April 30th...Another rainy day!

It may have rained today, but we had a great turn out! Pete came out after getting an email from me (I sent some out this morning to let everyone know I was willing to work in the rain if they were...), Philip responded as well. Lisa and Ashly came hoping to build the platform, but were glad to work on sandblasting.

We cleared paint around the top edge of the throne, so when a lip is added to the platform (to prevent it from shifting with wind or weight) we don't prevent ourselves from being able to clear the paint. Pete had been out on Wednesday with Norbu, and was eager to get back to the sandblasting. Philip, Lisa and Ashly all had a chance to learn to work the sandpot. It is a critical part of the process, as it regulates the flow to the hose. Too much and sand is wasted, and the concrete pitted, too little, and nothing happens. We all got the technique down before long, so we could take turns working. Really cool. No one had to get worn out (though I'm not sure there won't be some sore muscles tomorrow...)

Inside there was activity at the temple today as well, Ann and Gretchen did a great job vacuuming and cleaning the entrance to the temple. I hope we didn't mess up their work too much when we left (after sandblasting work, you shed black sand for quite a while).

This week will be different. Monday we hope David Parker will join us again to finish the platform. Then we need to get done what we can before Khenpo Norgye comes. Khenpo is going to give us teachings and empowerments next weekend. If you're interested follow the link to KPC Maryland's website on this page for more information on what he's going to give.

As always, I'll end by inviting you to come join us. Come watch, come walk the land and see the Stupas in person (my Mom said she had no idea how big they are), or take some time out in the prayer room. All of it is open to anyone, no strings attached. The Stupa we're working on right now is easy to find, right off the parking lot. You can see it anytime, day or night. Even with tarps and platforms all around it, it still bestows endless blessings to any creature that encounters it. So please do stop by if you can. Otherwise, check us out here. We're keeping this blog to share it all with you!

It is my hope you will be inspired by what you see here. These are ordinary people, folks you could pass on the street and never think twice about them. Yet, they work diligently through rain, wind, sand, stinky paint chemicals, and precarious ropes and harness work, giving up days off and weekends, all to restore Stupas! They go through all this because they know the Stupas bring blessings and healing, peace and prosperity, to every being that encounters them. So please do come out, or check in here regularly, the blessings are immeasurable. If you want to give working on the Stupas a try we'll help you get the hang of it, if you'd rather watch, we'll try to entertain you. If you'd rather avoid us all together, there are plenty of Stupas in the Peace Park across the street, where you won't have to deal with us at all. : )