I'm back

Sorry, folks, I know you've been anxiously awaiting my next update. The internet has been down for a week at the homebase so I'm using the computer at school. So much has happened in the last week... I'll do my best to recap.

1. Coolest thing(s) I've seen: The view from the top of Table Mountain, the penguins on Boulder Beach, the night sky in Robertson (we swear we can see the Milky Way, it's so clear), sunset in Cape Town, the baboons at Cape Point. I'm keeping a list of unique animal sightings -- it's up to over 20 already!

2. Most interesting thing I've done: Climbed Table Mountain, went horseback riding through a river bed with water up to the stirrups, taught many more 10th, 11th, and 12th graders random bits of knowledge and phys. ed.

3. Recent funny/embarrassing moment: Can't really think of any worth writing about... I'll do better next time.

4. Most frustrating/difficult/uncomfortable situation faced (or in corporate speak, "most valuable learning experience"): I had been subbing for a teacher for the past 3 days. She was supposed to return yesterday but when I got to school, she wasn't here and no one knew where she was. So, I was left to teach 4 periods, with nothing prepared nor a textbook to teach from. Thank God she showed up today. Oh, and the internet being down has been an annoyance.

5. Best food/drink I've had: Ironically enough, it was dinner at a Turkish restaurant in Cape Town -- we had a 3-course feast with cocktails and wine for <$30/person. Or maybe it's the fruit which is grown all over the place and is sooo good!

6. Plans for the upcoming weekend: Going on a Garden Route tour to the west of here. We're going to see caves, ostrichs, monkeys, elephants and beautiful scenery. Some people are going bungy jumping -- I'll watch. Cross your fingers that it doesn't rain. It hasn't rained since we got here and it's supposedly rainy season so we're due.

7. Health: Pretty good, had a scratchy throat this morning but can't really complain.

8. What I miss most: The beach and my bed.

9. Other general commentary. I really wish I could post from the homebase because I have lots of awesome pictures I want to show you. Oh, and my camera made a full recovery from its dip in the stream - hooray! Other than that, the group is getting along pretty well, especially considering how different we all are.

Hope all of you had a great Memorial Day weekend - I miss you!!