Eco-Students at Rest

Our weekly check-in from Jody in the Pufuri Region of South Africa reveals that she was back-up guide for a 9-hour trek this week. This entailed having to carry many litres of water for the students (the load, thankfully, lessening as the water was consumed) through the bush in hot conditions. Jody commented the continual complaints from students throughout the ordeal were entertaining if not annoying, but in light of everything the experience was tough but well worth it. We are in the home stretch of Jody’s 3-month excursion through the African bush and everyone here in the home office eagerly await her return in November.

Elder at the Well

I’ve returned to my new “home”, Makuleke EcoTraining Camp in the Pufuri of South Africa. I’m in my second week and was really happy to find that there were four (4) other Americans in this class, and finally someone older than I am. I have been known as “Mama Mule” here and now I look forward to naming another elder for this tribe. I continue to be amazed at the daily encounters with wildlife here in the South African bush, learning ever more (there is never a dull moment!), and prepping for the final tests next week. My confidence level has risen and I’m often surprising myself when my brain responds with correct answers of complex anthropology or geographic questions. Ah, if only I had known my calling when I was back in college. Well, the present is the present and it is clear that with strong intentions and will, I will reach my goals as the universe permits. I have been receiving texts from the home office re the news, but it all seems so distant when greeted with the sounds and smells of the ancients here in South Africa. Peace to you all and more news from Makuleke soon! Jody