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Early on Monday 1st of February we set off in the Dhammaram van to Siamsaamitri School for another Pa Pah, this one organised by Khun Pleun. The first event was going pindapat with our bowls to receive offerings from each and every one of the students. There was a long, winding line of fresh-faced, cute kids aged from five to twelve each with a basket filled with offerings. Some of the older boys followed behind us to take care of the generous excess. We then took the elevator to the fourth floor and were led into a large, well lit hall where half the space was filled with students and the other half with teachers and parents. A few more offerings were made and then we had our meal. While eating I could see the photo-books being passed around. Given the circumstances I couldn't see how Tisarana could be better put into context. Khun Pleun and the school principal then guided us through a series of ceremonies mostly led by Luang Por Sumedho. All flowed very graciously. The students were exemplary in their composed behaviour. After the Pa Pah it was back to Dhammaram where I took my leave from Ajahn Sumedho and readied myself for an evening flight travelling with Ajahn Hassapanyo to Ubon in the North-East where I planned to stay at Wat Pa Nananchat for a week. The trip was uneventful and we were met at the airport and taken directly to the monastery. The next day it was up early for morning chanting and meditation starting at 3.30 – a challenging time at any time. This takes until roughly 5.30 when everyone gets ready for alms round, heading out just after 6 – dawn. The route I went on was relatively short but I was delighted to see how many people were out on the street at that time of the day ready to offer alms. A highlight of the day. Day two I went with Ajahn Kevali to visit Luang Por Liem the abbot of Wat pah Pong. He was very generous with his time and I had a very pleasant and fruitful meeting with him. I met him again not long after but in the context of samaneras from Nanachat being ordained by him. Another day saw a group of us visiting with Ajahn Anek a very dynamic, artistic monk. A later evening we were attending a festival in memory of Ajahn Sao. Before I knew it the week was up and it was back to Bangkok and on to visit my mother in Brisbane.

The theras' kuti at Wat Pah Nanachat. Ajahn Kusalo roughing it again :) On the way to the Wat Pah Nanachat workshop. Foreground snow especially added for Canadians. Luang Por Liam with Ajahn Kusalo inside the Ajahn Chah memorial stupa at Wat Pah Pong. This iguana came to visit while we were talking with Ajahn Liam. An ordination at Wat Pah Pong. Two new monks and one samanera. The clock is am! A group visting Ajahn Anek (to rear) amidst his tree-root sala. Ajahn Anek's open air dhamma auditorium. A Buddha shrine set up by Ajahn Anek at a local tertiary school. We have crossed the river to attend a nahn (festival) in memory of Ajahn Sao.