Sopa~~ Hello in Maasai

More than a hundred years ago, the Maasai ruled over much of East Africa. Their feared warriors were renowned for their bravery and cattle stealing escapades. At which time countless Maasai lived inside the lush green Ngorongoro Crater. East Africa chose to make the crater a national park, thus forcing the Maasai to reservations out side the crater. They continue to cling tenaciously to their culture and customs, while the pressures of the modern world build up around them. Their many rites of passage--rituals that transpires the participant from one stage of life to the next, give life a meaning and purpose that is often lacking in other cultures.

The Maasai Tribe were so intriguing to me. From the bright colorful shawls, to the jewelry and its meaning, to the spears and sticks the men continually carry. Going to a Maasai village was one of the most extraordinary things I did while in East Africa. This particular tribe live high above the crater, but still have grazing rights inside the Crater. Each day the young men and boys herd the cattle approximately thirty miles from their village to inside the crater. They stay with the herd, protecting them from all predators and thieves. At the end of the day it is backup the very steep road, back to the village where the herd will stay inside the enclosed fence area of at the village. The amazing thing is the herders have no water or food for the duration of the day.

When I first arrived at the Maasai village in the Upper Rift Valley, I was nervous with anticipation, but curiosity. After paying a small fee to the leader, I was soon the center of attention. Oh my! I soon found myself encircled by the men of the tribe, singing and chanting a welcome song and all the while dancing and jumping with spears in their hands. For a brief moment I wondered if I was going to be dinner!!! As the men continued to dance around me, the women of the tribe stood almost reverently singing a different song. I was told that the men and women never sing the same song, as the men and women have different roles in the welcoming process. However, then again the men and women have different roles in the Maasai Tribe. The men do very little, yet the women do almost everything, from building the house, to hunting for food, and caring for the children.

After I had officially been welcomed as a guest, I was allowed to enter the small fence compound they call home. I am sure my eyes spoke volumes about my many thoughts. I tried to take photos without making them feel like they were on display, but I really had a hard time not just staring.

There were small children crawling around in the cow manure left from the night before, a woman was beating the hair off a cow hide that had recently be scarified, and the village women had a huge circle of beaded jewelry set up all of which was for sell. So much of what the villagers wear are symbolic of some thing. They were red as they think the lions are color blind and there fore can't see them. The jewelry also has meanings. A mother can not wear earrings unless she as had a son that has been circumcised. A young boy can not carry a spear unless he has killed a lion, of which makes him brave and a warrior of the tribe. Customs worlds apart from Americans.

I was invited into one of the twenty-nine huts, to sit and have tea, but it was so small and very stinky. The huts are made from mud, cow dung, urine and sticks, no wonder they smell. Shortly after entering the hut I got claustrophobic and ask to please move on. The head matriarch continued to show me all the village including the school. The children obviously rehearsed were in a small pen looking room chanting and singing the A,B,C,'s and counting for me. One small child caught my attention as he or she kept waving and smiling at me. I so wonder what the thoughts were of this young Maasai.

After an hour asking questions and trying to take it all in we left. These people are without a doubt the most intriguing people, with the most intriguing customs and cultures I have ever seen. Should I ever have the opportunity to visit Africa again I would love to spend a day or two with the Maasai.

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Maasia Village

2/3/09

From Mom: Everyone, today is the last day of safari. Yesterday was great. I got charged by a huge elephant, wow! I also was a guest at Massai Village--very interesting to say the least. Africa is a totally different world and I am amazed. I will be meeting the AILC group tomorrow and have been invited to Bryson's house to meet his family and have dinner before flying out to Kenya. Love ya all! So far, what an AWESOME experience!

From Andi: Take care of yourself, my friend. I am so proud to call you my friend. I miss you tons. ENJOY YOUR BUCKET LIST. I can't wait to see what's next. I'm sure the list goes on forever! Love, Andi

From Sana: Our hearts are very proud of you. The team leaves today and we are packed and ready to meet you at the airport soon. Here's my in-country phone 0716266038. Looking so forward to seeing you.

From Tiffany: Wow! I'm not sure what is going on in this picture, but it's interesting. I am glad your trip is all you dreamed of. Have a good time at Bryson's house and call me when you get to Kenya.

See Ya Soon Baboon! ~~Ngorongoro Crater

Brykn, Heres your elephant!! He is a little to big to rope and way to big for Grandma's suitcase!! Love Grandma

Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro is a fascinating and unusual thus making it the eighth wonder of the world. The area which includes the Ngorongoro Crater at its centre, then extends through the Crater Highlands, in which local tribes are permitted to maintain their traditional lifestyles in as natural environment as possible. This extraordinary volcanic landscape is rich and fertile, with stunning craters and lakes, and the high altitude creates a malaria-free micro climate. The crater is said to have the most dense concentration of wildlife in Africa.
Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest intact caldera in an exceptional geographical position, forming a spectacular bowl of about 265 sq km with sides up to 600m deep. It is the stalking ground of 2000 - 30,000 wild animals at any one time. The crater floor consists of a number of ecological environments that include grassland, swamps, forests and Lake Makat, a central soda lake filled by the Munge river and home to several hundred hippo. All these various habitats attract various wildlife to drink, wallow, graze, hide or climb. Although animals are free to move in and out of this contained environment, the rich volcanic soil, lush forests and spring source lakes on the crater floor tend to incline both grazers and predators to remain throughout the year. The Crater is also presently one of the most likely areas in Tanzania to see the endangered Black Rhino, as a small population are thriving in this idyllic and protected environment one of the only areas where they continue to breed in the wild.
The Crater rim, over 2,200 metres high, touches swathes of clouds for most days of the year, with cool high altitude vapours that seem to bring a clean lightness to the air, and also a chill.

Ngorongoro Crater meaning "Cowbell" in the Massai language, truly was a breath taking sight and a once in a life time opportunity. Driving from Arusha which was rather low in altitude, we drove to 7300 feet. The view was fantastic as we looked out over the crater that lay thousand of feet below. From the look out you see large herds of Water Buffalo, and Wildabeast. The high land which was very green with thick lust trees and shrubs is also home to several Water Buffalo. Suddenly two Water-Buffalos charged on to the dirt road, sort of like the greeting crew. A quick as they appeared, they disappeared, and off all times I didn't have my camera out and ready to shot.

Also along the road there were many, many Massai warriors walking, where they were going I have no idea. From 7300 feet we drove down a narrow, rough and very steep dirt road ending up in the crater itself. There are many wives tales as to how the crater was formed, one being it was it was a mountain until it erupted, leaving nothing but a crater. There are thousands of animals in the crater, some of which do migrate. However, due to the large amount of food year round most make the crater home.

Emanuel had told me all about seeing the BIG 5...elephant, rhino, lion, water buffalo and leopard. He had explained to me that rarely do people see all five in one safari. I suppose he had been told of my determination, by Bryson and Andrew. I wasn't going to leave until I saw all five, or at least gave it on heck of a good try. With the top off the Land Rover, I rode standing up for eight hours. All of it was so cool and very relaxing. First we were able to locate the herd of Water Buffalo's, and then much to Emanuel's surprise several lions. One of which came over to the Land Rover and look up at me, then laid down in the shade of the Land Rover. We were unable to move as his back legs and tail were under the back wheels. It was great just to stand and quietly watch the massive beast. I remember thinking, oh boy I sure hope he doesn't decide to jump in the Land Rover.

In the thicker tree areas of the crater there were so many different types of monkeys and baboons and birds. They stay high as not be lunch for a creature bigger than they are. All the monkeys fascinated me, as we only see monkeys in the zoo, not running around like cats and dogs.

One specific herd of Water Buffalo must have numbered two thousand. Even though they out numbered us by a long wasy, they were not bothered by us at all. When I seen them, all I could think was how bad Buck, and TJ want go hunting for a trophy Cape Buffalo. One day I would love to come back to the crater with them both, not to hunt, but simply so they can enjoy the beauty of it all.

So many animals all living in harmony, and living by the rules of nature. What a sight to see. It was difficult to see the other end of the crater from the opposite end. Seeing a laughing hyena and a jackal living side by side was a sight to see. It was a little like the Jackal was playing cat and mouse with the hyena, but the hyena didn't care, that was for the time being.

The most amazing site came about six hours into the safari. A pair of Leopards were protecting a fresh kill of a baby. We stayed at this sight silently watching the pair enjoy their lunch and dinner all the while not moving or going any closer. Now all we had left to see was a rhino in the BIG 5. Emanuel, and I both had smiles on our faces as I seen two Black Rhinos in the distance. Though I could see them in the binoculars I was unable to get a real good photo. Photo or no photo I had seen the BIG 5. Emanuel keep saying you are so lucky! Many people never see a lion or a rhino in the crater.

Zebras are in abundance in the crater, they number close to 10,000. I suppose I am fond of the zebras as they are close relatives to horse. There were so many foals in the herd, they are playful, just like horses. All zebras, I was told have a distinctive strip pattern and no two patterns are the same. Sort of like a finger print on a human.

My day at the crater was so much more than I had ever hoped for and I would recommend everyone try to see it first hand. While on the safari, I thought about my old African friend Mabel. I wondered if she after returning to West Africa had ever got the chance to enjoy a safari? As we drove up out of the crater, one last look back at the most awesome place I've seen. Here's to Africa's natural beauty and the animals and Massai who live there.

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SEE YA SOON BABOON!

2/2/09

Brykn, see you soon baboon! Sorry, Grandma couldn't’t rope an elephant. He was mean and too big plus Grandma forgot her rope. Thank you so much for the Valentine. It makes me so happy! I read it every day. I love you little buddy!

Big Baby~ Tarangire Park & Lake Manyara Safaris

Lake Manyara

The last day of my three day safari was spent at Lake Manyara. This unusual park lies in the shadow of the Great Rift Valley whose reddish brown escarpment wall looms 1,950 feet high on the eastern horizon. Waterfalls spill over the cliff and hot springs bubble to the surface in the south. Much of the park often appears to be in a heat haze created by the soda lake called, Lake Manyara. The Maasai also lived in vase numbers on the land of Lake Manayra, named for the large numbers of Manyara Trees, of which they built their huts out. The lake attracts considerable bird life, and its surrounding terrain contains such a rich mosaic of different habitats that it supports a large number of animals.
The park is accessed by road via the village of Mto wa Mbu, an eclectic market town where several tribes have converged to form a linguistic mix like nowhere else in Africa.

The unique surroundings attract species such as monkeys, antelopes, zebras, hippos and crocodiles, buffalo, giraffe and a high density of elephants. The park is particularly known for its tree-climbing lions, who may be seen sleeping off the heat of the day on a branch instead of a shady spot on the ground like most other lions.
Fish-eating birds inhabiting the lake include pelicans, storks, cormorants and Egyptian geese. Flamingos colour the lake pink as they arrive to feed at the lake during their migration. One unforgettable sight is a giant flock of red billed quelea who gather in their thousands and waft over the water like a giant swarm of insects.

After three days of safaris just when I thought I had seen it all. There was one more incredible animal appear, on more geographic wonder looming in the horizon and one more once in a life time photography moment to be enjoyed.

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Tarangire National Park

Driving from Moshi to the Tarangire National Park took three hours. However, I found myself so amazed with the sites, the people, and Africa in general. There are hundreds of people walking along the highways with nothing in sight. I had to wonder just where were they going, and how long it was going to take them? There were so many small children grazing herds of cattle, sheep, goats and donkeys along the roads. All the sites brought so many questions to my mind. It was like being in a different world, a world I have only seen in the National Geographic.

Soon we, my guide, Emanuel, and I were at the Tarangire National Park, site of my first safari. After obtaining all the permits, we were off. Only two minutes into the safari, there stood a herd of giraffes just fifty feet from the Land-Rover. The giraffes were so majestic and graceful as they walk towards us as if to say hell-0. They look so different in their natural habit, rather than a zoo. I told Emanuel about Brykn wanting me to rope an elephant for him. He laughed and said he'd see what he could do to hope fulfill Brykn's wish!!



There were also so many termite mounds in the Tarangire National Park, some of which were huge and had mongooses running in and out of them. The mounds are much different than I supposed they would be, I really thought they would be like an ant mound. No where close!



The natural landscape of the park was breath taking, and seem to go as far as I could see. The Acacia Trees a symbol of Africa, are very thorny with little leaf cover. Funny the baboons never seemed to mind the thorns and could be seen preached high in the branches.

Beneath a Baobab Tree, (the tree of life) a lioness and her cubs were taking an afternoon nap. Once I'd seen the lions I realized, I am in Africa. The lioness never acted annoyed with us, but did keep one eye on us and one eye on her cubs.

Each time I seen a different animal, I was so taken with the whole experience. I was wishing someone else could have been there with me to see the amazing sights of East Africa.

Along with the many, many different animals in Africa there are just as many birds. All of which are very colorful and sing such beautiful songs. The entire first day of my three day safari was spectator and a little unreal, as I never thought I would ever have the luxury of going on a safari.

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SUCH A BIG BABY!

Mom left on her Safari and she finally got a picture of an elephant! Kelli and I decided that we didn't care if she had to go to a zoo to get a picture of an elephant because Tate and Brykn haven't quit talking about them! It sure looks like the safari is a blast.

From Mom: Well, it's day 5 and I am off on safari. I slept better last night, but I can hardly move this morning. My feet, legs, and hips hurt so bad. Lots of hugs.

From Mom: First day of safari was great, but tell Brykn those elephants are too big to rope! I am at the Farmhouse now & what a beautiful place. Doing good, except my legs and feet are in bad shape from climbing Kili. Happy Birthday, Mom, I love ya.

From Tiffany: I bet! Brykn luvs the elephant picture. I am glad the Farmhouse is nice. If you can, get on your blog. So many people are following your journey. Wish I was there. Luv you!

From Kristina: Hopefully you packed some good meds! Or, could you even take aspirin into another country? Sounds like you planned a way fun trip! Stay safe, Love Kristina.

I DID IT!!! & All The Way Down....

L-R Andrew, Lauri, Bryson, Kennedy, Uto

Descending off Kilimanjaro, I wasn't so sure it wasn't going to be "Kill-My-Aunt-Lauri." It was the longest walk ever. About half way down I started feeling the effects of the change in altitude, and major jet lag. I became so dizzy, light headed, nauseated and very shaky. Bryson keep telling me, he thought I should let him get me an emergency cart. Anyone who knows me, knows that was out of the question. My reply to him was, " I will go down off this mountain, the same way I went up, that is on my own two feet, and I don't care if it takes me another eight hours. He just grinned and we kept walking Pole-Pole. Andrew one of my porters, was so cute with me, he stayed with me the whole time and just kept telling me I was doing great. When we finally reached the gate at Marangu Route I was totally exhausted. I signed out as a climber off the mountain. YES, I did it!!! However, I don't want to do it again anytime soon. There have been a few times in my life that I have been exhausted, but never to the point of collapsing. Coming off of Kili, I truly was to the point of collapsing.

For the next three days my legs hurt so bad, I had a hard time walking. I suppose no success in life comes without pain.

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I DID IT!!!

It was off for a the second day of hiking. I had already been warned today would be a long hard hike, so I tried to give myself a pep talk as I left the Mandara Campsite. Today's, hike would encompass hiking out of the rain forest, through the Moorland and finally reaching the Alpine Desert, estimated hike time seven- hours. I really enjoyed the Rain Forest and the Moorland, but when we reached the Alpine Desert about six hours in to the hike I lost steam. Bryson took my day pack, of which he said was very heavy and it was no wonder I was getting tired. I was convinced had he of not taken my pack I would not of made it.



I was so extremely exhausted, when I looked back at how far I had come on the mountain. It was like the clouds were following me and pushing me from behind and at times it was a little eerie. There in the distance I could see the Horombo Huts elevation 13, 487.

Day four would be the longest and most difficlut and there really was a time when I thought of giving up, but I just keep putting on foot in front of the other. I laid my flag on a rock, read it and reread it. Trying to keep the messages and the meaning of the flag in my mind. Then as I was listening to my MP3 player, Jewel's, song "A Stronger Woman" came on. I knew I couldn't give up after hearing the lyrics of "I will be a stronger woman, a stronger woman--the kind I'd want my daughter to be!" With my flag in my hand and the song lyrics in my mind, I had a bit of renewed energy as I went the last hour of my twelve hour hike.



there it was the highest free standing peak in the world and I was seeing it first hand. Also coming into camp there were my Austrian friends, Nina and Martin running towards me cheering as loud as the could. Tears were rolling down my face, as I had reached my goal. I had so many thoughts swirling in my mind, one being Mt. Kilimanjaro is a long ways from Goshen, Utah.

I had DONE IT! As I watched the sun set from 15,463 feet on Mt. Kilimanjaro it was a breath taking view as you could see the lights of Tanzania and Kenya as if they were a miniature villages at Disneyland. Sitting on the deck of the mess hall, I had the chance to visit with so many people from so many different walks of life. Funny not a sole from Utah, but several from the US.

I did sleep a little better, but jet lag was catching up with me. Bryson had explained to me I would need to be up and ready to descend the mountain at 6:00 am. As the sun came up over the "Roof of Africa" I was up and enjoyed my last view of the Uhuru Peak. Not only was the peak a beautiful site, but the sunrise was unbelievable. Standing in awe of the sunrise with the cloud cover below me was absolutely incredible. It was truly was a sight I'll never see again.

Before I started the descend I had one last request to fill, that was to bring back a pruddy rock for TJ. Though I had looked for one going up the trail I couldn't seem to find the perfect rock, as they all looked the same. Finally, I found a handful of rocks all a little different, all from 15, 463 feet on Kili. I hope they all make TJ smile. Now I have paid him back for all the rocks he brought me from every hunting trip for the last fifteen years.

Soon it was down the mountain with a new renewed energy in our steps. Well, so okay the porters had new found energy. They are amazing as they literally run up and down the mountain carry forty pounds on their heads, many wearing nothing more than flip-flops and shorts. Not only do they have to carry it all up the mountain, but what ever is taken up, must be carried back down. That includes all trash used in making the trip. There are even porters who's job it is to carry cases of beer and Coke to each campsite. Watching them I was thankful for my job at Mountain View Hospital and the wages I make. Porters make about $4000.00 per year and their job is anything, but easy. I remember watching them miles ahead of me on the trail. I thought how different my life would have been had I been born in Africa.




The porters, the cooks and the guides all have to go to school in order to work in their respective jobs. Bryson, told me school in not easy and it is very expensive. My thinking was what can someone teach you about carry forty pounds on your head, maybe find an easier job. Most clients tip them about twenty dollars for the three-four day hike. Call me a sucker again, I tipped them each fifty dollars. I thought about what I do for fifty dollars in comparison to what they do, it was money well spent.



Before leaving the Kibo Hut, Nina and Martin gave me one last hug and wished me well. I in returned told them to give the summit HELL! They laughed and said they had never heard that before... They waved and cheered as I began my descent off Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Going down I was over come with a sense of pride and accomplishment and so wished someone could have been there in person to see me reach my goal. I was grinning from ear to ear not only on the outside, but on the inside as well!

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I DID IT!!!!

How hard to realize that every camp of men or beast has this glorious starry firmament for a roof! In one such place standing alone on Mt. Kilimanjaro, it is easy to realize that whatever special nests we make - leaves and moss like the marmots and birds, or tents or piled stone - we all dwell in a house of one room - the world with the firmament for its roof - and are sailing the celestial spaces without leaving any track. ~John Muir

She did it!!!! She got to 15,463 feet and said it was the hardest thing she's ever done. We were able to talk to her on the phone for just a few minutes and it was soooo good to hear her voice--even though she sounded absolutely exhausted. She told me shared a hut with a cute, younger couple from Austria. When she got to the hut on the fourth night (after she'd made it to her goal height on Kili), the couple CHEERED as loud as they could. As she told me about it, she started to cry--but, I know they were tears of pride and accomplishment. She also told me that on the way down, she got light-headed, dizzy, nauseated and very quivery. The porters and her guide, Bryson, asked her if she wanted them to call emergency personnel and get her a cart. She told them "There's no way in hell I'm going to let you call emergency people for me!" I can just hear her voice saying that! Anyway, she made it up in three days and down--35 miles-- in one day. Way to go Mom--we all knew you could do it; and, while we may not have been there by your side, we were all there in spirit!

1/30/09

From Kristina: I am so glad you made it there safe and sound!! Sounds like you are already having a blast! Stay away from the monkeys, they're mean! You are amazing!! And, no worries, this half-assed Mormon is back here praying for ya! Love Ya! Kristina.

From Karen Boothe: Leslie Dicou wants to know the names of the porters.

From Mom: Hey everyone! I DID IT!!! I am tired, but good. What an awesome experience, but I don't want to do it again anytime soon. Love to all

From Andi: You are so awesome. I'm so proud of you. What a cool bucket list.

From Sana: That tired gives more to your spirit. Go get every adventure.

From Mom: Well, I am back off the longest, most difficult walk I have every done. All I can say is be careful what you put on your "Bucket List!" Going up there was a time that I thought of giving up. Then the song "Stronger Woman" by Jewel played on my MP3 player. I had to finish. All I can say is it is a long way from an ICU bed at UVRMC and U of U! I hope I've made everyone proud and let everyone know you can go far beyond what you think you can!!! Love Lauri, Mom & Grandma XOXO

From Toni: Congrats Aunt Lar way to go we are proud as hell of you!

From Kristina: I knew you could do it! What an amazing woman you are! I am really proud of you and jealous cause its something I could probably never do! Way to go! Love Kris

From Sana: Proud you should be at what you set out to do and look what you have become. My heart is waving with thumbs up. WAY TO GO!

From Tiffany: Way to go! I knew you could do it! Please send any pictures when you can. Great job, Mom! Love you!

From Steve: Hey Lauri. I knew you would make it. I am proud of you. Be careful. See you soon. Luv, Steve

From Andi: I'm glad that part of your bucket list is done (climbing Kili). Now, onto better things. I think you could rope an elephant, especially for Brykn. Please take care of yourself, my friend. I am so proud of you and I miss you tons.

From Mom/Jacquie: We knew you could do it. You have the stubborn Hopes blood. Love you, Mom & Jacquie

From Karen Boothe: (via card sent with Leslie) I never doubted that you would reach your goal on Kili. I only wish I could have been there too! We'll get together soon for an adventure together. Thanks for letting me be part of your great experience! Love Karen

First Night~~~Mandara Huts

On the way to the first nights lodging there were so many beautiful things. From the canopy of tropical trees covered with moss, to the African Impatiens, the Bloody Lilies, and waterfalls everywhere. It was an amazing hike. Once at the Mandara Huts I once again had to check in, but not before each member of my team was there to do a round of high fives. After checking in I was given the key to hut number seven, and was soon joined by my two new Austrian friends husband and wife, Nina and Martin. Nina was the person I had asked to take a photo at the base of the Mt. Both Nina and Martin spoke very good English, and were very comfortable to be around. Being in the company of those from other nations, I learned most all speak several languages and speak them very well. Then, there was me, I was doing good to say "Jambo" hello in Swahili.

After settling into hut number seven, I simply wanted to take in some of the happenings about the Mandara Campsite. The guides and porters quarters are on the opposite side of the guest huts. It was amazing to see all the porters, cooks and guides bustling about just to ensure the clients were taken care and happy with everything. Soon one of my porters came with a basin of hot water and soap so I could wash up and get ready for afternoon TEA. I took one sip of the tea and that was enough for me. I'm no sure what type of tea it was, but it was definitely not Lipton.


After tea, Andrew, one of my porters, and I walked a short distance up to the Maundi Crater. From which you could see Tanzania on one side and Kenya on the other. What an amazing sight to see two different countries from the top of one mountain. Plus in the trees there were several "Bush Babies," a small rarely seen bush monkey. I think Andrew was more impressed with the Bush Babies than I was. Once back at the Mandara Campsite dinner was ready, but I wasn't, as my stomach was upset from the altitude. Some of the dishes at dinner I knew what they were, others I had no idea. I found the key was to take a rather small bite and try to figure it out. This is how I got my first taste of GOAT, yes goat and Cucumber soup. GROSS!!!!!! I really do not think anyone should make soup out of a cucumber. After getting both in my mouth the trick was getting it out..... The whole time I was thinking of a Big Mac & Fries, and honestly couldn't wait to get back to my hut and find a Power Bar.

Shortly, after dinner it was off to hut number seven for a restful nights sleep, yeah right! I knew the altitude makes ones urinary tract system work over time, but this was ridiculous. Every two hours I was runny to the long drop. The bad things was the long drop was a good hundred yards away and the monkeys and other wildlife were making a horrible racket. I finally learned to step outside the hut, drop my drawers and hurry back inside. The night seems long in a way, but very short in another. At 6am there was a knock on the door, it was Tea time.

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1/29/09
From Mom: Well, I made it through the first night okay. I was glad to get to the first night’s lodging or hut. I still can’t believe I am here. Saw monkeys on the way. It’s very green and thick. Oh & I have to be positive about my job. Average years pay here is $450.00 per YEAR! So, go easy on the luxuries of the 44 oz Diet Cokes. Love Ya, Mom, Lauri, and Grandma

1/29/09
From Tiffany: Awesome! I am so proud of you! You have had tons of replies to your messages. They are on your blog and mine. I told Brykn you saw monkeys and he wants to know if you have got his elephant. He says we can put it in the barn. Hang in there today! You are doing great. And, the picture was awesome. We love you!

From Sana: I love knowing you are loving your walk. Those huts are a welcome site. Africa is in every breath. May He continue to watch over your every step.

I've Arrived at the Base of Kilimanjaro

At the Base~~Marangu Route
Thursday January 29th. Bryson, my guide, two porters Andrew, and Kennedy, and my cook Uto, picked me up at the hotel at 9am, for the first day of paper work and hiking the mountain. The ride to the base of Marangu Route was such an eye opener. After all my first sights of Africa were in the dark. Okay, so I had my eyes closed most of the time due to the fact Bryson's driving scared me to death. Finally, I had ridden with someone who's driving scared me more than TJ's does.

This morning I was getting a look at Africa first hand, there is so much poverty compared to American standards. The houses are small shacks, shacks that would make the Goshen Trailer Court, look like the Ritz. There are cows, goats, and donkeys wondering in and out of the strip shops, children running around with no shoes in filth and manure, and women cooking corn on little barbeque's in the middle of it all.

There are fifty-eight million people living in Tanzania, over seventy-five percent of who walk everywhere they go. Needless to say these people are thin and are in great cardio-vascular shape, but I had to wonder about other deficiencies. When Bryson ask about my hometown, I told him the population of Goshen is about eight hundred TOPS. He just laughed and said that in not a town, it's a village.

After a thirty minute drive we were at the base of the Kilimanjaro, Marangu Route. I was surprised at the check in process, the park officials run a tight ship or mountain if you will. I had to fill out several lines of personal information. Bryson had prior obtained the permit to hike and cleared it all through the guard with a large gun. These guards have no sense of humor and take their job very serious. When I asked if he could turn around, so I could get a better photo he yelled at me, I took that as a definite NO!

Not only do the guides and hikers have to check in, the porters and cooks do also. They were all lined up checking in and weighing all the bags. Many of these men, mostly in their twenties and thirty's climb the mountain up to 150-200 times a year. What a hard way to make a living of approximately $200.00-$250.00 a month depending on tips.

Soon we were off up the Mountain, it was hard for me to believe me Lauri Wall, from a small village in Utah, and someone who has never really hiked was trudging up Mt. Kilimanjaro. It was exciting just being on the Mt. after all it is the highest free standing mountain in the world. Not far up the trail a young boy from a near by village came out of the trees holding a stick with a lizard on it. He said something in Swahili, when I ask Bryson what he said? He replied he wants you to take a picture of his lizard for money. Call me a sucker, Yes I did and gave him a dollar. This little boy ran off in to the jungle with a smile on his face, Bryson just shook his head at me but, smiled too. Bryson explained to me everyone no matter the age, has a job to simply survive.

The first days hike was easy about four hours of a steep incline, with the trail being worn and easy to walk on. On the first day we hiked up through the Rain Forest, so it was very beautiful and the temperature was cool. The monkeys jumped from tree to tree high above our heads, as if they were playing games with me. Coming into the Mandara Hut camp site was a welcome site, after all I had, had very little sleep in over a week.
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Well, she made it to her first stop on Kilimanjaro; and, sent us a picture. She looks like she's doing good!
1/29/09
From Mom: Hey, I made it to my first stop!!! This is my first stop for the night. Love ya all.
1/29/09
From Karen Boothe: Jambo! One question you didn't ask-what side of the road does Africa drive on? Ha Ha! Remember, the word of the day is Pole, Pole.
From Sana: Wow you are in AFRICA :) Take it all in with pictures in your heart.
From Jacquie: Glad you made it. Hope you have a good time. Love ya. Jacquie

The Journey Has Begun!~~~Off I Go

Off I Go!!

Tuesday, January 27th 2009, is finally here! The ride to the airport was a little tense, as it was snowing in Utah County, which made me nervous my flight might be delayed. To add to the stress Buck and TJ were a basket of nerves. They both kept asking if I was sure I really wanted to do this? I wondered who needed who the most. At the airport my little buddy was tugging on my leg asking if he could, " Pease go too." After all Brykn so wanted to help me rope an elephant, a task he was convinced would be easy, just like roping a cow. Tiff was excited and happy for me to experience this dream, though I think she was a bit nervous too. Shosho and Sana, the founders of AILC also met me there. They gave me words of encouragement, well wishes, and a set of bells they, themselves had used when they climbed Kili. Also packed safely in my back pack was, two love notes my kids had written to when they were just little, a two dollar bill Tiff always had in her cowboy at when she competed in queen contests, a four leaf clover TJ carried in his shooting bag at the trapshoots, my number from the Race for a Cure, a picture of Brykn and a Valentine he colored for me, a key chain Dad had made me before he passed away, one earring that belonged to Grandma Clara Jerman, and my Guardian angel pin Grandma Ruth Hopes gave me twenty years ago. Around my neck was the locket from Mom.
One more round of hugs and kisses and I was off to gate C5 Delta/NWA airlines for my departing flight at 8:30 am.
All day Tuesday I wasn't really sure if it was day or night, as I went through several times zones. Flying over England, the entire ground was lit up. It was an amazing sight to see, as I realized that so many of my ancestors had come from Cornwall, England.
Flying over Tanzania there were very few lights on the ground, it was almost like there wasn't really life down there. Not a warm fuzzy feeling that is for sure.
I landed in Moshi, Tanzania on Wednesday January 28th 2009 at 21:30, what a LONG ride. TJ would have loved the airport as we had to walk down the stairs and across the tarmac, just like in the movies, but without "the Duke" waiting to help me with my bag.
I couldn't see Bryson (my guide) for a long time and I was a little panicky and starting to get teary thinking I was stuck in Africa not knowing anyone or the language. However, shortly after getting my bags and my Visa for $100.00 I saw him with a sign reading "JAMBO, LAURA ANN WALL!" I was so extremely happy to see him. As I loaded all my bags into his car, I went to the passengers door to get. Bryson, promptly ask if I was going to drive? Little did I know everything is on the wrong side of the car and they drive on the wrong side of the road. The forty minute ride to Moshi Town Bristol Cottage Hotel, was bit scary as we almost hit a bicyclist, not to mention there were so many people walking along the road. Then we were stopped by the police, there were so many things running through my mind. One of which was "What the hell was I thinking coming by myself," and "I could end up missing and my family wouldn't have a clue where to start looking." We soon pulled into the gated hotel, Bryson took care of all the check in process, thank goodness. Soon I found myself in my room, doors securely locked, looking around thinking it looked a bit like the Milford Motel! I didn't want to sleep in the sheets so I used my sleeping bag. I slept fair, it was so noisy and I was a little worried about a mosquito that was buzzing about all night. After all Malaria is so prevalent in Tanzania. The night seemed short, but I was anxious to get started up the Mountain.
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My mom left for Africa yesterday; and, after nearly 20 hours of flight, she FINALLY made it to Tanzania. I was lucky enough to talk to her when she got to the hotel which she described as "just like the Milford Motel." For those of you who have stayed at the Milford Motel, you will know why she then told me that she thought she would sleep in her sleeping bag. :)

Because of the expensive rates to text and talk on the phone, Mom asked me to send her text messages to her friends and our family. Because the text messages are coming from me, however, I am also getting all the replies. So, I'm going to post all the text messages sent both from Mom and to Mom on this blog. Then, when she is able to get to a computer, she can read all the wonderful messages people have sent her way. Keep the messages coming! I know she will LOVE reading them when she can!

1/27/09
From Mom: Hi everyone. I am in Amsterdam, it is 6:30 am. Holy cow what a long ride. I can't see what it looks like its still dark & foggy. I'll be leaving for Africa in 5 hours. I'll text again once I am on the ground in Africa. Love Ya.

1/27/09
From Tiffany: I am so glad you made it okay. So far so good! Please let me know when you get to Tanzania. We love you--big hugs!

From Grandma Hopes: Be careful it sounds like you are having fun. Keep in touch. We all love you.

From Sana: Oh the adventure that awaits. Our sweet prayers and HIS CONSTANT CARE surround you.

From Kelli: Wow I can't believe she is on her way. Tell her that I'm thinking of her when you talk to her next.

From Nadine: Oh, it is soooo good to hear from you. I have been wondering where you are. Stay safe and take in the wonder of life. Ya too! Nadine

From Karen Boothe: Yippe! Hope you were able to get some sleep.

1/28/09
From Mom: Hey I'm here. Holy cow what a ride, and the car ride was a little scary! Everything is on the wrong side and we about hit somebody on a bike. It is hot and humid.

From Karen Spotten: Keep going gal. Miss you already.

From Sana: Holy cow are you having fun??? The adventure begins and we are beside you. Love your heart.