The best birthday I’ve had to date started with the surprise that I’d be going on my first helicopter ride over the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Thanks so much to my mom for organizing it all the way from the States, and to Mike for sneakily helping to coordinate the details! 

We arrived at the small private airport and heard soft yet cheerful tinkering tones. When the musician asked if I wanted to try, of course I did - I was already stoked on life because I was about to ride in a helicopter!

We started flying and Mike and I looked down in awe as we circled the Falls, then travelled up river spotting elephants and hippos in the water, before plunging 800 feet down into the gorge and flying along with the water’s twists and turns. I couldn't stop smiling. It was a truly amazing, unforgettable experience. 

I think I’ll stick to helicopters as my main mode of transportation from now on. ;)