WEDNESDAY WALK ABOUT Often when we are on foot, we notice more of natures wonders than we would have if we were driving around. Sopubia karaguensis, commonly known as the Karaguensis Sopubia, is a perennial plant from the family Euphorbiaceae. Native to tropical Africa, this plant is recognized for its ornamental appeal and adaptability to various environmental conditions. Whether grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in a garden, it thrives with minimal care, making it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. Sopubia karaguensis plays a crucial role in its native ecosystem. The plant serves as a valuable food source for various insects and birds, particularly during its flowering season. These pollinators, in turn, contribute to the plant’s reproductive cycle by facilitating the transfer of pollen. Additionally, Sopubia karaguensis can contribute to soil stability and protection against erosion, making it an integral part of its habitat. ( taken from www.botanicalrealm.com)

TRAIL CAM TUESDAY It's as if this young male bushbuck knew someone was watching him. Bushbucks are said to leap up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in the air from a standing position, which helps them escape predators and navigate their environment effectively. Unlike many other antelope species, bushbucks are generally solitary and prefer to live alone or in small groups. Males often avoid each other, maintaining a home range that overlaps with others but rarely interacting. Their reddish-brown coat is adorned with white spots and stripes, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their forested or bushy habitats, which helps them avoid detection by predators. It seems the bushbuck has a complex taxonomic history, with many subspecies being recognized and reclassified over the years. (As of 2018, the Cape bushbuck was identified as a distinct species, highlighting the ongoing research and understanding of these animals.) In some African cultures, bushbucks are considered symbols of fertility reflecting their importance in local traditions. These unique characteristics make bushbucks not only interesting animals to study but also vital components of their ecosystems in Sub-Saharan Africa.

MEMORABLE MONDAYS Today, we wish you to celebrate this Monday in a way that leaves a lasting impression! Let's embrace the spirit of positivity and joy as we kick off the week. In honor of Africa Day today, let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible diversity, rich cultures, and vibrant histories that our beautiful continent has to offer. Share your favorite memories or experiences related to Africa, whether it's travel stories, cultural traditions, or simply what you love about this amazing land. Let’s make this Monday truly memorable together! 💚 #MemorableMondays #HappyAfricaDay #CelebrateAfrica

SUNNY SUN-DAY “When the sun came up… I couldn’t tell where heaven stopped and the Earth began.” – Tom Hanks

SOMETHING FOR A SATURDAY Butterfly season!!! It's really nice to see all the butterflies out in the bush at the moment. they are loving the flowers in full bloom. Turns out we seem to have a few natural butterfly gardens here on the property.

FARMHOUSE FRIDAY When you book to stay with us at the lodge, you get to experience our delicious meals, reminding you of the good ole days where families sat around the dinner table enjoying well-balanced home-cooked meals. Each dish is crafted with love, bringing back memories of warmth and laughter that only a family gathering can evoke. From hearty main courses to fresh, seasonal ingredients, we pride ourselves on serving meals that nourish both the body and soul. Always remember to keep some space for your dessert though! Our sweet treats are the perfect way to end your meal, celebrating the joy of indulgence and making your stay truly memorable. Our dining experience is exclusively for accommodated guests, but campers are welcome too, just give us enough notice! We serve set menus, so please let us know about any dietary restrictions before your arrival to ensure everyone can enjoy our culinary offerings. Join us for a taste of nostalgia and create new memories around our table! Our Dining experience is for accommodated guests, and campers can book as well, we just need enough notice. We serve set menus, so be sure to advise us of any dietary restrictions before your arrival.

THOUGHT PROVOKING THURSDAY When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be - Lao Tzu

WEDNESDAY WALK ABOUT Often when we are on foot, we notice more of natures wonders than we would have if we were driving around. The Aloes have begun to flower! Candelabra Aloe (Aloe arborescens) is well-known for its tall flower spikes bearing clusters of tubular flowers that range from orange to red, sometimes with yellow tips. These flowers typically bloom in winter and are highly attractive to pollinators such as birds and bees. Some key features of Aloe arborescens are: Multi-branched shrub-like aloe that can reach up to 2-3 meters in height. The leaves are fleshy, green to bluish-green, with small teeth along the edges. The flowers are tubular, bright orange-red, arranged in dense clusters on tall stalks. They are ornamental in gardening and help with erosion control, and traditional medicinal applications. This aloe thrives in sunny, well-drained locations and is drought-tolerant, making it ideal for arid and semi-arid climates.

TRAIL CAM TUESDAY Another story in pictures. This is a good looking Kudu bull! Male kudus have the longest horns of any antelope species, with spirals that can reach up to 180 cm (6 feet) in length. These horns are not only a display of dominance but also serve as a defense mechanism against predators. Kudus have vertical white stripes on their coats, which help them blend into their natural habitat for camouflage. Each kudu's stripe pattern is unique, similar to human fingerprints. They are masters of camouflage, with a coat of earth tones that allows them to blend into the bushveld. This ability helps them avoid predators and ensures their survival. They can jump heights of over eight feet, showcasing their agility and strength. This ability is essential for navigating their habitat's challenging terrains. Kudus are social animals but form small groups rather than large herds. They are known to be highly alert and can detect danger using their large, radar-like ears.

MEMORABLE MONDAYS Remembering back to when we last went up to View of the world, "Malindidzimu". These lizards always welcome some refreshing water.

SUNNY SUN-DAY I was thinking about the sunrise, then it dawned on me....

SOMETHING FOR A SATURDAY This not so little, little fella was 4x4'ing his way across the granite dwalas recently. Leopard tortoises can inhabit a variety of environments, primarily found in Eastern and Southern Africa. They thrive in warm, dry regions such as grasslands, savannas, and semi-arid areas, where they can find ample grasses and vegetation to graze on. Their ability to adapt to different habitats makes them hardy creatures. They prefer environments with a steady supply of food, water, and shelter, and they are not well-suited for humid forested areas.

FARMHOUSE FRIDAY We do allow people to visit us for the day, the same as you would in the National Parks. Booking is essential though, so be sure to contact us before you drive all the way out. Day visits are US8 per adult, children under 12 half price and under 6 are free. Day visitors have access to the Farmhouse property from 8.30am to 5:30pm, We do lock our gate at 6pm so it is important to keep track of your time. Please note we cannot allow day visitors to access to the lodge facilities including the swimming pool for day visitors, however there is a splash pool at the campsite. We ask that ALL day visitors report to reception to check in and pay before entering the property. Day visitors must supply their own food and drink. The restaurant at the lodge is for accommodated guests only. We have a strict take in-take out policy on rubbish so please bring a rubbish bag to use and take it all home with you. Here we have no means of disposal and have to take all our rubbish to town for recycling already, we don't need to take yours too. Please respect the animals and do not approach them, feed them or attempt to touch any of the wildlife at Farmhouse. Day visitors may book a braai site and wood at the campsite for an additional US5 or you can just have a picnic. You should be here early enough to have your braai without leaving the fire unattended afterwards.

THOUGHT PROVOKING THURSDAY All generalizations are dangerous, even this one. - Alexandre Dumas What's your take on this quote

WEDNESDAY WALK ABOUT Often when we are on foot, we notice more of natures wonders than we would have if we were driving around. And they are out again! "Babiana bainesii" (Baboon root) Babiana bainesii is a species of flowering plant in the family Iridaceae, native to parts of southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa. It is known for its striking violet to purple blooms that typically appear in spring to early summer. Leaves are Narrow, sword-shaped, and often hairy or ribbed. The Flowers are tubular with flaring petals, usually in shades of purple or violet. Often found in grasslands, rocky slopes, or open woodland areas. Growth habit: Low-growing perennial that emerges from a corm.