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Elephants in Thailand

This news story caught my eye about a baby elephant that fell into a manhole and drainage ditch in eastern Thailand. The young elephant looked on pleadingly while rescuers worked for three hours to free it.

Eventually a bulldozer was employed to widen the hole and allow the elephant to escape. The young pachyderm emerged physically unharmed.

The elephant had fallen into the hole after its trainer had taken it out to work on the street in Rayong province.

Elephants are a common sight in many Thai towns and cities either performing heavy manual work or being used as a prop by beggars and buskers to solicit money from passers-by.

Baby elephants are especially favored and usually perform a repertoire of tricks. Concerns over cruelty have led to the banning of elephant displays in many areas of Thailand.

Elephant Nature Foundation is a non-profit organization which advocates and acts on behalf of the rights of Asian elephants in Thailand.

Their mission is to increase awareness about the plight of the endangered Asian elephant, educate locals on the humane treatment of their elephants, and provide sanctuary for rescued elephants at a nature park.

Elephant Nature Park, provides a safe home to rescued elephants who were previously abused and neglected. Perfect for day trips, overnight visits, and long-term volunteer opportunities, Elephant Nature Park offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

The Elephant Nature Foundation is doing amazing work in Thailand on behalf of these animals. This made me think about the animal right’s organizations here in my town. We have many dog and cat groups, but we also have the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary and Saddle Up Horse Academy.

Who is in your community? Let’s call one and find out how we can help them. It may be in volunteering some hours or providing food or other supplies. Animals add so much to our lives, let’s give a little back. Joy

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Moroccan Dance and Music

Everywhere you go around the world, music reflects the heartbeat of the culture.  I enjoy watching musical performances because it brings me closer to the spirit of the people.  My playlist of global radio stations includes all types of music from all the continents.

This clip from Morocco shows an Arabic style of music and dance.  Even if I can’t understand the language, I can appreciate the rhythms and movements.    

It is very interesting to me how music blends rhythms from across the globe.  The increase of  international artists “crossing-over” into popular or mainstream music demonstrates how we are changing our musical perspectives.  Lately we’ve had a lot of hispanic influences, I’ll keep listening for an Arabic sound like in this video.

This week in America, our Grammy Music awards will recognize the popular music of 2009.  As I watch the ceremony I will consider how the artists and styles represent American culture.   It’s not only the music, but also the fashions and tributes to legends that makeup this exciting event.

From Country to Rap, the best of the best will be showcased.  The new artist category is probably my favorite because I like finding new bands.  The Grammy’s are favorite awards show – let me know which artists are your favorites!   Joy

What About Living Globally?

Since I started this blog last summer, I have been doing some serious thinking about moving abroad.  I have always loved to travel and the more I think about it, the better the idea seems.

My parents went Expat 7 years ago, so the idea isn’t new in my family.  They live in Boquete, Panama and love it.  My mom started the Boquete Gourmet website which is an “Elevated Connoiseur’s Perspective of Panama”.  They have a wonderful life in a beautiful community which my mom is sharing in the blogosphere.

My parents are very social and often meet travelers in Boquete. In the past month, two different couples crossed their path and they both had a unique twist to their journey. Both couples (mid 30s) are internet entrepreneurs and are traveling around the world.  I suddenly became insanely jealous when I mom was telling me their stories. The first one picqued my interest, the second one made me think I could do it too.

Hey, why don’t I do that?  What’s stopping me?

It’s a lifestyle that many people consider CRAZY!!  “Why would you want to leave America?” asked my friends when I mentioned it to them.  It’s not so much that I want to leave America, it’s more about going out into the world, exploring everything around the globe.

Maybe it’s my gypsy spirit, but I can’t stop thinking about this idea.  I am traveling to Panama for the holidays and have to do more research into this idea.  My list of questions is lengthy, but I’ll find the answers. If you’re in Panama, we’re having a party in Bocas del Toro for New Year’s – let me know if you can attend.

If you are an Expat – will you please tell me what made you decide to do live abroad?  I’d love to hear your stories!  All the best, Joy

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