Working with the elephants in the Land of Smiles - Thailand Summer Program

This week our hosts were the rescued elephants, dogs, and cats of the
Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. After the caving escapade, we thought
we would have a relaxing break, enjoy the gorgeous mountains, and laze
around with the elephants. Although we did have those moments, hard work
was not sparse! To start the adventure we cut and hauled corn stalks for a
solid four hours. The truck load of what we gathered would only serve as a
snack for the thirty-five elephants!

The most memorable and fun chore was working in the elephant kitchen.
Chopping up fruit with machetes, tossing watermelons out of truck beds, and
mashing bananas with our bare hands to the beat of Rihanna extracted the
most laughs. With a new chore each day, we came to realize quickly how
much care and upkeep these gentle giants need. We all really felt like our
time and effort here was highly valued.

Aside from getting the opportunity to spend time with such elegant
creatures, this second week together provided the chance for our group to
really bond. Along with the necessary teamwork incorporated into our daily
park tasks, our down time was spent filled with talk and laughter. With
the basics of getting to know each other out of the way in the first week,
we found ourselves sharing embarrassing stories, forming inside jokes, and
supporting each other with ease.

The complete atmosphere of the Elephant Nature Park proved to be all
worthwhile. With new knowledge of elephants under our belts, (which we can
*definitely* use back home), strong group bonding, and the overall cheery
disposition of Thailand rubbing off on us, we are all eager to continue our
journey in the Land of Smiles.

- Sam Bavelock

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