so bullet points for a summary--
1). Global entry is worth its weight in gold if time is valuable.
2). Direct flights from ATL to JNB are long no matter what you do--
3). Taking your family on safari is costly but priceless.
4). practice shooting until you have shot enough--and then shoot some more...
5). take plenty of pictures
6). don't overpack
7). find a PH you trust, then listen to them--they are the experts--you are the guests.
8). smell the trees, feel the sand, stare at the stars, be mesmerized by all that is Africa.
9). Squeeze the life out of every minute.
10). Shoot enough gun with enough bullet to get the job done.
11).Watching your children harvest game with accurate shots and easy game location after the shot means the practice was worthwhile.
12). Tienie and Ananja Bamberger of Warthog Safaris treated us like royalty and their operations/farm/camp are great--the food was fantastic, the gathering around the fire every evening was a great time to reflect, the camp was comfortable, the game was plentiful, the trackers and skinners did a phenomenal job, and again, I can't give them enough praise for caring for my family. The greatest compliment is that they treat us like family!
13). If at all possible, give back to the community around you--whether in the States or abroad--we do not know who or how we will impact others with a kind word, a simple gesture, a cup of cold water...
14). The scratches on my legs will heal from wearing shorts--the memories of how I got them hopefully will last a long time!
15). 300 grain Swift A frames do the job from the 375, and 117 grain interlock Hornady's did just fine with the 25.06. ( and did I already say I was glad we practiced?)
16). Predator hunting is addictive...
17). Take what the bush gives you...
18). Watch and remember as many sunrises and sunsets as God gives you...
19). take your family with you as often as you can...
20). On the return flight, go ahead and begin planning your return trip...