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The Thai culinary dashboard.
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We were very privileged to also attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a replica of the Bodhigaya stupa commemorating Buddha's enlightenment.
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Maha Charo, Wat Chong Kam's deputy abbot, pays respect to Thailand's second highest monk
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Looking for the best perch to watch the proceedings.
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A ring of Buddha statues surround the groundbreaking site.
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After chanting prayers, the second king monk is helped back up from the crater by disciples.
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Where's Wally?
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As part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the stupa, disciples donated personal belongings to be buried in a time capsule.
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Coins, Buddha images, business cards, jewelry - anything that's a part of you.
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Signed, sealed, delivered.
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This woman put in a glass ball and her faith was palpable - her happiness at bearing witness to this ceremony was pure.
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Sangha media.
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My mom presented Wat Chong Kam with this Buddha she brought from Nepal.
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We interrupt our regular programming to check on the pig's trotters.
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More poking around in the makeshift stall kitchens.
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Who needs deep thoughts when you can have deep fry?
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An hour north in the lakeside town of Pha Yao, a stroll through the Saturday night "walking street" for dessert after a dinner of barbequed catfish, chicken and pork belly.
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If you know me, you will know that these crispy pancakes filled with shredded coconut nestled in coconut cream are my favorite Thai dessert of all.
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More evidence that there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating insects.
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Back at Wat Chong Kam the next day and good morning!
