My Ode to Road Tripping

Well, I am nearing the end of my road trip across South Africa, and there is so much to say! When I get home I'll be busy updating and informing, sorting through pictures and sending out messages, not to mention finalizing my schedule to register for fall! But the other night when we got back I kind of wrote something in my journal that semi sums up a portion of this amazing week, or at least gives a taste to the delicious cake that is to come!
9 April 2009
What an interesting and exciting adventure the past few days have turned out to have in store for us! We girls believe we are fairly capable people, and well, we have proven to be! We have navigated ourselves successfully across the western coast. From town to town we have been able to find adventure and fun, enjoyment, fulfillment and some culture with out a hitch. We have made it through mountains and hills, oceanside and landlocked- big towns and countrysides. Our battery failed twice, and within two minutes (both times) we had someone there to jump start it. We are recognized by locals as the "5 American Girls" (now four). We have songs dedicated to the 'American Girls' at bars and it is not uncommon for servers at local restaurants to hug us when we leave. Even at 10 at night we bring together security guards, local 'good Samaritans,' and lock smiths who all get to experience Gold Digga and have a good laugh at our ride. We have the ability to find Spars and Pick n Pays everywhere we go, are excellent in finding the freshest bread and have developed an advanced skill of map reading. Through the road trip we have developed a unique friendship based off of things we've found we have in common- frankly that we sometimes wish we had turrets. through encouragement, a push (or shove) in the right direction, maybe even a pat on the back, we have not only mastered driving on the left, but also U-turns, parallels, tight squeezed parking spots and gravel roads. Our skills and talents range from the array of meals we are able to create from 'left overs' and our precise art we have mastered called 'packing the trunk.' From shoes to shirts, food to hair products, we are pro's and experience 'sharers.' Though at times we may be indecisive, one might agree that our spirits, care free, light-hearted attitudes have contributed to the journey. Finding time to laugh about what a pair of heels can do to a night can even make an older hung over lady on a wine tour giggle. Making friends with our drivers and looking for a cultural experience and knowledge will make us wiser. Scaling the mountain side and canoeing the rives will make us stronger. Climbing a waterfall or climbing a mountain will make us closer. We even listened to church through music while drinking wine and eating dinner. we move at a fast pace, eager to see it all and soak it in- yet still appreciate the small things and will always make time for flowers. While growing and learning we capture memories every chance we get. Anticipating the future, yet holding on to our own grass roots. Four together and each one of a kind, coming together for a perfect full house, or at least a comfy car.
Ah, the joys of adventure.
Let the fun continue!
Happy Easter, hope it is a great day! The South African sunrise was beautiful, hopefully the one at home wasn't too cold =)
Be on the look out for more coming your way!