Sunday, September 11, 2016

Elephantstay, Thailand

Prior to heading home for our annual summer break, at the end of June we decided to do a three day excursion to Elephantstay in Ayuttaya, Thailand.  Elephantstay is a hands on experience and a way to make a real difference in the lives of elephants.  We stayed in a working elephant village dedicated to conserving elephants.  The program involved living with, caring for and learning about elephants.  Our family was assigned two elephants.  Brady and I cared for "Rumruay", Natalie and Cooper cared for "Jumpee".  These elephants were relying on us to take care of them and show them love...  Elphantstay staff showed us how to do just that...  We learned all the basic of being a Mahout, riding, feeding, watering and even bathing the elephants in the river.  We quickly formed a bond with each of our elehants, learning about their unique personalities!  Beyond helping with the elephants during our stay, the money we paid goes directly back into conservation.

A busy schedule each day!


Our accommodations...



Introducing Jumpee...


Introducing Rumruay....


Food has arrived....


Time to feed and eat...






Clean up...





Before....


After...  All clean!


Bath time...









Off for a stroll...



Off to the river for a swim...






Learning how to command the elephants...


Time to wash the babies...



Time to say goodbye :( 



A boy and his new best friend...