May 20th...Giving it a go...

It was raining heavily when I woke up this morning. I didn't know if anyone would show up to work on the Stupa or not, but as always, I went. You never know. Norbu was there already, having gotten some rest last night. We did the best we could, creating a shelter for the pot and sand, persevering through the pain of moist sand all over wet hands (it cuts), and gave it a go. After about an hour it became clear it wasn't working. We did get some paint off, but the sand kept getting wetter despite our best efforts to keep it dry, and the pot was wet inside (when the temperature drops this happens we found, we tried to blow it out before using it, but couldn't clear all the moisture). So we decided to wrap up and take the rest of the day to get some rest and get caught up on things we've been putting aside. Some things. There are more than can be addressed in an afternoon... : )

KT ordered another pallet of sand, which should be enough to finish everything! That's a big deal, one huge obstacle removed. The next thing is going to be getting some folks out over the weekend to work. I work at the hospital all weekend, so I can't be out there. Norbu has mornings, but then he works too. We'll see. We don't have a lot left to do actually, we just need one or two good days...no rain, no equipment malfunctions, and enough manpower to get the job done...

Ani Sherab Khandro will be back to the temple on Sunday to work with Lisa on the molds and some reliefs from Migyur Dorje (we are trying our best to utilize Ani Sherab's extensive knowledge and experience in the most beneficial way during her short visit). I'm hoping I can get Lisa to use the camera, but we'll see. She's trying to learn from Ani Sherab, so taking pictures may not be high on her list of priorities. : )

Monday, Saga Dawa, we'll be out there by the Stupa with some repair material, waiting to help anyone who wants to take advantage of the opportunity to repair a Stupa on a 10 Million Day! No matter who you are, bring your friends, we'll give you the trowel, the repair material, and the crack to fill, all you have to do is show up! We hope to get as many people involved as possible, so we'll make it as easy as we can! So if you can come out, please do come. If not, I'll post photos here, so you can all share in this tremendous opportunity!