Lazarow World-Hike-About

The Drakensberg is a range of mountains that stretches an awfully long distance, passing through much of South Africa and the neighboring state of Lesotho. However, it's far more than mountains; rather, it's a culture. It has a strong influence over the people living below it and on its magnificent, stretching length. It's covered with unusually shaped edifices, many protruding above the mountain base. Animals and birds abound, flora is magnificent and the people provide an interesting perspective themselves. They are clearly influenced by the environment and fiercely protective of their lifestyles. At times, one feels, but for the internet and Coca Cola, (perhaps a few additional luxuries, too), one could be living in the 19th century. Not quite sure what life was like then from a lack of personal experience, but imagine the horse-riding, golf, other recreation, climbing and hiking, sleeping in mountain caves, neighborly visits to respective farms, observing and being ...

Some days have a particularly good feel to them. This was one of them as we hiked a rather steep mountain over a less than average distance. Once again, we took in terrific sights, negotiated the rocks and scree and acquired height quickly. The vast surroundings, filled with mountain ranges, lakes and forests continue to amaze, entertain and fill us with challenges and joy simultaneously. A heck of way to open the eyes early in the day. After nearly an hour climbing, we reach a crest and determine our ultimate destination. There are a few false peaks and one is clearly visible. Lake Popova comes into view. We had hiked to it the previous week from another direction. Our comments of rock surfaces are probably justified after viewing this photograph. Ditto. A view from the peak: Mounts Vihren and Kutelo in the distance. First sighting as we reach the top. Last sighting as we return to base. Similar photographs shown before. The setting ...

'Nothing's quite as pretty as Mary in the morning.' Talking of Mary/s... As we reach our third continent in two weeks, we are still enjoying the thrill of having visited Eastern Europe again, particularly, the fascinating mountain ranges, myriad alpine lakes and an assortment of other features. It was not easy to leave the European continent which continues to inspire us with it’s variety of natural beauty. Nevertheless, it’s never difficult to return to Africa, especially where our roots are buried and many fond memories, particularly of the formative years, continue to influence and have an impact on our lives. We are most fortunate, at least thus far, that each part of the world provides unique opportunities to experience the mystery and joy of both the natural wonders and, people and their cultures. May we all live in peace! (Nice thought but unfortunately, unrealistic.) Even in seemingly miserable weather, nature provides an upside. Rugged, colorful...

Looking back at the cabana and trailhead after the initial hour or so. Heeerrre's Minnie. What was she thinking when making the purchase. It was a stunning position...probably still is. A number of years ago we learned a concept which we considered nothing short of brilliant. Of course, much depends on the perspective of the beholder and so our perception may differ from that of others. With the proviso in mind, the concept deals with so much of life including, not surprisingly, the challenging hikes we undertake from time-to-time, especially when condensed over short and intensive periods, usually quite tough and challenging. It sounds like we are setting up for a comparison with say an Everest assault, to make a bold assertion, but we would not be that arrogant. On the contrary, the concept is that we each have our own 'Everests'. What do we mean by that? We are born with specific talents and attributes. However, it is clear that there are numerous people...