OUT WITH A BANG

We learned something last week - if you want alot of folks at your funeral, the promise of fireworks and a 30-foot tall funeral pyre in the shape of a winged-elephant can't hurt your chances.  It also helps to be the venerated, head monk of Chiang Mai - who spent over 70 years in robes.   

 Seeking spiritual spectacle, and expecting crowds (and limited parking), the public transit-lovers pictured above hopped a songtaew - the red pickups whose two benches in a covered cab gives its name - and zipped down Suthep Road to Wat Suan Dok.

 On the wat grounds we found this curious creature, along with a general buzz of expectation.  A full percussion ensemble and host of chanting monks helped gird the winged elephant - apparently, the only bird that can fly to heaven - for its sacred duty.

As night fell, a troupe of dancing angels (seen in prep above) took center stage, much to Eamonn's delight.  Eam was less keen on the noisy fireworks, and he and dad retreated to a quieter remove.  Mom and Ren stayed close enough to feel the glow of the funeral pyre, and both noted the wind that swept through just after the presiding monk finished prayers to send the spirit off. 

There were a gaggle of photographers and videographers in attendance, so quick youtube search yielded this video.  Yes, that is an angel flying down from nearby tree to set alight the monks name in fireworks - now that's how you start a funeral ;)