April 4, 2013

The primary purpose in going to Africa is to go on another Safari in Tanzania with Beth and several Maryville friends.  This Safari is two weeks long and will visit Amboselli National Park in Kenya, Tarangire National Park, Norongoro Conservation Area, and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.  We had such a great time in 2006 when we went with Beth's sister and the Steversons.

 We enjoyed the people of Tanzania and we had wonderful guides.  We were able to meet villagers and see the schools that the children attend.  Tanzania is a poor country, however, the people there don't miss things that they weren't used to.

 We spent  a few days with the Massai people and learned a lot about their culture.  Did you know that it is required that prospective husbands have to give a number of cows to the bride's parents before permission is granted for the couple to marry?

 I loved the children of Tanzania. They were very friendly and eager to talk with us.

 This picture was taken at the Ngorongoro Crater.  We will be here for several days.

 This lady prepared wonderful meals using a wood fire and limited cooking utensils.  I wanted to bring her back to teach the Boy Scouts how to do it.

 Bryan Steverson and I after a balloon ride in the Serengeti.

 Bryan and I met this family and posed for a picture with them.

 This young fellow was prowling around our vehicle.

 These hippos were enjoying a cool dip.  Despite being on the equator, the temperature was relatively cool as we are 4,000 to 7,500 foot elevation.

 Speaking of elevation, these guys were everywhere and were a sight to behold.

 We always enjoyed seeing the elephants who were usually in family groups.

 The zebras were always hanging out with the wildebeasts.