Grandma and the Lions

In December Susan's mom was able to come across "the Pond" and spend three weeks with us. Early on we took her to the Lion Park near us and treated her to what would be a very memorable visit. It all started out well enough as we were able to go into the enclosure and play with some lion cubs. Now they are a full of energy late in the afternoon and will amuse you to no end with their theatrics. Every once in a while you'll be reminded of their strength, even at this age, as well as being confronted with the potential for disaster. In this picture you can see the retractable claws come out, which are incredibly sharp.

If you're wondering about these white lions, we are blessed here in South Africa to have this color mutation of the Kruger subspecies of lions--which means we have the white lions here in South Africa. As you can see they are beautiful!

From the lion cub enclosure we took mom to feed the giraffe. As you can imagine it is quite an undertaking both for the giraffe as well as for me. They have incredibly long purple tongues that slobber all over you. In the background you can see the stairs to the stand where it is not so difficult to feed. Here's mom enjoying the petting while the giraffe enjoys the food.

From there we took mom to the big lion enclosures and we never get tired of seeing these stunning animals. Often you'll see whole families together.

Sometimes you'll see a couple together.

Sometimes you'll get one by himself.

And it brings an adrenline rush to you as you get "up-close and personal" with one of the big males. Its not so bad when his eyes are closed.

But when he opens his mouth that will get you very thankful for a car with the motor running and the windows closed.

But every so often you get to experience something unique. About a year ago we encountered a group of teenage lions who attacked the car and tore the crome off the bumper of the car, but this time we met a playful, full-grown male who wanted to have some fun. We entered the second enclosure and were surprised to see that there were no lions near the entrance as is normal. We continued on and came up to a van where the driver was pointing to the other side of his van. Susan had her window down and the camera ready. As the van moved we were completed surprised to see a big lion coming right for us.

I quickly drove off as Susan closed her window, but it was too late as we felt and heard this big bang as he hit the back of our vehicle. I raced off to a spot to stop and get myself together. My legs were shaking and the adrenline was pumping. We went around a circle and returned to view him but from a distance off. It was amazing to watch as he crouched down under a tree and waited for the next victim and sure enough as the unsuspecting car came around the bend he pounced. We just sat in amazement and watched as he continued to do this. Here's a picture of him coming at a car.

And then before they know it he attacks.

We caught up with the family in this car afterwards to show them the picture as well as the video footage. The lady was still shaking and crying. But not mom--she wanted to go around and get attacked again. Oh, my poor car.

But we thank the Lord for the amazing lion that He has created and we look forward to the Millennial Kingdom when the lion will lie down with the calf in peace and a little child will lead them (Is. 11:6) and the Lion of Judah will reign on the throne forever (Rev. 5:5).