In the Thick of It -- by Tina Thao

 Thump, thump, thump. My heart beated faster and faster each time our truck crossed into the oncoming traffic lane to pass slower cars or when cars crossed into our lane, barely making it back into theirs, avoiding a head on collision. The driving here felt like the game of frogger and I was so thankful for Eki- our guide and driver. The driving in Tanzania is on another level and as a self proclaimed bad driver, I sighed in relief that I would never have to drive in Tanzania because I would not make it far.

The hour drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park passed by with a blink of an eye as each inch of area we saw was new to us. My eyes widened in awe and curiosity as we passed Maasai homes, the large termite hills, a military base, communities, child workers corralling cattle and goats, and the vast beauty of the land.

As we pulled up to Tarangire National Park, I felt the tingle of excitement come over me. There was already so much to see- the colorful birds flocking around, animal skulls lining the pathway, and the hill of animal remains.  

Within minutes of passing through the safari gates, we came across a group of elephants. They were so majestic, beautiful, and slowly grazed on morning glories some distance away. However, after a few minutes they ate their way closer to our truck and to our surprise, a baby elephant had been hiding behind one of the bigger elephants. It was sooo small and looked so happy while it ran around. This is how elephants are supposed to live, free.

Eki asked if we thought the elephants were right handed or left and why. We all made failed attempts guessing. Some asked, “Was it which side of the mouth they chewed on? Was it the side of the longer tusk?” Eki explained that at the end of one of their husks was a small circle that showed if they were right or left handed. 

The animal I loved seeing the most were the lions. They reminded me of my kitty Sammi. They looked so peaceful napping on the tree with no care in the world to what was around, even us. I could’ve watched them for hours. 

We traversed through the vast safari for hours. I hung my head out the top of the truck, closed my eyes and breathed in the fresh air - hints of mint and hibiscus flowers filled my body. I was like a dog with their head out the window. Everyone’s laughter consumed the air. This was pure bliss. I was living my best life, nothing compared to this feeling.