Lightning

During one of the crazy lightning storms, I caught this bolt on video. It's the closest I'd ever been to a non-Tesla coil lightning bolt at approximately 100 meters. Look for the little plasma balls left over after the last strike in the ion trail during the latter part of the clip.

Lightning Stills

Frame-by-frame - click for full size

Directions

As I’m preparing to leave Appelsbosch for the ship, I snapped these pics of the “emergency directions” that are pretty pervasive in South Africa. Since my arrival, I’ve felt like I should be shooting blue and orange blobs at the walls. It certainly would be faster transit between Applesbosch and Durban.

Aperture Science

If nobody else, Tom - you should appreciate this.
(And no, sadly there was no portal on the ground.)

Pocket Internet

Today a few of us went in to town (Umhlanga) to the Gateway mall. Just like you’d expect in the US except the “you are here” signs are actually giant touchscreens which give you directions and other info. While I was there, I stopped by the MTN (cell) store and purchased a data bundle for the trusty iPhone. I now feel whole again with the Internet back in my pocket.

Pets

Chameleon

Pets aren't allowed on the ship so all the kids are enjoying the bountiful wildlife here at Appelsbosch. Favorites so far are the chameleon and flying termites. Moths are also popular, but more difficult to catch. They've also managed to capture find a baby gecko, many variety of ants and termites, ticks (not on purpose), and several (they learned the hard way) spiky caterpillars. No snakes so far – something the parents are quite thankful for.

More Pets

Not in the Brochure #38

Everybody gets sick.