TJ

The flights weren't too bad, really, and it was definitely worth going that far for this holiday. I snoozed, watched a couple of good films, including LION, which I bawled and snivelled through. The hostess arrived with my lunch just as I was in full flow, but she didn't comment. We arrived in Glasgow at the same time as two other planes, so the queue for immigration was horrendous. However, a staff member helping a wheelchair passenger saw my walking stick, and told me to come with her. We picked up JR, who had rushed ahead, and waltzed past the waiting throngs. Enjoyed that. Mind you, we then had to wait for ages for our luggage, but it's always such a relief when you spot it.

Nothing much else to relate today, but we're still glowing about the experience, so I've cheated and added a few more safari shots of TJ - Togara Joseph. He'd greet me every morning on bended knee, holding my wee step to help me clamber up, then just, well, tumble into the vehicle. Equally elegant getting out. That's him explaining about the uses of elephant dung in the bottom left photo. Top right are gnus in the background - crazy looking animals, and one of the 'Ugly Five'.

We were privileged to be able to spend more than six hours a day in the company of this wonderful man. He was so knowledgable, so passionate, so enthusiastic about the animals. We learned so much, and began to understand how all the animals fit in this fragile eco-system, and how each one is important, from termites and dung beetles to elephants and rhinos. He was the only driver without a 'spotter' on the wee seat perched on the front of the vehicle. Possibly because they were all too scared to sit there, but more likely because he didn't need one.

He asked us for feedback on his 'performance', as he wanted to improve his skills.

I gave him 10/10 for tracking.
9/10 for jokes.
11/10 for (crazy but exhilarating) driving.

Thanks TJ, you made our holiday even more memorable than it would have been.

Back home now, and we arrived to a balmy 16° (TJ had laughed heartily when we told him our summer temperatures). Archie did give us a welcome, though nothing like the hysterics of an Elizabeth welcome. He's had a great holiday with Rufus and Christine, and thanks to them we didn't need to worry about him.

Extra: Check out Christine's welcome back nibbles!