Ever since I moved to my village, I have wanted to visit the “dinosaur tracks” nearby. Today, I had that opportunity. The dino tracks are at a nearby farm where visitors can tour the tracks, learn about the geology and history of the area, and stay at a guesthouse or camp. I found the visit tremendously interesting – especially since, as a child, like many of us, I aspired to be a paleontologist.
Below are photos of the Dino Tracks signs, some of the tracks, and our knowledgeable guide.
Today also included a visit to a nearby farm. I am including shots of these cattle as the cattle and meat industry are so important to Namibia’s economy. Currently, the drought conditions are causing a lot of damage and suffering. There was also this newborn, baby calf, which had not yet stood up! Finally, there was an unfortunate incident with this hartebeest, which got caught in the fence and passed away overnight. We had to go and free him from the wire – some of the local people will make “biltong” or dried meat, from the animal carcass.
It was an interesting and informative Sunday! Come visit Namibia!
This week, my blog post revolves around my “Oma Hilda’s” (grandmother) 70th birthday celebration. Oma was my host-mom during the Peace Corps intercultural homestay period that I experienced when I first moved to site. She and I were a perfect fit – we spoke German, laughed, and she was always generous with the wisdom her 70 years have brought her!
We had a wonderful celebration. You can see below how the food was cooked over the open fire, and then also the traditional Herero and Damara tribe’s dress. The Herero dress is Victorian-style inspired, which they adopted from the German colonialists, and the “horn” head scarf is traditional Herero cultural attire.
My host sister, Veru, was also dressed up and looking glamorous. I included another photo of Oma and a friend of ours.
It was one of the best evenings I have had in Namibia – blessed to be truly feeling included and integrated into this family and community. You can see Oma’s orange dress; we were rushing until the very last minute, sewing it from scratch (without a pattern!). It was a lot of fun, and Oma inspires with her young heart and positive attitude.
