Kokstad!

Simon, still wet from a swim, helping Grandpa with dinner last night

It is a 92 km drive from Skukuza to Satara. We were packed up and ready to leave at 6:30 am and it was already hot.

Meet Roger – he travels everywhere with his friend Simon and keeps us all amused when the outdoor wildlife are hiding from view.

Roger dislikes confined spaces so holds on tightly to the roof and peaks at us through the window. He loves to let the wind blow through his fur.

His baboon cousins enjoy eating the fruit of the sausage tree

This guy has a huge appetite for them

We arrived at Satara around 10 ish and set up as quickly as we could in the heat of the day. The only thing to do on a day like this is to find aircon or swim! I took the kids to the pool while Grandpa napped then did the laundry.

We set off for a game drive just after three. Hooray for modern motorcars with effective climate control. The S100 is famous in The Kruger Park and usually produces excellent sightings. We did see lots of plains animals but today the predators evaded us.

The highlight of the day was finding the rare and endangered Painted Snipe. I spotted him with some other waders while watching bee eaters and kingfishers flying and dipping into the river.

Our camp is right next to the fence and this evening the kids were thrilled to spot a hyena walking past. We hoped to get sites next to the fence in each camp but at this time of the year that is not easy as the best sites get snapped up very quickly. We were lucky to get this spot and I’m glad that the kids will experience being closer to the wildlife at night.

Tomorrow, we’re hoping it will be a little cooler – even a thunderstorm to cool things down would be welcome.

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 6

2018-01-07 | puppy1952

Today it was HOT. The mercury rose to 40 degrees C. It has been in the mid to high thirties and we’ve coped but today – phew – really hot!

Our morning began late as we’d decided today would be a rest day. We told the kids to wake us when they were ready to rise and shine. “Yes!” said Shannon “That will be well after 9 o’clock!”

“I’ll get up at about 8 and have a morning swim then come and wake you.” said Simon.

So what a surprise when I heard the caravan door open around 6 ish. Simon had come to get his towel and he and Shan went off for a swim. They returned at 7 and went to get boiling water from the communal kitchen to make us coffee. To say we were impressed would be an understatement! Well – they’re rural kids so I guess we shouldn’t be surprised!

We did take it slowly today. We set off just before 8, popped into Lake Panic which was very quiet and then went for a walk at The Nursery which was lovely.

We returned to Camp at ten and Grandpa cooked us a scrumptious breakfast. We spent the rest of the morning chilling in camp – swimming, editing photographs, checking Facebook etc. Grandpa and I had a nap and when we woke up we gave the kids lunch and then went for a yet another swim. We were ready to go out for a game drive just before three.

Unless we’re in the pool or the air conditioned caravan it is actually cooler driving in the car. In the heat of the day, though, animal sightings can be slow. What one does see is creatures crowded under the shadiest trees they can find, wallowing in waterholes or lying asleep in the shade of overhanging rocks or trees.

Shannon’s favourite buck is the Kudu. We always have to stop to take photo of these magnificent creatures. She loves the antlers of the males and the pretty faces of the females.

In the times when sightings are thin, I read interesting facts about the animals out loud to the kids. Shannon remembered that Kudu do not run straight away when they sense or see a predator. They stop and look at him and only run when he starts to chase. Usually a predator gives up if he has been spotted by his prey.

When we saw two females cross in front of us we once again had to stop for Shannon’s pleasure. On the other side of the road they stood stock still and stared into the bush. “They must have seen or smelled a predator,” said Shan excitedly.
“Let’s wait a few minutes to see what happens,” I insisted when Grandpa wanted to move on.

We watched as the kudu looked this way and that and just didn’t move at all. Then Grandpa started to move the car. “Stop!” said Simon ” I see something. It might be a dead animal!’

But it wasn’t.

Fast asleep and oblivious of kudu or humans

The buck could smell the lioness but had no idea where she was and we wouldn’t have either had we not read the signs that something was there somewhere. Shannon said – It’s a group effort – Grandpa’s driving skills – Not knocking the kudu over and killing our chances of seeing the lion. Gran insisting that we wait to see what the kudu had sensed. And Simon’s Eagle Eyes for spotting the sleeping lion!

We were the first ones to see this sleeping beauty and what a traffic jam we caused and so much pointing out to where the well camouflaged creature lay. We left them all and went off chuckling that a lazy lion could cause so much interest.

We continued to enjoy our sightings.

Male Nyala

Nyala female with baby

Blond Tawny Eagle on a nest

Hippo

Marabou Stork

As we were travelling along we suddenly came upon some elephants with babies. There was a car ahead of us and she was standing still. A large mother and baby were blocking the way and soon others joined them. For twenty minutes the elephants simply stood about not allowing anybody to pass.

Elephant Road Block

What were they thinking? Ha – let’s have some fun with the tourists!

Then they started walking slowly and calmly along the road toward the cars. Everybody simple reversed not daring to try to pass by them.

But after scaring us all silly they slipped onto the side of the road and ambled off into the bush. Ha Ha – elephants. Very funny!

After enjoying some baboons, monkeys, giraffe and birds we returned to camp along the road where we’d seen the sleeping lion. Sure enough there were a number of cars parked at the spot and when we got there we saw that ‘our’ lion had moved to another spot but was still fast asleep.

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We had a perfect view of her and I said – Let’s wait five minutes. She might wake up. And she did.

Is nap time over?

What are you all staring at?

It was almost gate closing time so we left our beauty to get over her sleepiness and headed back to camp. What a stunning rest day we had!

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 5

2018-01-06 | puppy1952

6 January 2018

Our day started with a bit of drama. We were late getting into the car and were just leaving camp when I realised that my binoculars were missing. They must be in the caravan – we must go back and so we did – but they were nowhere to be seen. Last night I’d left my handbag on the table outside the caravan. Nothing had been taken. How could my binoculars be gone! I was almost in tears as we set off without them. Then just before exiting through the gate The Earl missed his wallet. Oh no! We raced back to the caravan and I dashed in to retrieve it – and YES – My binoculars were hiding there too! They were under a towel that I hadn’t noticed in my first search!

It was 6:30 and we were headed toward Tshokwane.

Simon – still in the lead with his sightings scores – did not let us down. He kept on spotting birds and animals for an hour or so and then he began to fade. What was wrong? A tummy ache, I fear. We almost turned back but he insisted that he would be okay. He would just have a sleep in the car. The only thing that cheered him up was when we came upon a clan of hyenas on a kill. They were not easy to see because of the trees but they were close enough for us to enjoy.

Soon after that we arrived at Tshokwane and Simon ate a Greek Salad and perked up considerably for the rest of the morning.

We returned to camp at about 11:30 and the kids went swimming, Gramps had a nap and I did the laundry. After lunch and chores were done we all went back to the pool.

Here are the highlights of our morning.

10 Points to Grandpa for getting me this Jacobin Cuckoo

Little Bee-eater – A 10 for Simon

Ellies having fun

Ten for Shan – Goliath Heron

Beware of the Spelling Police – a misprint on our calling card

Uh Oh -What’s an eliphant? when you order breakfast at Tshokwane they give you an animal card and call it’s name when it’s ready.

Cries of disgust when I told the kids that Marabou Storks pee on their legs to keep cool

They also were a tad horrified at it’s habits. They stab flamingos in their backs then drown them before dismembering and eating them – No way, Gran!

Klipspringers mate for life – Just like Gran and Grandp

Klipspringers mark their territory with the scent gland below its eyes. These two are clearly a pair. They would make sure no other of their species enter their territory.

White backed vulture drying its wings

On a river bridge – a lovely pied kingfisher

Shan got me my favourite bee-eater – 10 points to her!

After cooling off in the pool, tidying the caravan and sorting out the washing we set off for a short afternoon drive.

We found frolicking zebra, plenty of impala, elephants, wildebeest and lots of birds

A happy heffalump

A very cute baby Vervet Monkey

Mommy will take care of me!

We were about to turn left when we noticed some stationary cars to the right so decided to check out what they were looking at. At first we saw nothing and asked the occupants of a car what they’d seen. They didn’t have binoculars and said there was an animal over there! Simon spotted it immediately.

A lazy leopard taking an afternoon nap

After waiting 10 minutes for it to wake up we gave up and headed toward Lake Panic. Once again we saw some stationary cars. What can you see?

Hyena napping under a bush.

We’ve visited Lake Panic many times before and it has always been exciting. Today I said to Shan – It’s a bit quiet here today – not much happening. At the end of an hour she said – So this is what you call quiet! Well if you don’t know the place …. No – Lake Panic never disappoints.

White faced ducks and a jacana

Walking on water – Daddy Jacana

Green-backed heron

Daddy Jacana takes the chicks under his wing

Baby Jacana

Just before entering the gate at Skukuza we spotted The Three Little Pigs trotting up the road.

Warthogs on a mission

Because we stopped for them we noticed some lapwings – well camouflaged – and we almost dismissed them for common crowned lapwings.

Senegal Lapwing

The weather has been really hot with temperatures getting up to 38 degrees C. Right now it is 10 pm and I am sitting outdoors without a fleece. It is bliss.

The past five days have been lovely but by 8 the kids are exhausted and so are we! Tomorrow we will have a rest day!

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 4

2018-01-06 | puppy1952

5 January 2018

Yesterday’s scores were as follows – Simon in the lead with 70 points. Grandpa has 64 and Shannon 55. Grandpa was annoyed as at first we scored him the higher score but Si reminded us that we hadn’t entered the Walk points which pushed him ahead. Grandpa hadn’t done the whole walk but he did score for creatures he saw first before he went back to the caravan and none were scored after that!

Today we moved to Skukuza Rest Camp. It was a beautiful day with temperatures into the thirties. Packing up the caravan and tent was fast and efficient and we left Berg en Dal at 6:20 and made our way quickly along the tar road arriving at 8:30. We did not stop much along the way.

Check in at Skukuza was quick and efficient. We found a campsite next to the swimming pool and an attendant came to help us set up. We were done quickly and then walked to the shop for ice cream. It was really hot! We decided to rest and swim and only to go out after 1 pm. We were pretty sure the animals would be sleeping in the shade and not showing themselves in the middle of the day.

Shan enjoying the water – Simon kept hiding from the camera

After the kids and I swam and Grandpa napped we set off to see what we could find. Today turned out to have long stretches with absolutely no sightings – not even a bird! Of course there were some interesting things and we were thrilled to get the following:

Black shouldered kite

White-headed Vulture

The monkeys had the kids in fits of laughter

The baboons behave like humans!

Elephants are always fun

The oddest duck ever – Knob-billed duck

Usually it’s okay to do the distance but today it was really hot and the ‘dry spells’ of no sightings began to work on the patience of the un-caged kids in the back seat. Concentration was lost, giggling and high jinks took it’s place. How much longer became the plaintive cry. And then — up ahead a traffic jam. A naughty tourist was sitting on the roof of her car – Her binoculars were trained on something in the distance. We were next to a river with a rocky bank. “There are supposed to be lions here,” she said. “But I can’t see them.” Well if from her vantage point she couldn’t, what chance would we have. We asked some others and they too said they’re here but out of sight.

Grandpa tried to maneuver the car into a better position and then he said, “What’s that walking toward us!”

All attention went from the elusive lions to what suddenly appeared and we were the first to see him!

The leopard was quite unconcerned about the interest paid to him by the tourists

We watched this magnificent creature of the wild nonchalantly walking past the cars. He stopped to sniff and spray and mark his territory and the excitement caused was phenomenal. It was 15 minutes to gate closing time so once we’d absorbed the sighting we made our way quickly back to camp. What a great way to end our day.

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 3

2018-01-05 | puppy1952

4 January 2018

I think The Earl and I have created two monsters. On this trip we’d decided that we would consider the needs of our young grandchildren. We would not stop for every little bird nor have long discussions deciding on its exact species. We would not travel too slowly, nor stay out too long. We did not want our grandkids to become bored. We wanted to encourage them to love the natural world and were determined not to put them off with our fanaticism. We need not have worried.

Stop Grandpa – look at this bird – is the constant cry we hear. And when other inconsiderate tourists race past in front of us and spoil a sighting it’s lucky they can’t hear the indignation coming from our kids. “What’s wrong with these people? Why don’t they ask what we’re looking at? Why are they chasing our birds away?”

Not everybody wants to look at birds, we explain.

They don’t know what they’re missing comes the reply!

Now they want to create a sign to put on the back of the car – Warning! Grumpy old man in driver’s seat and uncaged grandkids in the back seat. Will not be held responsible for what they will do to you if you disturb their birds! Pass slowly and at your peril!

They rule the outings – Go slower, Grandpa. Okay you can put your foot down now. Stop – Did you hear me – I said STOP – there’s a bird! Why are you moving – we’re not done yet. Wait I want to get the photo!

No – they’re not bored – they have us in fits of laughter with their comments and teasing. And clearly they are enjoying the wildlife and birds as much as we are.

Simon got 10 points for spotting this Grey Hornbill

Not our first Burchell’s Coucal so only 1 point

1 point for this ever present Woodland’s Kingfisher

No points for The iconic Lilac Breasted Roller

Now Grandpa is a strange specimen – if he comes upon an elephant unexpectedly he has a nervous breakdown and gives them a wide birth. But if he sees then in advance he has no fear about coming up quite close. Experience has taught him to read their mood – but the grandkids don’t know this. So when Gramps gets too close, there is pandemonium in the car. “You’re too close! He’s going to charge. I’m going to die! Go grandpa, go!” Grandpa just laughs and of course we are all perfectly safe and he just like to wind the kids up!

Look at that long tusk! It’s right next to Shan’s window!

Today though we had a wonderful experience with a large herd who milled around us. They are such gentle giants and as long as we respect them they respect us.

P1120595

Giraffe are a favourite with Shannon and me. They are such elegant long-necked beauties. Today we found them lying with their legs folded under them while they held their long necks up. They were surrounded by zebra and impala and all the creatures were getting along just fine.

Two oxpeckers giving a giraffe a beauty treatment

Shall I pluck your eyebrows?

The zebra were in frisky mood and tussled with each other. Clearly the young males were trying to prove to each other who was top of the pecking order. It was lovely to see the interaction.

We met Nick and Dawie at Afsaal for breakfast this morning. They were in for a day visit and made us jealous because they’d seen lion as they entered the park!

But we were delighted to find a strange bird walking in slow motion across the road. We’d never seen one of these before. Dawie helped us identify it.

Kurrichane Buttonquail

At Afsaal Picnic Site – Dawie, Shannon, Nick, Simon, Gran and Grandpa

Back at Berg en Dal the kids and I did the Dam Walk. We saw Egyptian geese, hippo, crocodile, terrapins elephant, water thick-knees and a marabou Stork.

Egyptian Geese

Marabou Stork

We ended our lovely day with a short drive after 4 o’clock and returned to have a braai before turning in for an early night. Tomorrow we head to Skukuza.

Kruger Adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan – Day 2

2018-01-04 | puppy1952

3 January 2018

How lovely it was to sleep in our caravan again last night. There is something very special about falling asleep to the sound of laughing hyena!

Simon and Shannon reported to having had an excellent night in the tent but were a bit freaked out about having to rise at the rude hour of 5:30 am! We had not yet bought milk so they refused coffee but munched on a rusk and we were off on a game drive just after 6. All sleepiness was gone when Grandpa started spotting the first birds. Oh no – this was not good enough – the competition was on and Simon was the hero when he got us a booted eagle!

We did the Majulu loop which was not as productive as it usually is probably due to the overcast conditions. However, we were pleased with what we did see.

Our breakfast stop was Afsaal and our favourite waitress Mpumbe hugged us tightly when she saw we were back.. The grandkids got hugs too and she was just as indulgent to their needs as she always is to ours.

It was a long day out today as we misjudged how long it would take to return along the crocodile river route. But we had some lovely sightings and as it was our first full day it went down well with the kids. From now on we will be sure to make the trips shorter!

Booted Eagle we think

The kids love the baby animals

Thrills us every time – Lilac breasted roller

Okay – so enough already – you only get points for the first one seen each day! Golden breasted bunting

There are a few white storks about

Simon found the Martial in the same tree as yesterday!

Shannon asked if we would see a chameleon. Simon said he remembered seeing one on our visit six years ago. “Remember, Gran. It was crossing the road very slowly and a lady got out of her car to move it out the way. And Grandpa told her it was a silly thing to do!”

No, I didn’t remember and I know we haven’t seen chameleons in the park since then. But not half an hour later, what should cross over the road, very slowly in front of us but – yes – a chameleon!

The Ground Hornbill is a fascinating bird and today we got a whole family of them. What made the sighting extra fun was that they were carrying frogs home for breakfast.

Bee-eater, yelled Shan – and there she was in all her beauty.

European Bee-eater

Wood Sandpiper

Female Knob-billed Duck – Male has a knob on bill

White-faced Duck

Lovely to find a male water buck who posed handsomely

And a hippo came out of the water to graze

A wattled lapwing showing off his wattles

Hooray that this chap is still with us – long may he and his species survive

And finally my personal favourite – the saddle-billed stork

We were pretty whacked after our long day out. Grandpa cooked us a delicious chicken dish for supper and then it was off to bed.

Kruger adventure with Grandpa, Gran, Simon and Shan

2018-01-03 | puppy1952

2 January 2018

“It’s almost six years since you visited Kruger National Park with us, Shannon and Simon. Do you remember it!” we asked our grandchildren a few months ago.

“Oh yes! They replied. It was with Jay and Joshua and we had fun!” said Shan.

“I was only seven,” said Si “But I remember everything.”

“Would you like to go again?” we suggested. “Yes please!” came the enthusiastic reply. “I think I’m old enough to enjoy it even more!” said Si and I wondered how much he really did remember. Quite a lot,it turned out as he repeated stories during our current trip that even I had forgotten. And yes – the last trip with all four of them was amazing. The older boys kept their younger cousins entertained in the car and it was one of the best trips Grandpa and I had ever had. It was a short trip as they were so young and perhaps that was why it was so successful.

Our new adventure began yesterday when we packed Simon now 13 into the car at 6:00 am and went to collect his sister, now almost 16 from Underberg where she had spent New Year’s Eve with friends. The drive from Kokstad to Underberg at the foot of the Drakensberg is one of the prettiest in the country. Shan was sleepy-eyed after seeing the New Year in but raring to go when we got there just after seven. What a stunning place she’d had the privilege of staying at.

Beautiful view on the Kokstad to Underberg route

Dam on the property where Shannon stayed

We were blessed with stunning weather and as it was New Year’s Day there were very few trucks on the road. Some of the potholes had been repaired and the toll roads were in pristine condition. The entire route through KZN and Mpumalanga is stunning and if it weren’t for the stretches where we had to play Dodge the Pothole it would be perfect. Now that the kids are older we had very few complaints about how long it was all taking. We did consider their needs for food food and drink though and stopped for meals and snacks along the way. Our breakfast stop at The Midlands Kitchen was great – highly recommend this stop for those travelling this way.

We were doing so well that we decided that instead of stopping at five at Middelburg we’d change our route and go on to Nelspruit. It would mean an extra hour of driving but then we’d have very little time in the car the next day. I quickly searched Bookings.Com for accommodation, found something suitable and cancelled the Travel Lodge in Middelburg.

Because it was done in a hurry we didn’t really know what we were getting. I asked for two adult and two teenagers and got a family room with a double bed and a double bunk. The bathroom was only semi-private – no door – and there was an open plan kitchenette. It was clean and only cost R500 for the four of us. Shan looked a bit traumatized that she might have to have her grandfather snoring right next to her ear but I said we’d make up for the cheap accommodation by spending the savings on a meal out. What would they like? Pizza, burgers or sushi. Sushi won hands down and we went to John Dory’s at a mall 6km away. And yes it was good! Si wanted to know how to use chop sticks so I showed him and he got it right straight away. Grandpa said he could just use his fingers like he did but Shan insisted he be a gentleman and use his utensils! So grandpa too learned a new skill last night!

This is so easy!

It was very hot last night. There was no aircon in our Budget accommodation and it took a while for us all to fall asleep. Then at 4:00 am we all woke with a start when the most horrendous thunder storm woke us from our troubled slumbers. I’m sure the house was struck twice by lightning. It went on for about an hour. I went back to sleep at 5 and woke again at 7. Simon accused grandpa of snoring. “I did not!” Declared Grumpy. ” “Yes you did” – Said Si and played a recording he’d made on Grumpy’s own phone!

Breakfast was a grand affair at the local Wimpy. Last night at John Dory’s Si had been given a Kiddie’s Menu – He’d complained and declared he was now 13 and no longer ordered Baby Stuff. But this morning he didn’t murmur about ordering from the junior menu as he would get a free toy! And he wanted it! So he ordered a Baby Cino and mini ribs! Quite adequate that was too!

Oh that in between age!

It was raining when we left but eased off when we got to White River. First we had tea with the Maartens. Nick had arranged for us to leave our caravan with a friend of his after our trip in November. After tea he came with us to fetch it. It was a bit tricky maneuvering the caravan out of the driveway but we made it. It missed the carport pole by a hair’s breadth.

Then we were off to Malelane Gate. It poured almost all the way there. But as luck would have it by the time we’d checked in at Malelane Gate and Berg en Dal Rest Camp, it stopped to allow us to set up camp. The kids were amazing and after helping us with the caravan had their tent up and mattresses pumped in a jiffy.

All set up and ready for three nights in Berg en Dal

It was four o’clock when we were done and ready to go for an afternoon drive. We got take aways from the restaurant and then set off.

We’ve worked out a point system – first one to spot certain game get points depending on how rare said animal is. Simon is with his keen eagle eyes was soon in the lead. Grandpa is determined to beat him tomorrow.

Today was just a short drive but we got elephant and rhino as well as giraffe, bush buck, impala and zebra. Lots of birds of course but the highlight was the Martial Eagle.

Our lovely martial eagle

A favourite of us all

Ugly to some but we love the adorable warthog

European Roller

Struggling to escape extinction

We had a braai for supper and then Grandpa and Simon hit the hay while Shan and I stayed up a little longer but followed them pretty soon after!

More of our adventures to follow!

Stream of Consciousness 30 December 2017

2017-12-30 | puppy1952

The Stream of consciousness prompt this week is Resolution.

I like to set goals and make New Year Resolutions but last year I decided not to. All I did was resolve to let the year take me where it wanted to. Que Sera Sera – Whatever will be will be. My mom used to say this line from the Doris Day song whenever I asked her what would happen in the future. And of course that is exactly right. Nevertheless it is nice to have a plan.

But things did not go according to plan in 2016 so I decided after all the dramas that we went through to simply be in 2017. Our daughter thought it would be a good idea if we stayed still for a at least six months. We live in a quiet seaside place. We’re retired. “Stay at home!” she advised. ” Take leisurely walks on the beach. Rock in your rocking chairs on the stoop. Watch that expensive DSTV you’ve got! And let my daddy get well!”

Well we lasted just short of five months before taking our first tentative steps out into the world again – firstly with a week’s week’s caravan trip to The Free State. From then on there was no stopping us. Cape Town saw us a few times. We visited the hot springs in Warmwaterberg, had an adventure with friends in Addo Elephant Park and spent two weeks in Thailand.

When home we were not idle. We did some alterations to our home and worked hard on getting our garden into shape. More of this in 2018.

We ended the year on a high note with a four week sojourn in The Kruger National Park with our new caravan. At the moment we’re relaxing with our kids in KZN.

The Earl did have several hiccups with health but each was successfully dealt with and he is now back to his normal self and raring to go on more and more trips.

Our resolution for 2018 is also on the lines of Che Sera Sear. We shall wait and see what comes up and we will go with the flow. We’re starting 2018 with two weeks caravanning in KNP with our grandchildren, Shannon and Simon. From there – anything is possible.

One thing is for sure though – we resolve to live healthily, be active and do new things but also to listen to our bodies and to rest when we need to.

Happy New Year everybody. May you have a fun-filled, healthy and adventurous 2018.

Kokstad Christmas – Part 2

2017-12-26 | puppy1952

The weather on Christmas morning was a tad warmer than it had been. The kids woke us around 7 ish and said coffee would be served in front of The Tree. So we got up and started to get into our Christmas finery. The Earl put his foot into his shoe and said – “I can’t get my foot in – what’s in here?”

A frog in his shoe!

After releasing that little problem we headed over for the fun bit.

Pre-Breakfast snacks

The Tree

Simon and Grandpa waiting to start

Shan looking gorgeous in her Christmas outfit

Not to big to sit on Grampy’s lap

Our Beautiful Rural Family

Once fortified with Christmas cake, mince pies and coffee, we opened our gifts. The process more than the actual gifts gave us the most pleasure.

The cats gave Shan a name for her bedroom! Si got one too.

Gran and Grampy thrilled with a book all about The Kruger National Park

Military vehicle card game for Si

And some more Lego – which he just loves

After the gift opening ceremony a light brekkie was served. I decided to skip it – I mean why eat oats when mince pies are so yummy!

Soon it was time to join the Bakers on the other side of Kaag’s Post for a Christmas Braai. We pooled our chops, boerewors, carrot and pineapple salad and potato and butternut bake to the volume of food that others had brought. Of course there was way too much but it was all delicious and yes in spite of all good intentions we over-indulged on all the good stuff!

Sean seeing to the braai

Corne cooking pork on the Weber

Friends of the Bakers Corne and his lovely wife and kids joined us this year. Robyn and Shan took the little girls horse riding on the front lawn.

The Bakers are soon to be leaving Kokstad and relocating to George so it was the last time we would be celebrating Christmas at their beautiful home. Shan had us all write a sentence about the years of friendship we’ve had with them, printed out some memorable photographs and made the most stunning farewell card for them.

The Bakers

Robyn reads the card

I think the Bakers loved it. Farewell Nicoline, Sean, Scott and Robyn. We won’t be seeing you in Kokstad again but George is not so far away from Struisbaai so we hope to catch in The Western Cape soon.

We feast again!

You would think that after lunch nobody would want to move for the next few hours – but not these three young families. They all went onto the front lawn and had an energetic game of soccer – an excellent way to work off the excess.

A fun game of soccer

Even the dogs joined in

Why don’t the humans give us the ball

And in the end a human pile-up!

What a great day it was. It was cold by the time 5 o’clock came round but nothing could spoil our lovely Christmas.

Today we continued with celebrations when Andrew, Barbara and Shirl came over to share a roast gammon with us. And for the rest of the week, I believe we will be living on leftovers!

Merry Christmas everyone. Hope you all had a wonderful time with family and friends.