tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12251847753261870012011-11-27T06:59:41.943+02:0019°S 13' 48" 23°E 22' 23.6"Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.comBlogger981100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-78040592641567282992010-04-12T22:00:00.004+02:002011-03-21T20:10:27.544+02:00

This was just posted on the Earth-touch website and I found humorously accurate to my experience at base Camp in Moremi (after they were situated at horse safaris) and my experience with said film crew boys. A brilliant explanation/description by Sarah at horse safaris. I am mostly just posting this for my own reference and memory. It made me laugh out loud."In the early days of Earth Touch the

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-483776878024212322010-03-15T17:03:00.004+02:002011-03-21T20:10:27.547+02:00

I am aware that I am long overdue for a post about my return home and have been pondering it daily. To follow soon, I promise.In the mean time a video was posted on the Earth-Touch site of the drive from Maun to Moremi that I often endured. It was great to watch and it brought back fond memories. Though I can't say it does it complete justice as the drive was always that of much wild game,

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-68150748855610673222009-12-28T20:52:00.001+02:002011-11-24T19:45:41.198+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-64841457412660833902009-11-08T15:24:00.009+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.183+02:00

I arrived in Africa at possibly the most fragile time of my life and my entire being. My father having died only months prior, left me raw, confused, uncertain and scared. Arriving in the middle of the African bush to live in absolute simplicity, in a tent, amongst nature, wildlife, a group of complete strangers, in a foreign land, a foreign country and all the natural forces of mother nature put

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-67730243207503280642009-11-07T15:17:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:10:27.553+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-38321393836403964992009-11-06T15:21:00.005+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.189+02:00

In all my time in Africa I've asked many to help me understand Apartheid. I've come to the conclusion that it may very well be impossible to ever fully understand. Even after my morning today the Apartheid museum. To me it's incomprehensible. And as it also seems to many white south africans my age. Because of censorship many of them were sheltered from it's harsh sting unable to really tell me

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-58583740185364074392009-11-02T20:25:00.004+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.192+02:00

Driving back from Victoria Falls through Zimbabwe to South Africa provided me with the stark contrast of one of Africa’s most beautiful landscape and people vs. the current sate of affairs of what can happen when rulers behave badly and leave it’s people in a bleak reality. I can only provide what little information I have learnt along the way as to why Zim is in the state that it is. Here is the

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-28382873617723559542009-11-02T18:38:00.006+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.195+02:00

Also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya - The smoke that thunders, in the Kololo language. I approached the falls through the rainforest with all my senses on alert. I was so excited to see something I had only ever dreamt of seeing. I could hear the roar of the water, and even feel the light mist of spray on my hot skin that left behind droplets of water. As we turned a corner, and the roar got louder, I

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-69364632140799433802009-10-30T21:07:00.010+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.198+02:00

Graham needed to go back to Maun to pack and ship his printer back to South Africa, so we decided best make a road trip out of the long drive and include Zimbabwe in the mix. It’s about 12-14 hours from Johannesburg to Maun give or take allowing time at boarders and rest stops/photo opportunities. Music playing, bad singing and lots of junk food we hit the road. On route we passed and stopped for

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-39280441417271944182009-10-11T10:07:00.006+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.201+02:00

"At the heart of every human experience is the desire to survive and prosper. To live without fear, hunger or suffering. To imagine how your life could be better and then have the means yourself to change it. Yet, every day, 1.2 billion people – one fifth of the world’s inhabitants – cannot fulfil their most basic needs, let alone attain their dreams or desires"Before I left Maun I was faced with

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-4476663181755130292009-09-23T17:52:00.006+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.204+02:00

Life in Maun is beyond hot at the moment, and so we've headed to South Africa. Hot beyond hot, hotter than any one Canadian can imagine. By 11am one cannot move, my fingers are like sausages, and I had no idea where my ankles went. And it wasn't even hot when we left, so I've been told. Until the 1st rains come, late Oct it only gets hotter. Tar melts, you can fry an egg on the road, getting

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-42392677082439788582009-09-15T09:47:00.006+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.206+02:00

I’ve mentioned that Maun mainly exists to cater to the safari community, and it’s been said that it’s a drinking town with a safari problem. I would have to agree. There are few choices of outings so people tend to frequent their favorite, the bridge backpackers being one of them, great burgers, it is a wonderful mix of locals and tourists mingling together, this is Graham enjoying a beer while a

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-46234401662388360122009-09-15T01:00:00.002+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.209+02:00

Comparatively (to South Africa) crime here is low. However as a visitor, or “north american” we are automatically seen as wealthy and therefore that you will be generous. I didn’t mention it before we left camp but will now. One of our temporary camp hands decided to target me for this reason. Often asking me for money and a jacket. Later to find out that he cleaned me out, he took quite a few

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-90085704104584391072009-09-14T09:35:00.008+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.212+02:00

First I apologize for the lack of updates, internet is a hassle at best here in town, I've lost connection several times already while trying to load this post, and to be honest, it's not as inspiring here as it was in the bush. That and it is so hot by 11am one can barley move! I kid you not, you would think living in a hot climate is so exotic and wonderful, it's just really really hot.I

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-33471361570082237002009-08-25T11:05:00.011+02:002011-03-21T20:10:27.560+02:00

As most of you are aware, things have changed a bit here in Moremi. Earth-Touch has "retrenched" (such a lovely word) over 50% of their staff. The good news is have some forks in the fire and though can’t say here what they are I am excited and confident of what is to come next on my journey. Most of you got an email from me with more details. And I hope soon to be able to share it here. Stay

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-3179134729043724812009-08-23T19:41:00.003+02:002011-03-21T20:10:27.563+02:00

OK how do you make this thing cook?Taco's in Africa, of course.......Pondering..... tacos in Africa 

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-3557023400938720412009-08-23T10:53:00.003+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.223+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-61089964836615663662009-08-22T19:43:00.002+02:002011-03-21T20:10:27.565+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-15945838347058071432009-08-21T08:00:00.002+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.229+02:00

Janey, crazy Janey K........Today you will marry your soul mate. And I couldn’t be happier for you and Brian.I smile ear to ear when I think of your story as it brings such joy to my heart that a re-connection after so many years has led to such in incredible love story.Our friendship has taught me so much about friendship, how it changes over time and how certain boundaries like distance are not

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-20143423629375875562009-08-20T20:47:00.005+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.232+02:00

Eight different elementary schools by grade four. Can’t remember how many houses, but many. Moving is in my genes. In my adult life the longest I’ve spent in one place is two, maybe three years. And while I may have been living in one place, I was always moving. Working hard, exercising, socializing, changing jobs, cleaning, shopping, re-arranging and organizing. Doing it all myself and never

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-278583659466797412009-08-19T19:34:00.002+02:002011-03-21T20:08:13.234+02:00

Thought I should probably share what we do here! Earth-Touch films and sells syndicated footage to different television networks. We also have podcasts on itunes and stuff on you tube. This is a recent event Graham and I filmed. Very cool.

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-30011729499988231572009-08-15T18:50:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:10:27.569+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-22042783806518451432009-08-15T15:20:00.018+02:002011-11-24T19:43:37.227+02:00

The seasons are changing no matter which hemisphere you call home. Summer is winding down in the north and fall is around the corner, shutting down cottages and bringing beautiful vibrant colors and fresh starts. Fall is known at home as the season of change. Here in the Okvango the summer rains ended in april leaving behind a vibrant green oasis. With the exception of the “freak june rains”,

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-1024661108085936862009-08-11T01:00:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:22:10.424+02:00

Todays is my fathers birthday. It’s his one from. That’s what he and I called them, birthdays, “one froms”. For example, when I turned 33, I was one from 34, which was one from 35! which meant I was 5 from 40! GASP! We carried on like this no matter the birthday. Today my father would have been one from 60, 5 from 65, 10 from 70! GASP. I would have teased him, asked me if he could wait to get

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-84562078572255905012009-08-10T08:24:00.001+02:002009-08-11T13:21:08.902+02:00

You've heard me speak often of "tracking" the lions. I've realized that I have not touched on just what this means. In the process I've learnt to notice everything and miss nothing. Again adding to my heightened senses since I've arrived. The art of tracking has been said to be the origin of science and represents a crucial step in human evolution (the art of tracking, as practised by

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-40887122964543297542009-08-09T08:33:00.000+02:002010-02-17T03:36:36.204+02:00

Until last week when I got the heart wrenching news of my girlfriends fathers extremely tragic and sudden death, wringing tears out of my eyes that have not even close to dried up, did I realize a few other things. I barley remember the day I got that phone call or the hours, days, weeks and months after. It’s a blur, coupled with moving to the middle of the African bush I just trudged forward.

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-34825128437821700522009-08-06T19:01:00.001+02:002010-02-17T03:36:36.207+02:00

Tonight I saw two honey badgers. Sweet, goofy little things they are. So cute I say, adorable, like little bears. From afar they look a bit like a skunk, with their white stripe along their backs. Up close like a tiny little sweet adorable bear. Graham laughs at me and then informs me that: Pound for pound this is Africa's most fearless animal despite it's size. (click here to watch a video of a

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-53010976195737356562009-08-03T20:17:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.080+02:00

As a variation on a famous statement by Descartes I would like to say “I write, therefore I am”. It is the best way I know how to express myself. Grammatically it’s terrible, this I have been made painfully aware of by various people (you know who you are). Punctuation is not my thing. Eats shoots and leaves who? I am not hooked on phonics by any means. But I have been writing in a diary since I

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-90581373368970964552009-08-02T20:46:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.081+02:00

Lately there have been herds and herds of beautiful elephants moving through northern botswana, once on the verge of extinction this area now lays claim to 150 000, the largest in Africa.The reason for this mass movement at the moment is mostly seasonal. During the rainy season the elephants stay away from the delta area in the drylands. With the rain on the land there is water to drink and

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-24218902528223786392009-07-25T19:19:00.001+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.082+02:00

You might wonder what we do for fun around here, there is no local waterhole so to speak, no dancin' to be had on bars (good thing I've outgrown that, though from what I keep hearing Graham hasn't and thus does so naked..... you can ask him about it) no wine with the girls to chat about what girls chat about. Which I miss a great deal (shout out to my girls), poor Graham gets to hear about all my

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-77407742120706173152009-07-25T13:51:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.084+02:00

It has occurred to me that I’ve posted a lot of pictures of the big five and forgotten about the other less cooed over beautiful animals here in the delta. The often misunderstood hyena being one of them.Before I left I heard all sorts of horror stories about the spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta) yes I am learning the latin names of mammals here in the delta which I might add is nothing to our

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-53144600833516483222009-07-21T18:04:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.085+02:00

I am sure my uncle Bob has been following along thinking not much has happened in terms of the vehicles as of late. That lions of Moremi crew must have finally gotten their cars sorted. Not so fast Bob. During yesterday's slight Mopane bashing chasing the lions we managed to hit several stumps and fall into several big holes and we drove home listening to the wheels wobble, the springs squeak

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-53293116759779248892009-07-20T19:27:00.001+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.086+02:00

The game here is obvious and of course I love all the animals and miss them a great deal when we go into town. I can’t sleep without the hippos laughing me to sleep at night. But there is more to Moremi then the game. That does sound cheeky, but obviously not meant to be. ;-)

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-69033855753271602412009-07-20T18:48:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.087+02:00

Over the last few days our search for the lions has been unsuccessful and so we’ve been taking in all that Moremi has to offer. Elephants at sunrise, water birds playing, impala grazing and monkeys mating.As we were sitting just south of Jesse’s pools, Graham was filiming some impala and monkeys feeding together. These two monkeys, seemingly too young to be so randy, began to mimic a behavior

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-86051558570036248382009-07-12T13:23:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:10:35.980+02:00

Today is your anniversary and as you go about celebrating your marriage, friendship and companionship I sit and remember well your wedding day. In my wallet is my all time favorite picture of Dad, and it was taken at your wedding. It was the one time I got to dance with my father, the next time I figured would be on my wedding day. Sadly that won't happen but I am grateful that I got that one

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-77314235739447289682009-07-11T18:00:00.000+02:002010-03-28T01:43:18.559+02:00

Kath read you the short version at the wedding, she has so many to read we had to shorten it! Here is the long version.Ariane and David,I hope that the sun found you first this morning.You both have been such wonderful dear friends to me. David, as Kaths dear friend, from the moment I met you, I felt that you immediately took on that brotherly protective role and I instatnly felt like family.

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-52107770767189956552009-07-08T13:00:00.001+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.091+02:00

I went out for a short drive alone not to far from camp to a place called “gnupoo pan” called so because Andy had taken the kids there once and they were throwing poo at each other, gno poo, the poo of the wildebeest. I probably should have told you that after the fact, instead of prefacing this with it..... Anyway I wanted to take in a solo sunset and I parked the vehicle next to a beautiful

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-15155374770000377402009-07-07T20:42:00.001+02:002011-01-28T18:47:41.536+02:00

Being here in Moremi has provided me a strong encounter with nature and mother earth. Sitting in camp alone the other day, alone for the first time since march 1st, I sat wide eyed, on total alert and aware of everything. Completely plugged into the universe. I heard for the first time the sound of silence. It nearly struck me to the ground, so strong was the pressure. I felt so insignificant, so

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-74010730375201875522009-07-06T19:16:00.000+02:002010-03-28T01:43:18.561+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-64755393905297733222009-07-06T09:29:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:10:35.983+02:00

Laundry with Elephants, cooking and baking over an open fire, and taking in a sunset in your kitchen.Sigh....

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-54102108416903544902009-07-06T08:52:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.098+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-35912434707205098512009-07-06T08:00:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.100+02:00

Amazing really, I know most of you will find this hard to believe but it's true, I've been cooking. In the bush no less where the amenities are scarce. Amazed by the ability to bake things with hot coals on the fire, and the fact that it makes me feel even more in tune with the bush and my inner survival mode I successfully made cabbage rolls. I KNOW! Crazy isn't it!

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-60932259709718625182009-07-04T13:01:00.001+02:002010-11-21T17:42:01.066+02:00

Today I had to spend the day alone in camp. ABSOLUTELY alone, no camp hand, just me. There is only Graham, myself and a camp hand in camp at the moment. Brad is off filming crocs. Graham had to go to Maun for a supply run and to pick up Pricka, and bring Legae home. Camp can not be left alone so that left me to “man” the fort. No worries, I will simply leave the electric fence on all day and

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-4276265342949029402009-07-03T07:30:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.102+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-63503759377951634092009-06-28T14:00:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.104+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-38131494230103274652009-06-27T18:32:00.001+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.105+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-9135447413682826392009-06-27T17:39:00.000+02:002009-08-11T13:19:35.106+02:00

How on earth do you make apply crumble without an oven??? Why in a pot with hot coals under it, and hot coals on top of it next to the fire, for an hour of course. Voila! Perfect apple crumble if I do say so myself..... just missing Mums home made vanilla ice-creamThe inner hidden domestic diva is rearing it's ugly head in the bush! Mum I've done you proud.

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-5194822073657769332009-06-27T16:56:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.625+02:00

As all saturdays go, even in Moremi there is basic admin that needs to be done. Big breakfast, exercise, and laundry. Here we have our laundry done for us by our camp hand. But ladies under garments don't get done, it's part of their culture. Frankly I am ok with this, I prefer to wash my own gitch. So as a typical saturday would go, we woke to have eggs, then I did my hour of exercise, which I

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-27669128286478979852009-06-26T17:21:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.628+02:00

I know it's a day late, we were in Maun. But I had a drink for you and pretended I was on the top of the park hyatt with you.Much loveme

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-63086416513775970062009-06-22T13:23:00.004+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.632+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-53783143128928803172009-06-14T20:55:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.635+02:00

So there we were sitting in the office, It's about 8pm. I was working away, Brad was chatting to Graham when I hear this grass being munched outside. I grab the torch and step outside. There; right along side the electric fence was a BIG HIPPO. A huge beautiful hippo. Completely chilled munching on the grass. I can't imagine ever coming closer to a hippo. We all sat in awe watching for a bit,

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-17647998661107607022009-06-12T09:35:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.638+02:00

This weekend my little sister will ride 200km in an effort to raise money for cancer (CLICK ON THIS TO SPONSOR HER) I couldn't be more proud of her. As I sit here and think of her and what I would say to her as words of wisdom and encouragement it forced me to also reflect on my own journey and some of the experiences I have had leading to now. I went back to my notes about the tour for kids, and

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-29181972957937265402009-06-10T17:22:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.642+02:00

This post is inspired by Donna. I got an email from her suggesting that I write a book. She thinks I might have all the right elements that Canadian publishers would want. Canadian perspective, horrific loss, a path to finding balance in a foreign land, great adventures, wild animals, beautiful pictures and amazing insights.It was the horrific loss part that stopped me. When I saw this is was

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-87096810267238063632009-06-10T10:46:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.645+02:00

The outdoor "organic" lifestyle. With it's glories comes it's challenges.I was a girl fed up with big city life and a deep desire of living an outdoor rugged life. Better a dream of going to Africa. A girl who went from a temperature of -30 C to +30 C in 30 hours and arrived in the deep african bush, ready for the guts and glory of it all. I arrived in the rainy season if you remember, I was

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-79354901160180798902009-06-09T08:54:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.649+02:00

This post is a little out of order. It’s a long one to explain so I’ve had to take more time to write it. On our second day back from leave we took a boat cruise up one of the major channels in the Delta (the Muanachira {mona-chira}) to see what the flood and water levels were doing. (Any of my old work mates reading this will laugh and know how I feel about boat cruises, and the idea of me

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-5219941047241180562009-06-08T19:48:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.652+02:00

I have been promising photos of Maun for some time. I finally had a chance this weekend to take some of more of the real local life. As well of the buffalo fence I've spoken of in past's posts. I've also included a photo of one of the many hair cut shops available to me. This is why my hair is growing so......

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-59391406770005476772009-06-08T14:01:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.655+02:00

This morning not far from where we witnessed the stunning moonset and sunrise the lions were munching on a lechew they had managed to catch in the early morning hours. When this happens the vultures are never far away waiting for their chance to scavenge what they can. The cubs like to chase them away.

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-91757807115730670102009-06-08T13:22:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.659+02:00

In transposition the morning sky in perfect reflection left me equally in awe this morning. I think for the first time I witnessed not only the moonset, but in sync with the sunrise. Again a beautiful morning where the photos say it all.

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-44443222202385282102009-06-07T21:27:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.662+02:00

Just back in camp after a quick afternoon/evening joll with our furry Moremi friends. It was an incredibly beautiful evening. The flat landscape made for the most magnificent view of both the sunrise and the full moon in sync. To add to the absolute beauty of it all a herd of giraffe decided to meander between the two. I felt like I was watching the french open. My head turning back and forth

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-80771908514221378652009-06-04T12:21:00.002+02:002011-05-30T23:00:11.914+02:00

Had a very interesting and eventful night last night. Sleepless in Moremi (A Canadian’s unembellished perspective on lions in camp) Last night some lions paid a visit to my tent. As I write this and try to narrate my version of the story my heart rate is increasing. Before we all meandered off to bed we had heard some impala barking very close to camp warning of predators. Specifically behind

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-75196339767744121162009-06-04T10:23:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.668+02:00

I must step in here after reading Penny’s version of this particular evening. It is my duty to set the record straight. Here is the real version. Making our way back to camp one evening we came across this big old bull elephant. These bulls are generally very relaxed so I pulled ahead of him and got down on the ground to take some low angle shots as he walked past. He stood above me, peering down

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-56319004812664159162009-06-04T10:19:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.672+02:00

On our way back to camp one evening we came across a huge old bull elephant. The old bulls are often found wandering on their own. Once they reach adolescence they move out of the breeding herds and form bachelor herds. However these are quite loosely structured they will stick together, move off and as this one is on their own. The older bulls tend to form a sort of mentorship with the younger

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-63390196859255264412009-06-04T10:01:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.675+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-4428425167402653092009-06-03T20:35:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.679+02:00

I never thought I would say this but I was happy to be in Maun. It’s laid back casual character was quickly embraced. Even when it took forever to get our bags off the plane it only made me smile. I like Botswana as a country. It’s well run. One of the best run countries in Africa. As I mentioned, I don’t think I was ready to be back in a city. It was loud, the sounds rang unpleasantly in my now

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-17282648725432447842009-06-03T20:33:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.682+02:00

First I will apologize for the lack of writing as of late. I realize it’s been forever since I have written. As some of you are aware I went on leave to South Africa for 14 days. Every 5 weeks Earth-Touch will fly us out. To keep us sane I suppose. Anyway, I wasn’t in South Africa for more than a day when our rental car was broken into and my computer bag stolen. In it, my lap top, personal hand

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-66318371683998420062009-04-21T19:34:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.685+02:00

Yes it is true monkeys have blue balls. And some, as this one, like to check and make sure they are still there. This does give new meaning to the term blue balls. In this case (ahem) it is a sign of dominance. Only the dominant males (obviously males) have them. I guess in all species the males need to have some sort of way to prove their manly hood. Or it proves most of my girlfriends and

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-81475330117405754292009-04-21T18:55:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.688+02:00

I realize it’s been some time since I have updated here, and I apologize, we’ve been very busy in the Okavango Delta! Imagine that. We had to take an unexpected trip into Maun for yet again more vehicle repairs, we needed a new rear diff. I now have a wonderful, unintended through knowledge of how a diff operates and it’s purpose in the vehicle running smoothly. I’ve posted a rather facetious

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-87268592680298963022009-04-15T21:36:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:10:48.689+02:00

Guided tour of the Maun automotive establishments - 09:34 am15 Apr 2009By Penny LightOn our recent trips into Maun, I have yet to have time to explore the village. This is mostly because errands, admin and purchasing supplies seem to take a very long time to get done here. I am after all on Africa time, as I am often reminded by Graham when my patience runs thin. My north American ‘instant

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-81025787840208627422009-04-09T13:13:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:10:48.692+02:00

This guy came sauntering past me about one foot from the car, and plopped himself down beside the back wheel. The look on Graham's face is just before he said, "shhhh sit still and be quite". He slept by the rear tire for 45 min therefore we were unable to move the car, let alone ourselves. My heart raced as my butt fell asleep. When he woke, he sauntered right past me again, pausing beside

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-60762640062030641012009-04-08T20:08:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:10:48.695+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-36624670422014926122009-04-04T17:06:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:18.700+02:00

I prefer to ride rooftop it brings me closer to the sky that is somehow already closer to me here. My unobstructed view of the vast African landscape, the open air I breath in, sweet smells of sage, wild lemon, dew on the grass in the early morning. To be able to reach out and touch the sunrise, today a bright orange, yesterday a pale blue and pink. The dark silhouette of the branches of a

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-49410471941967842572009-04-04T11:42:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:10:48.698+02:00

My uncle Bob asked recently where our garage is. Bob is a car enthusiast and mechanic extraordinaire, if you need to find Bob, he'll be in the garage working on a car. So I thought I would show him our garage, the African bush basically. Often while out, often while in a river crossing we fix our vehicles. As well, check out this post with the video of our vehicle going through such a river

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-54341626633563970192009-04-03T17:58:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.452+02:00

We had to go into Maun a day early (last thursday) last week for supplies and parts for the truck (again). I did not obtain any photo’s of Maun, it seems like everything does eventually get done, however very very very slowly. The Batswana don’t seem to have any real sense of urgency in their walk, talk or business. So we spend a lot of time waiting, what I think we could get done in a morning

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-11708303152848269162009-04-02T12:11:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.690+02:00

The morning started off warm with a slightly overcast sky that threatened rain. Since the last stretch of heavy rain we all cringe at the thought of another and look up to the clouds in hopes they do not open their faucets on us again.We heard a single lion calling south-east of camp early this morning. I was happy to hear this powerful song this morning and woke excited for the day, its been

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-41350655566238998562009-04-02T11:58:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.693+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-21233165416470837572009-03-31T16:15:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.699+02:00

We are finally back from Maun and the vehicle is in fine form, at least for now mechanics is a prerequisite for the job. I will be posting a funny story soon on our trip this time round to Maun and what I learnt about mechanics in Botswana. I am always happy to be back from Maun, the 3+ hour drive is beautiful but when we drive into out “driveway” there is a sigh of relief to be home. I have

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-15856115273497372202009-03-25T07:38:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.705+02:00

It's been an incredibly hectic few days here in Moremi, we seem to be having a string of bad luck with the vehicles. Just when we thought we had it all figured out with the clutch, the starter went. Go to the Earth-Touch site to get an update as to why our vehicles are so bashed up. While a bit humorous, it's frustrating. A day in camp can be painful. I love getting out into the game reserve,

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-63555283776556970602009-03-24T19:16:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.708+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-21387640441179589932009-03-21T11:30:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.710+02:00

The past couple of days have been simply amazing. Camp numbers are low right now, Brad, Andy and the kids are on holiday and Nick has left to get supplies and go home. So right now it's just Graham, Leto and myself. The vehicles finally got fixed and on thursday afternoon Graham and I set out to catch a sunset on Dead Tree Island. On route we saw the lions, they were sniffing out a herd of

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-40247913344837856742009-03-19T11:56:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.713+02:00

As I've mentioned, sometimes we get stuck, and sometimes Graham can not get us unstuck. The rains over the last 3 weeks have made for some challenging river crossings. After a stellar morning with the lions, we returned in the afternoon to see if they might get active again. We found them resting in the shade and there they remained until sunset. On route back to camp we managed to get our

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-17564536196602613722009-03-17T11:33:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.481+02:00

We’ve managed to locate the pride again. While we were at the circus on the weekend, Nick found the lions on Dead Tree Island (this is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, I will post pics once the lighting is just right for such a setting) They had finally managed to eat and had taken down a Buffalo calf. I was so excited to hear this news and couldn’t wait to see them with full

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-78961988257842140992009-03-17T11:32:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.484+02:00

A trip to Maun to conclude that I am not an imbecile, I do not have leprosy or syphilis. I am not an idiot, an imbecile or a feeble minded person. (see attached certification as proof) Yes, these plus a list of other seemingly odd highly contractable disease that I must be cleared of, and I am than able to apply for my residence permit. This process turns out to be a complete and utter gong

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-62201114299128568282009-03-15T12:28:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.487+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-84890451027174874412009-03-11T15:58:00.002+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.490+02:00

While out looking for the lions we often stop to photograph all the rest of the beauty that surrounds us, on monday it was the Hippos. They are truly ridiculous animals. They snort and laugh, it’s quite funny to hear, they waddle when they walk, a male can weigh up to two tons! and all that weight is carried on these tiny stumps of legs. Make no mistake that these short fat guys can move

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-7748670319317365852009-03-11T15:23:00.003+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.493+02:00

Camp life is basic. You’ve seen the shower and my tent. I’ve just added a picture of the loo to that post so you can have a better visual of where I do my business. Note that it is called a “long drop”. Literally it is a long hole dug into the ground with mud built up around a plastic toilet, might I add a very uncomfortable throne. There are only very small mirrors, if you can find one,

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-45787848759005131512009-03-11T15:12:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.716+02:00

We have had little luck with the lions this week, all the rain has made it difficult to pick up their tracks as well the rain has been widespread resulting in the game dispersing. I’ve noticed a difference in my ability to see and hear things off in the distance. The lions calling in the night is now a distinct sound to my ears. And something moving far off in the horizon and I automatically

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-63478599773817277542009-03-11T13:20:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.499+02:00

The summer rains have set in this week, and I am starting to feel a bit water logged. It is not much different than what it felt like living on dads boat one summer in toronto, or sailing up the coast of Brazil or the time Mum and Dwight took Marissa and I to florida. Everything is damp. Bedding, cloths, seats in the vehicle making for a soggy bottom. It doesn’t dampen my spirits, while it

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-20994038619261747122009-03-08T14:35:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.719+02:00

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-68666184531856921122009-03-07T18:31:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.722+02:00

OK I think I am up to date now, I must let you all know that my posts will be done once a week. We have limited bandwidth and time slots. My days off are friday and saturday and that is when I will be posting. I am also just trying to figure out this blog thing so please bare with me. For those of you following on Facebook only, it does not seem to post pics, so be sure to go right to my blog

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-8359585444035332812009-03-07T18:19:00.004+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.724+02:00

It's a hazard of the job, sometimes we get stuck. With the summer rains upon us the routes have taken on big holes and puddles, which often can be tricky to navigate. Reference picture below... sometimes we get stuck. All things considered when an average day on the job is waking to a breathtaking sunrise, seeing a Leopard rest in a tree, a Giraffe walk through an enchanted forest and Lions in

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-47085864623711114292009-03-07T18:10:00.001+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.730+02:00

Rio and Kieta are Brad and Andy's kids, they are adorable! This family has the great opportunity to spend a year in the bush. I wanted to introduce them to you, so when I talk about them you'll have some reference.

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-82488823167509319402009-03-07T08:01:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.542+02:00

I am still writing to catch up to where I am today.  I anticipate that once I get to today my posts will be a little more accurate and raw in it's content.  After a day off on sunday to get settled in and make myself at home, monday we head out to find the lions.  For those who are not sure what I am doing here exactly, Graham and I are working on the Lions of Moremi project. There are two

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-21537689854584955502009-03-06T18:02:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:02.733+02:00

I have to have full disclosure here as I am just now catching up on my week and these posts, so they are in fact desperately trying to be written in the past-tense,  without little success as I notice I come in and out of past and present.... ;-)  After a delicious steak dinner Graham escorted me to my tent; probably to humor me and again thinking this poor Canadian must be terrified!  I was

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-41892229444401539952009-03-01T11:23:00.002+02:002011-03-21T20:09:34.548+02:00

4 hours of by far the most amazing "road trip" of my life, my life that will be for at least the next year......I arrive "home".  It's about 7:30 pm and I am greeted by my new work mates, friends, and family.  Brad, the film director and his wife Andy. Their two kids Rio and Keita, 5 and 2 respectively are asleep and I will meet them in the morning. Franette, who is the kids nanny, our chef 

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-9992232041820174842009-02-28T10:55:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:54.849+02:00

We rode in mostly silence, I was exhausted and in absolute awe at the beauty around me.  I saw very little of Maun, though it seems to vibrant, I look forward to returning in a couple of weeks to experience it.  As we drive out of town, I take in the local africans walking along side the road, the shanty style homes in poverty.  I haven't got my camera out, I really just want to take it all in

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-2807806683048890162009-02-28T10:00:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:11:47.925+02:00

After what I've learnt as a typical Air Botswana 2 hour delay, and a 2:55 flight to Maun, I step off the plane under a true African sky.  I immediately look up.  And take a deep breath in.  The sky is different here.  It is closer to you somehow, I feel as though if I jump I can touch it.  The smell of the air is so fresh and full of sweetness.  I gather my luggage, and walk out to be greeted by

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-21427914354179778652009-02-27T19:11:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:54.854+02:00

Departure 14:29 YYZ-DUL-JHBI am sitting in the "Molson Canadian" lounge at Pearson International Airport.  I've been dropped off by one of my oldest and dearest friends with whom I spent my last night in Canada with.  I can't think of a better way to have done so, the days leading up had been hectic and full of laughs with the people I love the most and having them here today would have only made

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1225184775326187001.post-65080252035579021852009-02-18T03:34:00.000+02:002011-03-21T20:09:54.857+02:00

Thus far; the sudden death of my father has been the most life changing event I've experienced. Who I was before November 18th 2008 and who I am now is completely different, so far as to say that when I look in the mirror now, something is not just different but missing.  I look different, something in my eyes is gone.  I've suddenly grown older in spirit.  It puts life into shocking perspective,

Penny Lighthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00470874381070980972noreply@blogger.com0