Memory Filing.

Some moments will stay with you for the rest of your life. Both good and bad will haunt your visual memory, words will evoke a scene, a certain smell will take you back to someone or something, it's inevitable.

I had several of these unforgettable moments whilst I was away in Zambia. I went alone and for me that was probably one of the best decisions I ever made. I was put in that position, despite being shy, that I just had to go out and do things, organise my own trips, occupy myself and I felt good doing it. Albeit there are some times you wish you had someone there to share a special moment with, but overall it was great. If I travelled alone, I normally made friends when I got to where I was going with greater ease, rather than retreating to what I knew.

I have a file in my head of these moments, specifically for Zambia..... it's a special place! They go in order of level of mind blown and happiness factor be that hanging from the falls, a sight, nuzzling up to an animal or a mind bending conversation with someone. With a lot I can remember the sights, the sounds, the smells and even the words used at the time. It's like my own personal time capsule that I can step into whenever I choose.

One most awesome day was the day I got to visit the lion and cheetah sanctuary in Livingstone. I was breathless from the very start, no fear just such an utter state of peace. Such a rare moment I am only able to count on one hand for people and experiences who have brought me anywhere near to this feeling. These animals are so awesome and it was such a privilege to even be in their company, never mind face to face.  

The area is rife with poachers and the day before I arrived, one of the largest elephants in the area was sadly taken down. The ivory was retrieved however the culprits were not found. It's a sad state of affairs to be in, but in that sense the sanctuary does an amazing job at protecting animals and keeping their numbers going in the right direction. Many will serve as ambassadors for their species  as they have circumstances which prevent them from being released, educating people of their importance to the ecosystem. However there are many more who will make it back to the wild and lead a happy and healthy life. I'd love to part of the hands on protection process everyday, it's so important to preserve what we have on this beautiful earth, but while I can't be there I will do what I can from here.

So here I am face to face with Suzy (I think)!

Some Kind of Wonderful. 
Graphite pencil (various grades) on paper.