I went with the Nigerian Field Society today to see the largest private African art collection in Africa. We couldn’t take photos in his palace, but the grounds show how splendid it was.
Fun shopping today…
I splurged on a few items at the bazaar today… I love the string art picture of the mothers with babies.
Outdoor Play Venue at Freedom Park
I was privileged to see the play “How to be a Super Hero” presented by Nigeria’s Premier Disability Theatre Company. After the play, a stroll around the park to admire artwork and a little shopping were in order. The unique pictures are done with little nails and thread… So resourceful and creative.
An outing is good for the soul. Even my walk back home looked nice today.
I live in this mega complex.
Golden Monkeys in the bamboo forest…
Our last day here, but Rwanda has yet another gift for us. Up early and off into the bamboo forest we go in search of the endangered Golden Monkeys. Once amongst the bamboo, they were everywhere! They played, foraged for food, nibbled, jumped from limb to limb…and we were in the middle of it all.
Then it was down the trail and back to Lagos, via Kigali we go.
Oh, and Rayna became the Chameleon tamer! She also plays a mean African violin!
Back in Kigali and a toast to a wonderful group of friends and an amazing adventure!
Back in Lagos for Christmas celebrations at the American International School of Lagos!
My travels to the “Gorillas in the Mist”
Four of us women (teachers and an engineer) boarded Rwandair full of anticipation, but not yet fully grasping the life moments and lessons that this country and her mountains had in store for us. Once landed in Kigali, our exceptional guide, Patrick, whisked us away in our chariot (AKA Safari Jeep) for a night stay at the elegant Hotel Serena. We were pampered like queens as we rested up for an amazing journey.
After an exquisite breakfast buffet, we left for a somber but necessary outing. We paid our respects at the genocide memorial. It remembers the two million people lost to this tragic time in 1994, and although heartbreaking, it is beautifully and respectfully presented. Next was lunch at the original “Hotel Rwanda”. Unfortunately, I accidentally deleted my pictures from this afternoon before they made it to google photos. We then drove over two hours; climbing through rolling hills, farms, and villages towards the mountains. The crops, local people, immaculate streets (not a piece of garbage to be seen), and grazing livestock spoke volumes about the wonder and resiliency of this unique and beautiful country. It was evening as we arrived at the Mountain Gorilla Lodge, nestled at the foothills of the Volcano National Park. We were now at over 7,000 feet, and evenings were cool and perfect for a cozy fire.
A few games of cards by the fire, a delicious four course dinner, and we were off to our cozy cottages to snuggle in and rest up before our hike to the gorillas tomorrow morning. We had a fire waiting for us in our room, as well as a hot water bottle under the quilts to warm us…so comfy!
The big day arrived. A healthy breakfast and then off to meet our guides and porters for the gorilla trek. We rented gators for protection from the jungle elements and learned about the gorilla family that we would be visiting.
We were to hike to the “Agashya Group”…agashya means “special” in Swahili and they certainly did not disappoint…they lived up to their name. Off we went full of childlike excitement and anticipation. We trekked into the farmland, rolling hills, bamboo forest, and finally deeper into the mountain to the gorillas.
- The first one took our breath away! We came closer; there were babies, a mischievous mother trying to play with us, a silverback pounding his chest…all so close and tolerant of our presence. It was an honor, almost sacred, to witness their family life. Sometimes there are no words, just fluttering heartbeats and goosebumps.
Our time with these magnificent animals passed far too quickly, but for one precious hour we shared the jungle with these wonderful, witty, and complex creatures. We said our quiet goodbyes, took one last look and left them to their mountain. Of course I slipped in the mud descending the mountain and took two porters down with me! We all laughed as we slide on our bottoms down the steep, muddy trail.We returned to the resort in the afterglow of the experience-hungry, happy, and tired. I am not sure which was more delicious, the gourmet dinner or my luxuriously soft and quilted bed near the fireplace.
Off to bed, but our Golden Monkey trek tomorrow…more to come!
ART X today…
a very interesting and unusual art show. I went with my fellow teacher friend, Allison. There were famous artists and their works from all over the world, especially African countries. Another lovely afternoon here in Lagos, Nigeria.
Wien… It was fun Vienna.
Here we are at the Vienna Airport. It’s hard to leave Europe, but I’ll be back in March. Saint Stephen’s Cathedral was my favorite… The sounds of the church bells, the high ceilings, the sound from the organ pipes flooding the church… Loved it.
Travels during October Break…
This North Idaho girl is loving the crisp, vibrant fall in Prague and Chesky Krumlov. Prague is a beautiful and bustling city that has some of the best shopping and food I’ve experienced in one place. Rather it’s Racalette cheese or Bohemian Crystal you’re looking for… It’s there. Not to mention the stunning architecture and castle.
Chesky Krumlov is one of the most quaint, authentic, and breath taking places I’ve ever visited. We stayed in the old town, which is actually within the castle fortress. The castle dates back as far as the 1200’s and is striking and almost eery because it is so well persevered. The entire experience gave me grins, goosebumps, and reason to pause.
Final stop is Vienna. I write this as we travel through the beautiful Austrian countryside… Dotted with impecably maintained farm houses, Inns, and restaurants. The autumn folliage enhances the simple splendor of the rolling countryside to Wien (Vienna).
Nigerian Culture Day at school and Nigerian Independence Day!
It all started on Friday with a great day at school. Nigerian culture days means art, folklore, music, spicy food, dancing, history, shopping, and comaraderie.
Sunday was a boat trip to a new beach house… The pool, ocean, great company, guacamole, and sunshine made for a wonderful day.
Sunday “Fun-day” at the Beach…
What a fun day on the beach! The BBQ and delicious homemade food was nonstop, as were the smiles and laughter. Just a five minute boat ride from the yacht club… It was so close, and yet another world… Soft sand beach and palms… The young and old alike, “Ate, drank, and were merry!” I’m so blessed to have very kind friends who treat me to such fun experiences.
Lynn in Lagos 