I went to the Bannerghatta National Park yesterday. There were lions and tigers and bears, oh my! (sorry couldn’t resist). There were also elephants. I absolutely love elephants, so that was definitely the highlight of my trip. I went with three other volunteers. We navigated the buses and managed not to get too lost. The national park was pretty cool. There was a safari, and a zoo, and a butterfly garden. I have to admit that the constant staring is kind of getting to me. I felt like I was the main attraction. There were rare animals roaming within a few feet, but people preferred to look at me. Most of the time I can ignore it, but yesterday it really got to me. I was glad to return to the shelter and see the kids.

I only have one week left and the thought of leaving makes me tear up. I wish I could bring everyone home with me, especially Malika. She us only 8 and hugs me constantly. This week she fell and badly hurt her eye–it was swollen shut. I went with her and some of the older girls to the hospital and I have been taking care of her for the last three days. I worry that the other girls won’t wash their hands thoroughly enough so I take care of applying the ointment, despite blood making me nauseous. I just adore her. She is one of those people you meet in life and never forget.

I have also really bonded with one of the boys at the shelter, Raju. He is only 6 and speaks very little english, but he loves to yell “Madi” from across the room. I play with him (which mostly involves me running in circles and flying him around like superman) and try to work on his English. He mostly just repeats everything I say. I’m not sure how successful I am, but he sure is cute!

The attached picture is Raju asleep on my lap, apparently the book i choose was not up to par!