From viewing wild animals in their natural habitat, to helping create habitat for her fellow humans, Amy Atteberry's sabbatical in August 2010 was the trip of a lifetime.
Joined by her recent MBA graduate husband, the project management consultant's journey started in Johannesburg, South Africa, followed by a four-day safari in world-renowned Kruger National Park.
There they was able to view elephant, rhinos, lions, and Cape Buffalo, just missing out on the last of the Big Five. "We didn't see a leopard, but we did see a leopard paw print," Amy said.
Next the couple bussed to Mozambique to meet up with Habitat for Humanity volunteers to build housing for residents of Xai Xai (Shy Shy), a small coastal town.
Over two weeks, the crew, assisted by a local builder, constructed five simple but sturdy two-room houses, with no electricity or running water. "They spend all of their time outside there, so it was really just a place to sleep," Amy said.
When asked what was the main thing she got out of the experience, Amy mentioned an appreciation for her life at home, and perhaps a bit of perspective. "The people were in great spirits, even though they didn't have a lot of the things we have. Some things we don't necessarily need to be happy," she observed.
