South Africa

“Slowing Down”

In education we are pros at being flexible, planning for all situations, and executing the unexpected pivot. And after our whale watching tour was canceled yesterday, and we had to rearrange our flights today, we continued to execute those skills. 

The whole crew as we say goodbye to Andrew and David, our beloved guides.

Instead of heading to the airport to fly to Cape Town, we spent another day on the eastern part of South Africa, heading into iSimangaliso Wetland Park for a game drive. The extra day allowed us to slow down, and to practice “zen” birding instead of the “extreme” birding we engaged in with David in Wakkerstroom. In iSimangaliso we watched birds hover in the strong head winds, staying still instead of flying off to a destination. We also finally saw a Martial Eagle, a majestic bird that had been mentioned throughout the trip, but not yet seen. Our morning of zen birding reminded us to slow down and to appreciate the little things in life. 

While in iSimangaliso we also saw and caught a Giant Dung Beetle that was flying around, and was able to reflect on his purpose. He uses what most discard (feces) and in turn is able to recycle those nutrients and help build and grow its landscape. Such a tiny creature brought us so much joy, as it was one of the animals we’d missed seeing while in Kruger National Park. We’ve seen and appreciated many of the big things, and today we were able to focus on the tiny miracles. 

A Giant Dung Beetle. These insects fly so haphazardly that they sometimes literally crash land to the ground – providing great opportunities for closer exploration!

After our game drive we headed south to a suburb of Durban, where we could see the majestic Indian Ocean and experience the hustle and bustle of a city. Here we had time to explore and relax, and continue to get to know each other and South Africa. 

In life when you are constantly moving it’s easy to forget that while the big things matter, the little things matter too. In fact, in many cases those little things are the things that TRULY matter. 

As our time here is coming close to an end, we are taking in every last moment, both big and small. We are reflecting on what we have experienced and been through, but also on what has changed in us and the difference we can make when we return home. With only a few days left we are treasuring each and every one of these slow, intentional moments. 

Slowing down and appreciating the beauty of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Blue Ridge

“Inquiry Fever”

Inquiry Fever:  The fervent desire to explore, observe, and learn.

We all have “Inquiry Fever”!  The excitement is contagious.  We spent the day in Stone Mountain State Park, starting with a hike up to the summit for a geology lesson on how the region was formed.  Along the way, we encountered a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers, a Red-spotted Newt, a deceased Eastern Red Bat, fence lizards, a goldfinch, and so much more!!

Next, we went to Roaring Fork River and met representatives from the NC Wildlife Commission. We put on waders and wetsuits and went seining and snorkeling in the river in order to identify a variety of fish, including a Brook Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and a Redlip Shiner.  We were also able to identify three different kinds of crayfish. It was a cool experience — literally — the water was quite cold! To cap off the afternoon, we hiked to Stone Mountain Falls and splashed in the water there.

We are all learning from each other and especially from our leader scientists.  It is awesome to be among like-minded educators who are willing to stop and explore!  For example, we spent a significant amount of time observing and inquiring about two Broad-necked Root-borer Beetles laying eggs.

We are now gathered together at camp working on our projects and smelling delicious burritos cooking.  Can’t wait for tomorrow’s adventures!