I am so thankful that the trip to Chitwa Chitwa Lodge didn’t work out. By going instead to Khaya Ndlovu Manor House and Umlani Bush Camp, I’ve realized how much more naturally this fits into the Leopard story. Khaya Ndlovu has an orphanage facility with an intensive care unit I don’t know if they care just for rhinos or other wildlife as well. I can’t help but wonder: is that why the second book revealed itself to me? Was it waiting for me to have the chance to experience an actual rehab center, to see conservation and renewal in action?  

What began as a simple story about generational habits—an overthinking grandmother, a bonding trip between grandmother and granddaughter, a thread of conservation—has evolved into something deeper. My thoughts circle around hereditary beliefs, the way traits pass silently from mother to mother to mother.

A woman is born with all her ovaries, which means I was once inside my mother while she was inside her mother. That layering of existence fascinates me. Is that how these traits are passed down? What of me belonged to my grandmother? To her grandmother? And to hers before that? Then I feel a sadness for men, who don’t carry that same living connection. Their bodies create sperm throughout life, unlinked to what came before. They are free in that sense but also disconnected.

One thing I know my grandmother gave me is her tendency to over-plan (see: my last blog). For instance, the bush camp list suggests a headlamp. That’s all I need to bring. I don’t have to pack a backup flashlight and lantern “just in case.” The lesson: follow the list, not the compulsion to bring everything.

As I prepare, I feel as though my own journey is converging with that of Joan, Mira, and Naledi. I hope to experience many of the same wonders they will, woven into their stories. And then—oh!—I saw there’s a four-bedroom house for sale on the Khaya Ndlovu reserve. Not for me personally, but for Mira? Absolutely. See how it all falls together?

This trip feels bigger than me. Bigger than the story. My heart is full of anticipation and wonder—two emotions I haven’t felt in years.

Buckle up, Barb. It’s going to be a ride to enjoy.

Image credit: https://khayandlovu.co.za/the-miracle-of-masingita/