Well, Tom was right - a 6:30AM game drive gave us a lion first thing, wandering slowly looking for the rest of his companions - then after a few - no, a LOT of the resident zebras and wildebeests, elephants (which I cannot get enough of), we came across two more lions, napping after a big meal of zebra, which Tom told us must have been killed in the night, as it was quite fresh and right next to the road. I did not take a picture of it. It wasn't upsetting, as I understand it's nature at work, but not something I want a photo of for posterity, thanks.
At 10AM we set off to visit a Masai school, visiting a few classrooms and observing lessons - most of the older boys were away, preparing for a ceremony for the next stage of manhood. We signed the guestbook, then the teacher asked for my email address, asking if its would be alright for them to communicate with me - I said ok - hope it's not for solicitations - they seemed to be pretty well taken care of - as far as schools go - they've had quite a few sponsors who have put up buildings as well as sent some of the girls off to boarding school.
Across the road we visited a Masai village, where the women greeted us with a traditional welcome dance, then watched the men start fire with sticks (while wearing digital watches... hmmm) - then gave us a tour of the whole village, built in a circle for protection. Entered to see the inside of a hut, then practically shoved into 'the store' crowded with people in front of their wares laid out on blankets, practically shoving things in front of us to buy - ended up buying nothing almost because of it. Overload. An interesting experience, but almost too much.
Growing up where you see demonstrations at parks, etc., it's quite surreal to see the 'real' thing, and realize ... it really is the real deal.
Back to the lodge for a look around the gift shop - not much - then to lunch - then a late afternoon game drive where we can now add a CHEETAH - wait, make that TWO CHEETAHS - who started a chase at the zebras, but fortunately chose to not to pursue it and ended up casually strolling away into the trees. Next, a hippo, with a big scar on his shoulder that wasn't quite healed, which meant he couldn't go back in the water yet, as the fish will pick at it :P. Poor boo.
Back for rest and dinner, early bedtime as we depart at 7:45AM for an 8AM flight back to Nairobi, then a long drive to Serena Mountain Lodge in the Kenya National Forest.
