I woke at six–just as the morning light was creeping over the granite hilltop—feeling refreshed and happy as a clam! I went to sleep under a bed of stars and woke to birds singing and a fabulous sunrise — simply heaven. I feel like myself again — I just needed to get out of the city!
Derrick greeted me with a downward down stretch followed by his mellow tail wag. We hiked up the hill to see if I could get cell reception, but no luck. Actually, what I really wanted to do was some exploring. Derrick had the same idea and led the way. The granite rock formations on these hilltops are inspiring.
Back at the house, Derrick went into a barking frenzy. I heard rustling in the nearby underbrush and expected to see a deer or two. Instead, I caught a glimpse of three wild pigs– two adults and a piglet — scampering in the opposite direction. I was excited — my first wildlife sighting!
Mahadeva, a local tribesman, is helping me get comfortable with the area. We spent all morning hiking the property. It really is spectacular. One feature that the elephants will appreciate is the diversity of the land, from pastures to rocky hillsides, forest and, of course, a beautiful lake. I saw that one of the creeks feeds fresh water into the lake. Partially spring fed — just another plus.
This land is elephant country. At one time all the land around here belonged to wild elephants. I have been thinking hard about this reality.
Late this afternoon I decide to set out on another hike, this time to see if I could find a cell phone signal. I was gifted a pin drive which, if in range, will give me wireless internet service for my computer. I was determined to locate a signal.
Vishnu says he gets reception in front of his house but I did not, so I hiked further. I finally did get a signal and wouldn’t you guess it was smack dab in the middle of elephant country on the shore of the lake. I had to laugh out loud. What a fabulous place to set up my mobile office. I plopped myself down on a granite bench and was able to send and receive emails while watching a variety of birds fishing on the lake.
This care center is going to be more than I even envisioned. It is heaven and the elephants will love it. I am so happy to be back, to make dream real.
