Lion lovin' and a near death experiences

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Day 16 (Wednesday 06-May-09, NJJ & JRJ)

Up early at 5.40am for a game drive. Straight away we saw two male lions which we hoped would be an indicator that the day would be full of animal fun. Jamie was gutted because his lion shots were pants though as he'd forgotten to adjust the settings on his camera from the night before - don't think he'll make that mistake again. Also saw elephants, giraffes, zebras, etc. Brunch at 10am, well done once again to Johannes for rustling up a delicious meal. Spent few hours at poolside, was bliss, wasn't expecting this sort of relaxation time at such a lovely pool area during this trip. Had a lesson from Alex on exposure (Jamie later commented on my use of tips from the lesson yippee). 3:00 second game drive of day - saw lioness plus usual other beasties. Back to watering hole for second sunset viewing there - saw two elephants and a rhino and these were backlit by a lightning storm, another fantastic time and we loved capturing it on our cameras. Supper was pasta followed by chocolate-covered fire-toasted marshmallows to fill our bellies for bed. We were excited once again when we saw giraffes at the watering-hole - seven in the area. Just before bed, when we were on the truck cleaning duty, Jamie had what he exaggeratedly called a near death experience with a scorpion then a praying mantis - he nearly stepped on the scorpion and the praying mantis 'attacked' his face (see accompanying pictures of the culprits).

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