Monday was designated as tourist day. That was a change from the original schedule but that happens often as we have already discovered. Each morning starts out with a short devotional and directions for the day.
I have now experienced an elephant ride! Most of the group chose to take advantage of this experience before the elephant show. The ride was in a special seat on the elephant's back. The trainer rode the front and talked to the elephant and guided him. We climbed a muddy hill, rode through the trees, close to the water, through the village. The elephants take riders from ages 15 to age 60 and they live to be around 80 years old. Seems similar to humans. We watched the elephants play soccer, dance, and paint. Their trainers put the paint on the brush and gave it to them to hold with their trunks and they painted very nice trees and flowers at our show.
Next was the snake show. I guess we were watching a brave snake handler, but I kept wondering why anyone would take such risks. The ring master was a real trip. The kids did enjoy it for the most part, only one sat at the top row looking the opposite direction.
The orchid farm was amazing seeing all of the orchids growing and looking at the jewelry that has been with the real tiny orchids. We've eaten Asian food every meal and our lunch was very good at the orchid farm.
A trip to a hill tribe village was a great visual for understanding where the kids come from that are at the orphanages. When we arrived the ladies and babies spread out their handmade items for us to buy. Not many people come to their village so they are excited to sell things to get money for food. It was a long, hot ride up to this village but everyone appreciated the opportunity to see it and interact with the people there.
Our evening included dinner at a beautiful cultural center with music and dances that were native to Thailand and to the hill tribes. The adventure concluded with fire balloons being launched outside.
Full day, many tired kids and adults, and a grasp of some of the Thai culture that will help us during the week.
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4 comments:
Dear Nana:
Wow! An elephant ride! Can't wait to see pictures of that.
Jonah wants to know if you have been fishing. (??) And would also like to know if you have eaten any fish.
The orchid garden sounds neat, also. Were all the orchids purple or various colors?
We are headed to the Presley's farm today for a picnic with cousin Kayla. We are excited to meet her for the first time. It is in the 70s here today and we have a wonderful breeze. Daddy is keeping up with the watering and the lawn looks greener each day. We love you.
Jonah and Coral
You rode an elephant! So cool!!! :-)
How neat! Wow, an elephant!!! =) Sounds like you've had quite the cultural experiences! Praying for your trip.
Kelly
You will now be able to win when you play 'get to know you' games about your most unusual experience!
You are in my prayers! Give a hug to Emily B. for me!!
Robin
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