Historical Bangkok

Today Dr. Kennan, Meg, Nikki, Melissa and I took a river ferry to the Grand Palace. It was really amazing. The Grand Palace was originally built for King Rama I in 1782. While there we also got to see Wat Pho, which is the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand. Meg took video of this and I’ll have to show this to all of you when we get back. It was this huge golden statue of Buddha laying down and it literally took up and entire building! I couldn’t believe how big this statue was! It was really awesome though. We also were blessed by a Buddhist monk. He blessed us with holy water and also gave us a bracelet, but I’m not sure what it symbolizes. On a side note about bracelets. I’ve noticed that in Thailand there are a lot of people wearing orange bracelets very similar to my Team United bracelet. However, I had my doubts that an entire Asian country likes Frank Beamer and the Hokies as much as I do! Regardless, yesterday on the sky tram I noticed theirs said, “Long Live the King.” Thus they’re clearly supporting their King rather than Frank and the United Way! I also then wondered if they would be offended if they knew mine said “Beamerball” and not what theirs said. So if I’m missing my left hand when I come home, you’ll all know that it was removed due to my love for Frank and the Hokies! It’s been a great day so far and we’re about to head to dinner. Until next time…cheers…