Connection, Community - Chiang Mai

So yesterday I finished 5 weeks of studying at The Old Medicine Hospital here in Chiang Mai.  I learned a ton, met some wonderful people and now have a new skill to practice and share with others.
Since we set off on this journey 8 weeks ago, I was looking forward to arriving in Chiang Mai the most.  I was excited to settle into our apartment, go to school and spend enough time in one place that would allow us to get to know the city, locals and to be able to build relationships.  With this time we have been able to do that.  We have our favorite restaurants that we go to all the time, we know the dudes at the gym, I know my teachers.
This allows for that feeling of community.  Support for locals.  Getting to know the locals and more about the culture here.  Leaving Penticton was kinda tough this time as I feel a real connection to the community there and feel that I am actually a part of it.  What a wonderful thing!
Maybe I'm getting old, but I am more fond of staying in a place for a longer period of time and getting a real feel for it, rather than checking in for a few nights and checking out.
I want to feel and experience the community and how each one differs.  I want to make connections with people.  Locals, travelers, whoever.

In 3 days we will leave this little community we've come to know and move on to another.  I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here in Chiang Mai and would recommend it to anyone who is planning a visit to Thailand.

Thank you for the connections and for your welcoming community Chiang Mai.

 Final week of class.  Oil massage group.

 Great instructors.  Fine, Ya-Ya, Magi, Nanny and Pad Thai.  The funniest Thai I've ever met.

Disorganized group photo.  :)