A Time to Say Totsiens (Goodbye)

After four and a half months living at the southern tip of Africa, my adventure has drawn to its last few days. With all of the memories that have been made, Simone and I have fashioned a schedule that will let us make the best of our last moments of this awesome experience.

A few days ago, Simone and I said goodbye to Sparrow Village and the wonderful children and staff that treated us so well these last few months. Due to the flipped season on this side of the world, the kids academic summer break began at the beginning of December. After our long sessions of exam preparation, we were able to spend our last days at Sparrow, organizing activities for the kids. All activities came to a culminating point on our last day, we Simone and I organized a huge Scavenger Hunt around the whole village. The children really seemed to enjoy themselves and it seems that the event may become and annual activity. Our time ended with heart felt goodbyes and thanks, but Simone and I both knew that experience of being at Sparrow Village is one that will never truly leave us.

Along with finishing up at Sparrow, Simone and I made our last trip to shadow at the Themba Lethu HIV Clinic at Helen Joseph Hospital this past week. After spending the majority of the day shadowing with Dr. Andrew Ndekera, Simone and I made one last trip through the clinic and hospital. It has been a very eye-opening experience to see the first hand battle against HIV in South Africa, as well as seeing the struggles of international health care systems. As Simone and I prepare for our medical education to begin in May, I will look forward to reflecting on our time at Themba Lethu and using what I have seen and learned to drive me to make a difference in both domestic and international health care.
With our work behind us, Simone and have filled our last days with as many adventures that we can and I am excited to say that much of time has been filled successfully. Two days ago, we started our morning with a three hour drive north of Johannesburg to Sun City. Here at Sun City, we were able to taking in the sights and sounds of one of Africa's most renown epicenters of entertainment. While we were able to enjoy the atmosphere of the incredible palace, entertainment center, and water park, our purpose for being at Sun City was much more exciting than flashing lights and beautiful decorations. We had a date with elephants.

Located on the premise of Sun City is the Pilanesberg National Park, which is home to numerous wildlife interaction experiences. Of these experiences, Simone and I had booked a two hour elephant interaction lunch, where we were able to feed, pet and dine along side six gorgeous African elephants. Needless to say the experience was breathtaking. Standing face-to-face with the larger land mammal in the world, Simone and I hand feed five adult elephants and enjoyed the company of a adorable 20 month old baby elephant. It was hard not to be intimidated by the size and power of these gentle giants, but the intelligence of these animals as we feed them put our minds at ease. Simone did have an especially close interaction with one elephant as she was accidentally knocked over by the bull of the group, but thankfully she was fine. In the end, it was truly a once in a life time experience!

Being back in the business of the city, Simone and I have been busy taking in the wonders and excitement to be found in downtown Joburg. Yesterday, Simone and I made a trip to the South African Brewery (SAB) World of Beer. Rated as the number one tourist attraction in Joburg for 2009, the SAB World of Beer featured a 90 minute tour, discussing the history of beer from ancient Egypt, its development through the ages, and its current manufacturing process. The tour was not only informative and interesting, but interactive as we were physically moved through the different eras of beer development and it's own history in South Africa.

At the end of the day, even with all of my adventures, I am still very excited to come home to my family, friends, and way of life in America, but I am very glad to say that our time here in South Africa has been life changing. With six days left before we head to O.R. Thambo Airport, we plan to squeeze in a few more adventures while we are packing up our bags. Hope to blog one more time before our big flight!

Tot volgende tyd (Until next time in Afrikaans)

Mike

African Culture at its Finest

After a busy, tiring, and yet exciting past four months here in South Africa, Simone and I have began to see that our journey is quickly coming to a close. While we both are excited to return to our families, friends, and the country that we both call home, we recognize the limited amount of time that we have left to take in this wonderful country.

Over these last few months, I have experienced adventure and entertainment ranging from incredible wildfire to breath-taking natural wonders, but I knew that I could not leave this culturally rich continent with out experiencing the wonder that comes from the numerous tribes of Africa. Thankfully, this past Saturday Simone and I were able to make a short 30 minute trip away from Joburg to a village where several of the South African tribes have come together to share their cultures with the public. This place was the Lesedi Cultural Village.
For 3 hours, Simone and I were led through the Lesedi Cultural Village were we were given a first hand glimpse into the lives of the Pedi, Zulu, Sotho, Ndebele, and Xhosa tribes. Our cultural adventure began with a movie that helped give the history of the tribal cultures of Africa and the evolution of South Africa through it's bushmen and regional tribes up to the struggles of the Apartheid and the birth of modern SA. The movie was very informative and interesting, but Lesedi was sure to go far beyond a simple documentary. After the film, the real experience began.

Upon leaving the theater, Simone and I were lead through the trails of the grounds and arrived at our first authentic tribal village. This first stop was the home of the Pedi tribe. The Pedi tribe are most distinctly recognized by their Scottish kilts. Yes, I said Scottish kilts. The story of the kilt wearing Pedi is that during a war between the Pedi and the British, the British troops lined the front of their ranks with kilt-clad Scottish highlanders. Seeing the Scottish in their kilts, the Pedi chief ordered his warriors not to attack because he believed that the British had placed women at the front of their lines. This mistake proved costly to the Pedi, and after a horrible defeat they adopted the wearing of the Scottish kilt so to never forget their gallant error. We also learned that a lesser know fact of the Pedi is that one of their favorite snacks is dried caterpillars, which Simone and I bravely tried (not recommended).

After the Pedi, we were off to the Zulu village. The Zulu are know as the fiercest warriors of South Africa. Led by the notorious Zulu chief, Shaka Zulu, the spear welding Zulu's helped to protect African culture from being stamped out by invading Imperialism.
From the Zulu, Simone and I then traveled to the village of the peace mountain-dwelling Sotho. Concentrated mostly in the nation of Lesotho (a small independent country located in the heart of South Africa), the Sotho are identified by their conical hats (representing their mountain homes), colorful blankets, and relaxed demeanor.

Lastly, we made a trip to the village of the Xhosa (when trying to pronounce, replace the "x" with a click sound). As can be imaged, this tribe, which is native to the eastern cape of South Africa, is recognized best by their unique language which consists of various integrated click sounds among the syllables. I for one cannot even began to try and pronounce many of the words because my tongue was only brought up to perform hard vowel sounds...



At the end of our tour, Simone and I were treated to a wonderful presentation of African dancing and a buffet consisting of many local favorites. The day was certainly one that I will never forget.


Enkosi kakhulu (Thank very much in Xhosa)

Mike

From the Sea to the Mountains

It has been quite a while since I have written a blog entry. Part of that reason is that Simone and I have been busy busy BUSY volunteering and working. Thankfully this has helped to make the time go faster (38 days until we fly home) but that is not to say that we haven't been enjoying ourselves on this great adventure.

Things as Sparrow Village have still been our primary objective and I am happy to report that all is well on that front. Simone and I have been working hard to help the many students towards their end of term exams. With the seasons being flipped compared to back home, South African student end their school year in December and enjoy their summer holiday along side Christmas and New Year's. I have been busy remembering all of my math skills from my high school years, while Simone has hand her hands full with Africaans and Accounting. As always, the kids make it all worth it. Many days when we have a little extra time after homework, many of the kids enjoy reading stories. It is always sweet to see how excited they get being able to accomplish such a task!
Other than spending time at Sparrow, Simone and I spend a good portion of the rest of our days helping out Simone's grandparents around their house and office. It is definitely nice to be busy and it makes we look forward to getting back into a work routine when I get home. The good news is that Simone and I have a better glimpse of the future at this moment. As of this last week, Simone and I are both accepted and scheduled to attend the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine as part of the class of 2015. It is not enough to say that we are excited, because right now, it all seems like a dream come true. To be accepted to the same school that is only 4.5 hours away from Chardon is more than I could ask for. On top of things, Michigan State has been ranked in the top 5% of all U.S. medical school programs for the last 10 years. Even though we don't start until May, I am proud and excited to be a medical student and a Michigan State Spartan.

I am glad to say that our time in South Africa has not become all work and no play. Simone and I have been actively pursuing adventure where we can find it. Last weekend, we made a trip to Chameleon Village, the second largest African Market in South Africa. The day was spent touring the many stalls, admiring the beautiful craft, and conducting a healthy amount of gift shopping. Along with enjoying the sights and sounds of the market, Chameleon Village is located near the scenic Hartebeespoort Dam.

Beside gift shopping, Simone and I have made an active effort to make our weekends more interesting. Yesterday, Simone and I enjoyed a nice dinner out at the Cape Town Fish Market, where I was able to enjoy some fine prawns and calamari. Needless to say it was delicious. To make the weekend even more exciting, Simone and I took to the sky this morning, going on a zip-line canopy tour. For 2.5 hours, we enjoyed the beauty of the Magaliesberg Mountains (the second oldest mountain range in the world) via a series of criss-crossing zip lines. The entire experience was not only breath-taking but incredibly exciting as well!
As you can see, life has been busy in deed on this side of the world but I am sure that there will be much more to come soon! I am sure that my next blog entry will come along much sooner and with even more exciting adventures to report.

Tot volgende tyd (Until next time in Afrikaans)

Mike

A Swim with Jaws

The week in Durban has been full of both relaxation and adventure. While the weather several of the days has not been perfect beach weather, Simone and I have still been able to spend plenty of time by the water—swimming, collecting shells, and taking in the sights. Swimming has been a favorite of mine this trip and no dip was better than when Simone and I were joined in the water by some nearby dolphins. After fleeing the water at the first sign of fins, we were able to have a front seat view of over a dozen dolphins riding waves and enjoying themselves in the sea.
Not every day at sea has been the sunny beach weather we all dream of though. A few of the days have been down-right nasty with Gale force winds but even in these moments, I has been a spectacle to take in the power of the ocean and the size of the mighty waves. It sure is not the same as anything that I have seen up at Lake Erie!
But as I said, the days have not just filled with time on the beach but with some great adventures as well. Two days ago, Simone and I ventured 15 minutes south down the coast for an evening at Wild Coast Sun Casino. While Lady Luck did not smile on the two of us during my trip, this was my first time at a casino and was fun to spend my night taking in the lights and sounds.
In a more spontaneous turn of events, Simone and I decided to take a trip inside of our trip. Yesterday, we loaded up in the car and made the two hour drive to downtown Durban were we visited uShaka Sea World, which features the 5th largest aquarium in the world. The day began with a visit to penguin rookery, where we were greeted by over 50 African penguins. Next it was on to the Dolphin Show, which featured 30 minute presentation of the incredible abilities of trained dolphins. After a quick stop at the Seal Show, we were off to the aquarium, which is styled like a giant shipwreck. It was so interesting to see such a vast variety of stunning and unique marine animals. Some of my favorites included the stingrays, colorful starfish, and clownfish.
After finishing our rounds through the aquarium, Simone and I decided to take advantage of one of the more wild opportunities that that park has to offer—shark caging. Putting all logic and reason aside for a moment, Simone and I climbed into a cage and spent 10 minutes dangling in the watery home of over a dozen full size sharks. It was truly an awesome and terrifying experience all in one!
On our way home, we made a quick spin past Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium, which was one of the 2010 FIFA World Cup host stadiums, before heading back for a much needed rest. I think that I may have met my fill of adventure on this mini vacation, but at least I know that my time here in Durban has not been left to waste!
Ek is bly om in een stuk te wees (I’m happy to be in one piece in Afrikaans)
Mike

Somewhere Beyond the Sea

After a busy week of preparation, Simone and I have successfully embarked on our little vacation to the Indian Ocean. Friday morning we woke up at 4 AM and set off on an 8 hour drive across the African countryside. While our little Toyota Conquest lacked cruise control, the drive was a relaxing time—taking in the awesome mountains, valleys and the dramatic vegetation change as we inched closer and closer to the coast.

When we arrived in Glenmore (south of Durban), I took in my first experiences of the mighty ocean. During my entire adult life I had yet to experience any ocean and I am happy to say the Indian Ocean did not leave me disappointed. Once the car was unpacked Simone and I were quick to make our way down to the rocky shore that was now our front yard. Even though the sky was overcast, the winds were up and I was able to take in the majestic power of the sea.

The last few days have consisted of some much needed relaxation and trying to taking in all that the ocean has to offer. Saturday served as a nice recovery day following our road trip. The morning began with an early walk on the coastal boulders, a late home cooked brunch, and a day of exploring the surrounding town.

Sunday brought our first clear, sunny day. While eating our breakfast in the winds of the sea, Simone and I were spectators to both dolphins and whales! It was so incredible to see such animals in the waters right in front of us. Truly a beautiful moment :) But now it was time for me to join my new found friends with the salty waters. After our breakfast we loaded our beach gear and ventured to the sandy shore of nearby Port Edward. Before long, Simone and I were toasting ourselves on the beach and I took my first swim in the ocean. Thankfully, Simone was there to show me how to take on the waves. The memories that I have already made (and the sunburn that I have received already!) will not be soon forgotten!

Oh to be at the bottom edge of world!

Ek is lief vir die see (I love the sea in Afrikaans)

Heritage Day in the R.S.A.

Another busy week in South Africa filled with volunteering, running around, and a public holiday. Most of this week has been focused around today, Heritage Day. For the last three weeks, Simone and I have been spending extra time after homework sessions working with the kids at Sparrow in preparation for their annual Heritage Celebration. Every year groups of children at Sparrow but together different acts and items that capture the culture here in South Africa, and present them during a big program. We had the pleasure of working with two groups of kids for this year’s program. Our first group consisted of around a dozen 7 year olds that were nicknamed the Rainbow Buddies. We helped the kids paint a South African flag using their hand prints and lead them in singing the SA national anthem. Needless to say it was adorable. Our other group, was a group of 4 teenage boys that were performing a bit of a Scottish dance in honor of Rev. Corrine McClintock, the founder of Sparrow. Taking some bits from Braveheart, we helped paint their faces in Scottish colors and taught them a very, VERY simplified version of the Scottish sword dance. Thankfully, the guys had fun with it and Rev. Corrine seemed to enjoy it.

The rest of the program was filled with singing and dancing, all in the spirit of Africa. It was very exciting to be a part of this special event at Sparrow because it allowed us to see the Sparrow Village community come together as a whole, and it exposed to more of South Africa’s rich culture. With this event behind us, we can now get back to the homework and the students upcoming exams!

As stated before, the weeks have been plenty busy with other bits of running around. Simone’s grandmother has been battling some health programs so we have been doing what we can, where we can to help out. Thankfully, she seems to be doing better and we should be able to cap off the week on a positive note with her birthday.

Simone and I are still pursuing the gym actively, as I am trying to gain some physical change from this trip as well as mental, emotional, and cultural. Things seem to be off to a good start but I have a long road ahead of me…

Other than all of this, we have been in a bit of a lull when it comes to adventures. We are starting to gear up for a week in Durban, where we will be able to take in the sights and sounds of the Indian Ocean. We have budgeted for several more exciting outings but are keeping them for the end half of our trip. But what can I say…everyday in SA is an adventure in itself.

Ek mis Amerika en almal daar (Missing America and everyone there in Afrikaans)

Mike

Night of the Carnivore

As always, Simone and I have been busy with all different aspects of our African adventure. Our most recent escapade was to the Carnivore restaurant for our one year anniversary celebration. This event had been planned since before we flew to SA so it was crazy to finally be at this exciting and interesting restaurant. The Carnivore of Johannesburg is a wild game cooking, African themed venue that is unique to only three places in all of Africa (the Johannesburg restaurant being the only one in all of South Africa). At Carnivore, the name is very fitting as the menu consisted of zebra, impala, kudu, crocodile, and gemsbok. This was certainly not a place for any of you vegetarians! All of the meat is cooked of a giant fire pit that is in the center of the restaurant and the costume-clad circulate with the simmering meat on huge skewers. When you are ready to take for the a particular meat, the waiters use a machete-like sword and slice the wild game on to your plate (below). The entire meal is all you can eat and when you have met your maximum you surrender by lowering a paper South African flag on your table. Truly an interesting and delicious experience!

Of course, we have not lost sight in our reason for being in South Africa in the first place. Our week days have continued to be filled with volunteering at Sparrow and our shadowing at the Right to Care Themba Lethu HIV Clinic. At Sparrow, we are making our final push toward studying for upcoming exams and the big Heritage Day performance. It looks like we will be putting in some long days this week but the kids sure make it all worth it. At Themba Lethu, we were lucky enough to attend the physicians’ lecture sessions Friday morning and another session of ward rounds. It is very exciting and interesting to observe the unique patient cases that all the physicians come toward to discussion. I only wish that I was able to help contribute toward the conversations but hopefully in a few years I will get my own chance :)

Well, it is the beginning of week 7 over here and we are still going strong. Missing home more and more with every passing day, but I can happily say that RSA is taking good care of us.

Alles is goed (All is good in Afrikaans)

P.S. My computer is back and working great. Unfortunately my hard drive had to be replaced so everything this save to just my laptop is gone forever...include the now officially lost blog entry. Oh well. Win some, loss some...