A Stupa Success

Guru Yoga

2007-07-28T23:12:00.000-04:00

Hi All,

If you're here you've been pretty patient! We've been on retreat and it's taking time to get the blog up to date...however, I do have something to share tonight!

Here is a video clip of our Spiritual Director here at KPC, talking about the music she's offered to those who are dying (human and non!).

If you want to hear what she's talking about you can click here!

Will post some photos of our retreat (not many, we were really busy there!) and get you all up to speed on the Stupas soon, but for now, please enjoy the blessings offered in this prayer!

Precious Gift

2007-06-18T21:28:00.000-04:00

Quick post tonight...we just put a coat of burgundy paint on the lotus petals around the bumpa! We were able to finish the white this weekend...photos of the players to be posted tomorrow. Tonight, however, I wanted to share something very special with all of you.

In the Buddhist tradition the time of death is considered exceptionally potent, a time where our confusion can be transcended and we can accomplish some level of recognition of our true nature.

For most of us, we haven't encountered the teachings or had the opportunity to practice them in order to utilize this opportunity, and instead often find the time of death to be a frightening one.

It is taught the the Buddha Amitabha made fervent prayers before he attained awakening that when he became a Buddha any being who heard his name or saw his face would be reborn in his pure realm where they would dwell with all the supports for awakening until they too became Buddhas.

Prayers to Amitabha are found in most if not all schools of Buddhism as a result. In our own tradition, Vajrayana, the practice of Phowa exists as a way to prepare for one's death.

Our teacher here in Maryland recently recorded a traditional prayer to Amitabha which she wishes to distribute freely to all beings anywhere completely for free. It can be played for any being who is dying, from insects, to animals to people. It can be listened to by beings prior to the time of death, making that connection with Amitabha Buddha. It brings benefit regardless of one's understanding (the words are Tibetan) and it does not change one's faith (you don't become Buddhist because you heard it, so anyone can benefit from it without worrying they might compromise their own faith). Thus, this prayer has many of the same attributes as a Stupa! It benefits regardless of your species, understanding or faith, it is an expression of unconditional generosity, a prayer for your future happiness whoever or whatever you may be.

To download it for free you can follow the link:

Prayer to Amitabha

You can share it with whoever you wish, play it for your pets, play it wherever beings are dying. We've started to play it as we work on the Stupas so any insects inadvertently killed by our activities can be reborn in the realm of Great Bliss.

Know that this is not an "add", no profits are made from this music, it is a gift for all beings who share the fate of one day having to die.

June 9th, 2007---Slowly, slowly....

2007-06-10T21:42:00.000-04:00

So we've changed gears for a while. Some generous donors sponsored the paint for the Enlightenment Stupa and our coordinating committee asked that we make that a priority...so for now the throne is awaiting our return while we spruce up our most visible Stupa!

Yesterday we were able to make some headway with the helping hands of some of our sangha members! Here Ani Ariana works on one of the more difficult stretches...the large flat face of the steps...no easy way to paint that!

Ani Palmo worked down below...

Micheal Brunk, a faithful Stupa Painter, stopped by to throw on a few brush strokes on his way to working on the temple gift store....

Anne Middleton, head of Lama Services here at KPC (big job!) also stopped by to take advantage of this meritorious opportunity!

Yeshe Thomasch spent quite some time painting yesterday!

While folks worked on the throne of the Stupa Ani Yeshi and I worked at the spire (on the top). Not a job we could coax anyone else into! We were able to complete it today though! So one set of ladders is down at least!

Here's a look at the system we use to get that spire painted...looks worse than it feels though...and we did use rope and harness up there.

We couldn't finish the painting today because of the threat of rain. The potassium silicate paint we're using (which does not require scraping or sanding prior to new applications!) does require 48 hours to cure. Unlike regular latex paints it doesn't cover the concrete, it bonds to it. So we'll be back out next Saturday weather permitting!

Of course, we'll always have an extra brush if you want to participate! Even one stroke produces great karmic benefits! Even if that doesn't tempt you, we hope you'll come and enjoy the fruits of our labor and take a stroll around a Stupa! Their blessings are boundless, and it doesn't matter if you know what they are or not, or if you even care...the Stupas offer their blessings without conditions or restraint!

Virtual Circumambulation

2007-06-01T18:58:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was Saga Dawa, the anniversary of the Buddha's Enlightenment according to the Tibetan Calendar. We're still busily working on the throne but wanted to share this with you...

May all beings benefit from these amazing blessings!

May 15th...Juggling!

2007-05-15T09:47:00.000-04:00

It's a busy time...His Holiness Penor Rinpoche will be arriving in mid-June and we're struggling with awkward working conditions (our backyard when weather permits---our dining room when it's raining!). Not to mention our lack of experience! We are movnig forward however, and wanted to share a few snapshots so you could see the progress...

As you an see it's starting to look like a throne! We're going to be chipping away at it this week and hope to complete the main seat this weekend. Then we'll be carting it over to another sangha member's home so it can be painted! Thus, despite a lack of proper workspace, we're managing to carry on!

You don't have to be a handy type to help, nor do you have to help with these projects in order to enjoy the amazing blessings of the Stupas and temple here in Maryland. All of this is maintained and accessible 24 hours a day for anyone wishing for some peace!

May 5th...Perseverance...

2007-05-05T22:53:00.000-04:00

You may be wondering where we've been! Well, it's been a tough job getting started on the throne. First, we had no place to work...but we do have a small townhouse, so we decided to work in our backyard. Then, we needed tools, again, none to be had, so we consulted with our sangha carpenter types (cabinet makers too) and determined we needed a table saw. Which, mind you, we have no experience with! Assembling such a thing is a challenge all by itself! The directions were truly of minimal benefit, even misleading in places. All we did know is that getting the blade installed correctly not only impacted the quality of our result (we're still worried about that) but our safety...so we struggled through the directions which seemed to have little relationship to the unit we were assembling...but eventually we got it together...

After two full days (we're talking about our precious weekend days!) assembling the tools to even get started, we finally began cutting some wood last weekend. We're still working on cutting, but at least we're actually working on the throne now!

The table saw was truly essential, but it couldn't do it all. So we needed something to do interior cuts, and had to purchase that too. Here we are drilling a hole through which we can thread the blade of the jigsaw to finish cutting out the slot...

This part was easier than we thought it might be. Just a long way coming!

We're still working on the throne base...we've had to re-measure, buy more wood (inaccurate calculations in how it fits together) and then re-cut some pieces, but we're hoping the next chance we get we'll be able to start fitting the base together! Keep us in your prayers, this has been one of our biggest challenges yet!

April 21st...Throne

2007-04-21T12:14:00.000-04:00

Well, it's been a long road and we're just getting started. Your faithful Stupa Anis are not carpenters by any means, but without any handy dudes to help we're heading out today to start cutting some lumbar! Ted, who was involved in building the first throne has provided us with this drawing to give us a guide, and we disassembled the current throne to see how it was built....

This is a view of the base, from the bottom. This is where a lot of the strength seems to come from. We've measured out some boards...we'll see how it goes!

Here are some images that show how the boards fit together...

We took this shot so we wouldn't forget there's going to be a lip on the bottom and top pieces, which will then hold the "box" which will be in between.

If there are any handy folks out there wanting to help with the construction let us know! Otherwise, we'll keep you posted as we muddle our way forward!

April 6th...Preparing the soil...

2007-04-06T19:04:00.000-04:00

With spring now upon us (photo above taken of a tree at the Stupa Park last Saturday) we realized we're running out of time to address the mounds at the Stupa Park. We decided to devote the day to getting it ready for planting this week. We were only able to get four of the eight mounds ready...but here's a glimpse of how we went about it!

The mounds had been completed last year with fill dirt, which has no nutritional value for plants. To plant new flowers or ground cover out there would only result in their failure. Tossing around ideas on a tight budget, we came up with a solution...

We spent the morning at Rabden's alpaca farm collecting alpaca pellets. We were told it is "the cleanest poop you'll ever see" and it was pretty benign. We were fortunate that Rabden had such a rich supply, and was willing to share it with us...

Here we are shoveling the fertilizer into the Stupa truck...

These are the guys that produce the pellets that we're collecting!

Once we got the truck loaded up, the fun wasn't over....we headed to the Stupa Park pull out the old ivy and weeds. That was tough work, but then we got to spread the pellets!

Beth gets a little silly for the camera....

We ended the day by mixing the manure in with the fill dirt to create a slightly more hospitable environment for the future plants. Our muscles let us all know it's been a while since we were out working like this. But, we have four of the eight mounds ready for planting. So go ahead and grab some phlox and head out to make an offering at the Stupa Park that will continue to make offerings to the Stupas for years to come! If you can't make it out, just let us know and we'll plant one for you!

All that you see on these pages is done in the hopes we can inspire you to come visit this amazing place. The temple is open 24 hours a day, it and the many gardens and wooded walks are all here for anyone who is looking for some peace and beauty in this hectic world.

Teens Volunteering and Drumming

2007-04-01T18:47:00.000-04:00

The teen program is looking to make a difference in the community...so they volunteered at the Manna Food Center in Rockville, MD.

The group arrives and is ready to get started!

Ashley grabs the camera and snaps a photo of the photographer, Ani Sonam...

The staff at Manna explain our mission for the next few hours...we were to sort the donated foods into an organized area of shelves and bins. Later the items will be picked up and distributed to those in need.

Kyra and her Dad arrive and join in on the fun.

Sean also jumps in and helps out.

Here is a shot of Kiran sorting the larger items.

Michelle and Ashley working together.

Amar fills a crate in order to move the cans to a different location.

Immediately after our time at Manna, we moved on to the drum circle at the temple. As you can see, Jacob was front and center!

It didn't take long for everyone to find an instrument and join in.

Even little Sophie joined in with her mom Amber's help.

Val investigates to see what Atira is up to.

I would like to end this post with an invitation to join us at the temple for lots of fun and activity. No matter what your interests are, there is a place for you in our community. The prayer room is open 24 hours a day for prayer and meditation. The temple is here for you!

March on the Pentagon

2007-03-17T20:12:00.000-04:00

Today, we participated in the March on the Pentagon. Although it was a cold day, there was a big turnout.

Not everyone was there to oppose the war...as you can see, this crowd supports the war on terror.

Here are some shots of the march to share the experience with you.

Many demonstrators exhibited their patriotism while expressing their distress at the senseless death and suffering of the war. The overall theme of the march was to bring our troops home.

We are working on the video that we shot during the march...stay tuned for the clips to be posted. Monday is a busy day for us...the teens are volunteering at the Manna Food Center and immediately afterward we are having a drumming circle at 7:30 pm at the temple. You are welcome to attend with or without a drum. We would love to see you there!

Stupa Walk

2007-03-10T00:12:00.000-05:00

Yup, finally got some video together. No claims to fame here, just a desire to share the experience! Tempted as I was to add music (illegally since I am not a musician) you'll have to watch it without any real audio quality...but you can get a taste of what it was like that morning!

On the auspicious days of the Tibetan Calendar we always start off with a tour of the Stupas to make offerings and prayers. On this particular day it was cold and icy, so we used our trusty truck to get us around the land...here's a glimpse...

It is our hope that you will come see these amazing sources of blessing for yourself! But if you can't get out here, we'll do our best to bring them to you!

More than one way to practice...

2007-03-05T21:04:00.000-05:00

We're still recovering from the weekend, and will share some video with you over the next few days.

For now, we wanted to share a clip of Atira, one of our younger sangha members, offering basic instruction on hand drums to the teen class (you'll see some Ani's were there---us old nuns still get a kick out of this!) The goal is to get a drum circle going here at the temple! More details as that evolves, but now, grab your drum and see if you can get this....it's less than 30 seconds but it's enough to get you started...

Of course if the whole idea scares you don't fret...the temple and Stupas are open 24 hours a day, available to all, whether you drum or not, whether you're Buddhist or not, you are welcome here!

March 4th....Sharing the Joy

2007-03-04T08:58:00.000-05:00

As stated in previous posts, we've been furiously busy preparing for the events this weekend. Us Stupa gals needed to get cleaned up and focused to perform needed duties indoors. Too busy to shoot images myself, but here's a few Ani Dawa took. These are from Friday, when Mugsang Tulku Rinpoche arrived at our temple in Poolesville...

If you'd like to read more about who this teacher is, here's a link to his biography on the Palyul Website...

Mugsang Tulku Rinpoche

On the run again this morning, but will be sharing some images and video with you soon of the events this weekend!

If you see this in the morning you still have time to come on out and see Rinpoche teach! He's teaching at 11am on Sunday, and we're having a Rigzin Dupai Practice with Tsog this afternoon at 2:30...we'd love to see you there!

Of course, if you can't make it out, we'll share the experience with you here...

The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya

2007-03-03T07:47:00.001-05:00

We're busy hosting Mugsang Tulku, an emanation of Tulku Migyur Dorje, whose relic resides within our own Migyur Dorje Stupa. So no time to prepare a presentation yet...so I wanted to share a video of a Stupa in Colorado...Enjoy!

And of course, please do come out and enjoy the temple and Stupas here in Poolesville if you can! This weekend we have an honored guest, and it is one of the four great auspicious days of the Tibetan Calendar.

If you can't make it, we'll share some glimpses with you here!

Protection for the Mind...

2007-02-20T07:15:00.000-05:00

I realize not all who view this will be Buddhist practitioners, but for those who are, or those who are curious, I wanted to share a quote from Rigpa's Glimpse of the Day (see their site here to sign up for daily quotes yourself if you wish!).

We here at KPC are engaged in prayer 24 hours a day as a temple, and many of us practice daily prayers as well. The prayers we recite often include mantra. Below is one of the most potent quotes I've found on what that accomplishes:

"February 20

A meditation technique used a great deal in Tibetan Buddhism is uniting the mind with the sound of a mantra. The definition of mantra is “that which protects the mind.” That which protects the mind from negativity, or which protects you from your own mind, is mantra.

When you are nervous, disoriented, or emotionally fragile, inspired chanting or reciting of a mantra can change the state of your mind completely, by transforming its energy and atmosphere. How is this possible? Mantra is the essence of sound, the embodiment of the truth in the form of sound. Each syllable is impregnated with spiritual power, condenses a deep spiritual truth, and vibrates with the blessing of the speech of the buddhas. It is also said that the mind rides on the subtle energy of the breath, the prana, which moves through and purifies the subtle channels of the body. So when you chant a mantra, you are charging your breath and energy with the energy of the mantra, and so working directly on your mind and your subtle body."

Rigpa is a Nyingma based group founded by Sogyal Rinpoche, and I believe this quote is from him (we practice a different Nyingma Lineage here---Palyul---so not 100% familiar with Rigpa but love their daily quotes).

The ice storms and snow lead to the cancellation of our weekend event, but also to difficult travel around town here. We turned our attention to preparing for the visit of Muksang Tulku in less than two weeks!!! Your friendly Stupa gals are on the roster as chopons, so we're going through some video we shot of our training to gleen the necessary information to practice. Here's a quick clip of Ani Yeshi attempting to do an elegant mudra with two spoons...soon we'll post Pema Rangdol doing the same mudra so you can see why she got so distressed:

Though this may look silly, trust we are taking this responsibility seriously! If you want to join us for the practice it is due to be performed with Rinpoche's present on March 5th in Poolesville, Maryland!

Until then, despite the treacherous conditions on the roads (should clear today actually) please do come out and visit the temple! No need to be Buddhist or even care about Buddhism, this is a place open 24 hours a day every day for anyone seeking some peace in this chaotic world...come get a breath of fresh air!

Prayer Room

2007-02-13T20:29:00.000-05:00

It's been a busy week for your crew here! We've gone inside and taken up learning to chopon, which is the ritual aspect of practice in our lineage. We invited a monk who has been staying in New York, but who was raised and trained in India, to come down and show us westerners the basics.

Here's a shot of the mandala we set up:

We also wanted to share some video with you too! The first is a quick tour of our prayer room at KPC, which is open 24 hours a day. This is Ani Yeshi finishing her prayer shift...

It's been a slow day here, snow and ice getting us all bundled in our blankets at home. I did stop by the temple on the way to work this morning though, so here is a video circumambulation around the Enlightenment stupa in the snow...

This video is our preparation for the Rigzin Dupai practice with Lama Pema Rangdol who visited us from New York City. Thank you Lama Pema!

May all beings benefit from these efforts.

February 8th....Review...

2007-02-07T04:25:00.000-05:00

We've got a lot coming up here in Poolesville, with visits from two different Tulkus scheduled for this month!

So the Stupa Team has been busy getting ready. You'll see some images from our upcoming chopon training (more on that when it arises) but for now, I figured I'd share with you some scans from a book on Statues and Stupas from Bhutan. The book was given to us by Khenpo Norgye when he gave us the class on filling statues a few years ago.

The following images will show how similar filling statues is to filling Stupas....

Each level of the statue or Stupa has prayers and offerings placed in it. You can see as well they share a central channel. In fact, you can find Statues in some parts of the world that are as large or even larger than our Stupas!

Just wanted to give you a glimpse as to what makes these works of art much more than that, what transforms them into sacred objects.

You don't need to know all this to benefit from them though, they offer their blessings regardless of recipient understanding! Fortunate for us inexperienced folk! So please do come out to the temple and enjoy them, whether out of curiosity or to experience their peace and compassion. It is available to you 24 hours a day (doors open!), every day!

February 4th...Plans...

2007-02-04T20:32:00.000-05:00

Well....we've been experiencing a departure from Stupa work for the time being, but decided to keep sharing the experiences with you!

We've got a series of events coming up, the first of which involves some training in the ritual aspects of our practices. Yours truly is the one tasked with coordinating...alas...swimming in uncharted waters again! The Stupas help prepare us!

While I study train schedules and fire off emails (not the most exciting activity eh?) I figured I'd share a glimpse of our gift store, the Mani Jewel with you. This was shot by Ashley, our 12 year old (soon to be 13) video assistant!

Here it is:

So even if you aren't into Stupas, or temples, you could come check out the gift store! Lots of unique and intriguing items there to browse....

We'll keep you posted as the events progress...and now with our new video skills...heck, you might get an even better view!

2007-02-03T11:35:00.000-05:00

Stupa Repair Resource List

Coatings:

Enlightenment Stupa:

Silin AZ Mineral Coating: available through Cathedral Stone: http://www.cathedralstone.com/Product.aspx?id=34

This product is a potassium silicate coating. It requires no prime coat. Prep includes repairing any cracks or damage, and a thorough cleaning of the surface which can be accomplished using a power washer. Cathedral Stone is located in Hanover, Maryland and is driving distance from the temple (about 90 minutes one way). Estimated need for complete repainting of the Stupa is 10 gallons. The coating is available in 5 gallon pails. We have been able to fax orders through with credit card info (there is a Stupa fund credit card if necessary, MUST ensure funds are available and get permission to use this card--contact the treasurer for more info).

Gold Stupas:

Modern Masters Pharaohs Gold: This is a 100% gold metallic acrylic paint. It is available in small quantities (quarts) from vendors of Benjamin Moore paints, Strosnieders Hardware, and possibly other vendors. For gallons we have used Monarch Paints in Chevy Chase: http://www.monarchpaintdc.com

Monarch has been offering us both tax exemption and contractor pricing (about 30% off what other vendors charged us) so when purchasing be sure to present our tax exempt card and let them know we are from KPC in Poolesville, the Buddhist Temple. We have used both yellow and white prime coats under this paint (is is semi-opaque, requiring several coats for full coverage). The white prime coat seems to produce the best result. For Migyur Dorje Stupa 3 gallons would be required for a full repainting. The Ngagpa Yeshe Dorje Stupa and small Stupas could all be done with one gallon.

NOTE: The Stupa Park was painting with a special order metallic gold acrylic which we will not be re-ordering due to both expense and difficulty in application. Future repainting of the Stupa Park should be done with the Modern Masters, and will require sanding (to assist in the adhering if new coats---not down to concrete necessarily) and priming before applying the new paint. Estimated paint per coat in the Stupa Park is 3 gallons (ballpark). This includes the main Stupa and the eight smaller ones. That means a full repainting could require 8 - 10 gallons of the gold (again, estimation based on coverage over prime coat).

Repair Materials:

M90 Repair Mortar: available through Cathedral Stone at: http://www.cathedralstone.com/Product.aspx?id=17

This is used for large repairs (greater than 1/4" span) and generally for areas of damage requiring filling in of holes, gaps or damaged corners. This can be shaped, molded and has proven durable so far (after two years).

We have used a thin set mortar from Cathedral Stone as well for small cracks, but it is very expensive and less successful. It works if used as directed, but requires that repaired areas be kept moist for 3 days, which often does not happen, it is less tolerant of improper application than the M90. The M120 is their thin set mortar. We have determined we will try readily available thin sets for small cracks in the future, to evaluate benefits vs. cost of the M120. The rational of the expense of the M120 is that it is a non-epoxy based material, which with breath as the concrete does, and which should bond to the concrete without damage. The epoxy based repair materials are more damaging to the concrete around the repair (think of how really sticky tape damages a wall when you try to remove it). Our experience is too limited to truly evaluate the level of damage caused by epoxy based repair materials, but so far it does not appear to be a problem. The issue with thin set repair in general is they tend to fail. The deeper the repair the more surface area it bonds with, the less likely it is to pop out with expansion and contraction from changing environmental conditions. Thin repairs have failed for us, requiring re-repair.

Bonding Agents:

PC-11: this is a waterproof version of PC-7, both epoxy type bonding agents. The PC-11 has the advantage that it can be applied in wet conditions, or in situations where rain is expected. It is available online in cans (for large projects this is much more economical, it does not spoil). For emergency situations (like when a spire breaks loose or tigle comes off) it can be obtained at Pooles Hardware in Poolesville. It can NOT be found at Home Depot or Lowe's for some reason, FYI--so save yourself a trip.

January 31st...History....

2007-01-31T19:53:00.000-05:00

This photo is where it all started. Taken back in December of 2003 at the request of Ani Dawa, who was living in Sedona then, I knew as soon as I saw this Stupa it could not be left that way. Vines growing all over it, mold. It is in a remote part of the property, I didn't even know it was there...but I was out there the next day with concrete cleaner (yup...it was dang cold!) pulling weeds and scrubbing mold. Not long after I was asked to take on ALL the Stupas...yikes!

Fortunately, however, all that was needed was someone to take up the call...many, many answered!

You can view a slide show of the 3 year restoration process by clicking

HERE

We've completed the first phase of renovations, but we feel the spring coming through the chill in the air! We're already talking about grounds work out at the Stupa Park and around the wall of Migyur Dorje, not to mention the lotus petal and finishing the Stupa wall with amethyst and rose quartz!

We'll keep you posted! Of course, all of this is done so that anyone can visit these amazing structures and enjoy their blessings! Remember, no need to know what they are or how they work for them to bring benefit to you and all those you pray for!

January 30th....Morning walk...

2007-01-30T17:30:00.000-05:00

Back in the work week here...but living in Poolesville it's easy to swing by the Stupa on the way to work! Here's a quick video circumambulation I shot this morning to share with you all....

Here's a still shot of one of the temple cats...

We have several cats that have been abandoned on our property, and which we attempt to keep fed. Any of you soft hearted types out there that might consider bringing one of these little folks into your home know that a few are really friendly! We'll do our best to care for them...but we have a continually growing population (folks bring them here when they can't take care of them anymore). They at least have the connection to the Stupa, and a steady food supply, but some seem like they want to be pets...

As you can see, the Stupa is beautiful in the mornings, as it is all throughout the day and night. It is always available to you, anytime! If you can't get to Poolesville, we'll keep you in touch here!

Peace Rally in DC

2007-01-28T20:32:00.000-05:00

Still wiped out from the peace march yesterday, but thought we would share a few video clips with you.

These were taken with a compact digital still camera, so they aren't stellar, but we hope you get a sense of "being there"!

Here's are some stills:

Although we are recovering from the large event this weekend, remember that the temple is available to all and open 24 hours a day. So stop in and say some prayers for the world or just take some time and enjoy the peace.

Mipham - What About Me

2007-01-28T09:13:00.001-05:00

It's been a while once again, but we're working on content. For now we wanted to share a great video with you! This video features poetry by Tibetan Buddhist Lama Sakyong Rinpoche, Lineage Holder of the Shambala lineage. He has studied with our own His Holiness Penor Rinpoche as well. It's a great offering to those of us in the west...enjoy!

New Year's Day 2007

2007-01-01T09:31:00.000-05:00

Well, we've been busy but alas my hands have been so involved in the labor that I haven't taken pictures!

So I'll start the New Year by re-posting a link to a short video introducing a statue filling workshop we attended in New York in 2005. We recorded the two day workshop on video, but the editing has proven more time consuming than we imagined, but eventually....

For now you can see Khenpo Norgye describing the purpose of Stupas and statues, sacred images, and why they are an important part of our lives.

If I could figure out how to embed this I would, but I haven't been able to get that technical. Hope you enjoy it!

We'll be out at the temple today working on rolling some mantras and (if our seamstress instructor is able to get out there) getting a sewing lesson so we can complete some prayer flags.

As you can see our work has expanded beyond Stupas since we completed the first phase (and the largest phase) of the renovations, but don't worry, the Stupas are always on our list!

It is our hope you will take advantage of the many sacred images available to you here in Poolesville, Maryland at KPC. No need to be Buddhist, or have any interest in Buddhism, the temple and grounds are all here to bring benefit to all beings without any exception. And of course, if you can't make it to Maryland in person, we'll keep you in touch here!

December 27th, 2006---Late updates!

2006-12-27T22:19:00.000-05:00

This shot is from almost two weeks ago. Ani Yeshi and Ashley are applying our concrete stain to the lotus petal! What was amazing is we had a 75 degree day here in Maryland in the middle of December! Just what we needed to get this done!

The posting is a bit of a challenge right now as blogger is switching over to google, and I'm having issues with access to this account, but I think I'm working it out...I hope...: )

In any case, there's lots of activities heading our way this weekend and we're hoping some of you out there might be curious enough to come by and check it out! You can just watch if you want, don't worry!

Of course, the temple and Stupas are available to you 24 hours a day every day, whether you're Buddhist or not. It is our sincere hope you will take advantage of the tremendous blessings offered here, all you see on these pages is dedicated to keeping it all here for you!

Youth Program, 12.17.06

2006-12-26T10:54:00.000-05:00

As Buddhists, we begin all activities, classes, and practices with opening prayers. We use this time to set our intention to be of benefit to all sentient beings.

2006-12-26T10:53:00.000-05:00

Once our intention is set, we all get to work!

2006-12-26T10:52:00.000-05:00

Each child chooses a box for an adult male or female & a child male or female. Then they set to work filling them with gifts.

2006-12-26T10:51:00.000-05:00

Next, they made cards for each gift…

2006-12-26T10:50:00.000-05:00

Everyone worked hard at making each card and gift just right.

2006-12-26T10:49:00.000-05:00

Now it is time to take the gifts outside.

2006-12-26T10:46:00.000-05:00

Where are we going? To the stupa of course! We include the stupas in our practices as much as possible.

2006-12-26T10:45:00.000-05:00

We all go to the stupa to make wishing prayers with every gift box that they might be of benefit to those who receive them.

2006-12-26T10:25:00.000-05:00

Finally, the boxes are ready to go! The kids load Ani Samten’s car with their gifts of compassion and love.

December 16th, 2006

2006-12-16T21:08:00.000-05:00

Yeah...we haven't really kept up on the blog I know. But we're back at trying to! The project we worked with today was the lotus petal in front of the temple. Tara and I spent last Saturday grinding (with our beloved angle grinder!) off layer after layer of paint. The last layer had begun to completely flake off, forcing us to seek better solutions.

Our ultimate goal is to recast the whole thing using glass aggregate in concrete, which will never flake off, even with foot traffic. After much investigation (and some darn high hopes) we ultimately surrendered to our time frame and devoted ourselves to an intermediate step (something clearly had to be done now). The weather, quircky as it is, supported us by bringing us a 60 degree weekend in mid-December. So we took up the task of applying concrete stain on the medallian (more durable than paint...though the color choices are very limited so forgive the lack of punch in the final colors).

In this shot you can see we went for the whole system when we purchased the stain, from prep to topcoat...

2006-12-16T21:02:00.000-05:00

The first step in the process (after many hours of research, discussion, and finally a walk through Home Depot to evaluate options) was a thorough wash of the medallion. We used products specifically designed to prepare for the stain...

2006-12-16T20:48:00.000-05:00

After the wash was etching, which involved a pretty toxic smelling chemical (we're pretty use to that now...)

2006-12-16T20:47:00.000-05:00

After washing, etching and thorough rinsing we sped up the drying process a little...
Once it was dry we applied a bonding primer to facilitate adhesion since we were applying over paint (recommended method). The primer needed 8 hours to dry, so we'll be finishing up the stain tomorrow...

2006-12-16T20:42:00.000-05:00

We utilized what sunlight was left in the day to fix the brocade in the Long Life Stupa gau. It had come loose in places, so we brought our handy JB Weld and made sure the fabric adhered to the velcro. So the goal is to complete the staining of the lotus petal tomorrow, on a sunny, warm December day! We'll be contending with some traffic out there...

As always, it is our hope that you will come see these amazing sources of blessing for yourself. The Stupas, temple, and land are all here for any being that seeks a refuge or place to unwind. No need to be Buddhist---and we won't make you work either!

December 11th, 2006

2006-12-11T20:01:00.000-05:00

It was a long time coming I know! This is a photo of Migyur Dorje with the wall completed---totally!! It's been a busy month for your Stupa crew, we've both moved into a new house in Poolesville (well, new to us). We've been working out at the temple as always, but the move has taken up all our "spare" time! Now we're settling (it's still an evolving process) but we're back online and ready to keep you all up to date.

Our responsibilities at the temple have expanded, so we'll be sharing all our adventures with you here! Of course, you can always come out and participate in person! We all love what we do, and we'd love to share the opportunities! Of course, you don't have to work to enjoy the Stupas and temple, they're both available to everyone, whoever you are, 24 hours a day. It is our sincere hope you'll come out and see it for yourself!

Retaining wall fun

2006-11-17T09:53:00.000-05:00

With the retaining wall finished, we needed to backfill with aggregate and dirt. Pete stepped up to fill in the aggregate and impressed us all with amazing bobcat skills!
Unfortunately, he could not make it to the site in the morning so we looked around to see who would take his place. Wait a minute...
No, no, no! I don't want to drive this thing...but Norbu and Ani Sonam would not give up on me.

2006-11-17T09:52:00.000-05:00

Norbu watches as I try my first scoop. Yikes!

2006-11-17T09:51:00.000-05:00

After receiving directions and a demonstration from Norbu, I manage to transport the dirt across the street to the Migyur Dorje stupa.

2006-11-17T09:50:00.000-05:00

All of my buds are there to support me...Beth watches and makes sure I dont get too close to the stupa.

2006-11-17T09:35:00.000-05:00

Pete continues filling the wall...

2006-11-17T09:34:00.000-05:00

Uh oh...as you can see our bobcat has more than one purpose! Norchu's vehicle rolled down the hill into a creek...Pete and Sandy help her pull it out with the bobcat.

2006-11-17T09:33:00.000-05:00

This was my first scoop behind the wall...can you tell I was a little bit nervous?

2006-11-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

Ani Sonam cheers me on with Ani Dawa and Ashby there for support as well.

2006-11-17T09:31:00.000-05:00

While waiting for the bobcat to return, sangha members pitch in with their shovels. Thanks Marilyn and Ashby!

2006-11-17T09:30:00.001-05:00

Ani Sonam joins in on the fun.

2006-11-17T09:30:00.000-05:00

We are always inviting you to join us at the stupas and circumambulate and pray...Ani Pema's dog did just that! Adorable, huh?

2006-11-17T09:27:00.000-05:00

Okay, now that the dirt has been filled in, what is the next step? Mulch... we unload into the bobcat for Pete to transport...cuz they are heavy!!

2006-11-17T09:24:00.000-05:00

Ani Sonam and I cant believe how much is left to heft into the bobcat...must take break...ugh.

2006-11-17T09:21:00.000-05:00

Did I tell you this guy has skills or what? Thanks Pete!

We finished the wall before the election (which was our goal). Unfortunately, we were so focused on finishing that we did not take a picture of the finished product. I promise we will get that posted soon.

2006-11-15T10:08:00.000-05:00

Okay, this is just between us...I really enjoyed learning how to drive the bobcat (dont tell Norbu and Ani Sonam or they will raz me)...so whats next? Maybe I can learn how to drive a forklift? Yeah!

By this effort may all sentient beings be free of suffering.

November 2nd....Guru Yoga and following instructions...

2006-11-02T20:20:00.000-05:00

Many years ago, when the Stupa was completed, His Holiness Penor Rinpoche informed us that we had a problem. (We are now use to such information) The bottom gold area should be touching the ground, it is called the "earth hugging layer". For many years folks puzzled over this and finally....

2006-11-02T20:15:00.000-05:00

Here's the solution we conceived...well...actually it wasn't our brainchild. We simply heard the instruction, and worked on finding a way to implement it. His Holiness had suggested some sort of wall with plants....so now you get to see concept become reality! This image is the one Ashby cooked up for us once we got a handle on actual solutions, meaning decorative concrete block. After many months of research and effort...

2006-11-02T20:06:00.000-05:00

Monday the foundation for the wall was laid. Ani Yeshi and I (obsessed with this project!) each visited the Stupa in the dark to see it. This photo was taken Tuesday morning early, living in Poolesville has great advantages!

2006-11-02T20:04:00.000-05:00

This was the status of the wall by the end of the day on Tuesday. Each of those large blocks weighs over 70lbs! Ani Yeshi and I were pretty relieved to not have to place them all! Not to mention the reality hitting us at how difficult it would have been to cut all the corner pieces and keep everything level....whew!

2006-11-02T20:01:00.000-05:00

This is one thing we did notice that will need to be addressed. The path around the Stupa became pretty narrow in the southwest corner (the others look okay). We (or our grounds crew preferrably...we harm plants...) will need to move that flower bed back to make the path more uniform....

2006-11-02T19:58:00.000-05:00

Nothing drives a Stupa gal (or gals) crazier than activity that happens in our absence! So we both got up early and met at the Stupa to check out the progress this morning. The wall was finished, with the exception of a few capstones (shipping error....don't worry, our faithful contractor fixed this today...no shots though, as it was dark when I left work). We were both overjoyed at how it turned out...but....

2006-11-02T19:56:00.000-05:00

Here's a shot of what she was looking at...that's a pretty big hole actually. We've been busy today scrambling for a plan to fill it in with aggregate and dirt, so we can finally get earth up to the earth hugging layer. We have bobcat fantasies...but we'll have to keep you posted as to whether we are that fortunate! But I'm guessing you want to get a glimpse of the wall!

2006-11-02T19:54:00.000-05:00

Granted it is still a little dark, but had to swing by on the way to work to get the shot....So there you go! It's really there! This is not a "mock up" it is something you can touch! And more importantly, something that will hold the earth up to the "earth hugging layer" of the Stupa! Please do come out and see it for yourself! It's an amazing transformation, and it happened quickly thanks to Brook Lee, who gave us a super discounted rate for the job. Thanks as well to Kurt from Standard Supply, who worked with us until he found a way for the wall to be built (even when it meant finding someone to do it!). In case you're reading this, concerned you weren't able to generate any merit as this occurred, don't fret. : ) We'll be working hard at backfilling over the weekend. Our goal is by election day, so if you want to lend a hand even one shovel full of dirt or aggregate would be sufficient to generate tremendous blessings for the sake of beings! So bring your compassionate aspirations and join us for this long awaited event. Of course, if you can't get to the Stupa in person, your prayers are always welcome!

October 30th....Aspirations and Intention...

2006-10-29T18:55:00.000-05:00

Take one last look at that bare concrete base! Construction will begin on the retaining wall tomorrow!

2006-10-29T18:54:00.000-05:00

We worked on trying to turn another of the small Stupas in the gardens. Unfortunately, we were unsuccessful (don't fret, we'll keep at it until we get it done!). One bolt was extracted by cutting a new slot in it, but the same technique didn't work on the others...too rusted so the heads fell apart. For now, with the sun setting even earlier, we decided to regroup later, hoping for some insight to arise that might help us get this done more easily.

Tomorrow is the big day though, so please do come out and visit the Stupa if you can! Weather looks to be sunny and pleasant for a fall day, great day for a walk to the Stupa! You can check out Brook Lee and his crew as they begin the long awaited wall! We won't be around to take photos (but we've begged everyone else we could think of to for us), but will try to keep you updated as it progresses!

October 26th....Getting Closer

2006-10-26T06:25:00.000-04:00

You may recall that a few weeks ago we resumed our hunt for options in constructing a wall around Migyur Dorje. This is a shot I took at Standard Supply in Gaithersburg. I had a long conversation with Kurt there, who was very attentive to the needs of this project (pretty awesome considering how odd and small it is).

After weeks of discussion, painful calculations for Ani Yeshi and I, we called to ask Kurt if he had any advice to offer. He brought out a contractor/supplier to help us get a firmer estimate, and what do you know! The contractor and Kurt (we weren't present for their exploration of the Stupa alas) examined our situation and determined it best if they build the wall for us. Brook Lee, the contractor, has offered to build the wall for us for just a bit more than it would have cost to buy materials! He's ready to start work on Monday!

All along I'd harbored secret hopes we could get the wall up in time for the upcoming elections, so perhaps the tides of war and greed might be subdued by compassion and solid moral conduct. Now, it seems, it may actually happen! If you'd like to participate in this amazing opportunity to help complete the wall, we need $3300 by the middle of next week! Yikes! But we can't put this off...it's been over 10 years since we were first informed of the need to do this, and we've finally found a solution that will get the job done, and that we can reasonably hope to afford. If you'd like to contribute, please use the donate button on this page, and make sure you put a comment at the bottom of your paypal page indicating what it's for. If you'd like to help backfill the earth around the Stupa once the wall is up, we'll let you know when that starts right here!

2006-10-26T06:16:00.000-04:00

The wall won't be super attractive. We've received instructions from our teacher however, as to how to make it beautiful once the wall is up. She wants it covered with amethyst and rose quartz! Whew! We're looking forward to figuring that out, but right now our focus is getting through the construction of the wall. Keep it in your prayers, obstacles can happen!

Of course, there's no need to wait for the wall to be there to enjoy the blessings of this amazing structure. Stupas benefit all who see them, whether they know what they are or not. So please do come out and enjoy the fall weather!

October 22, 2006 Orientation

2006-10-22T20:53:00.000-04:00

We usually end our days by going around the stupa while making wishing prayers. Today, our new cinematographer, Ashley, captured this event on video. Click the link below for a virtual circumambulation!

click here

2006-10-22T20:45:00.000-04:00

Photos today courtesy of Ashley Banana, our newest stupa team photographer...most of you probably already know Norbu Tashi.

2006-10-22T20:44:00.000-04:00

It was brought to our attention that the small stupas in the gardens were not all facing East. Our project for the day was to assess the situation and figure out how to rotate them to the correct direction.

2006-10-22T20:41:00.000-04:00

And it didnt take long to encounter our first obstacle, but luckily we had the old grinder blade in the back of the truck.

2006-10-22T20:40:00.000-04:00

We changed the grinder blade and went back to work.

2006-10-22T20:39:00.000-04:00

My confident teammate watches from afar...

2006-10-22T20:34:00.001-04:00

Uh oh...

2006-10-22T20:34:00.000-04:00

The trusty stupa truck...

2006-10-22T20:33:00.000-04:00

As you can see, Ani Yeshi finally gets to pick a photo that goes on the blog...

2006-10-22T20:32:00.000-04:00

Clearly we are not able to move the stupa on our own...

2006-10-22T20:30:00.000-04:00

With Steve's help, we unbolted the feet of the pagoda and turned the stupa to face East. As you can see from the photos, fall has arrived...it is a great time to come out and walk the trails to see the stupas or just enjoy the land.

October 1, 2006....Compassion in Action...

2006-10-01T18:54:00.000-04:00

Today we took a break from Stupa work to attend a public introduction by the Garuda Aviary team (seen here are Rigzin, full time caretaker of the birds, and Ani Pema, a veteranarian who has devoted her life and career to serving the needs of the animals adopted by the Taras Babies Animal Rescue program). We were introduced to two of the 30+ birds currently being cared for in the aviary. They explained it much better than I could, so I won't attempt to describe their mission in detail, other than to say they're committed to caring for birds who have been abandoned by their owners, and many of whom were severely neglected or abused. The aviary was recently relocated to Poolesville here, from Arizona, in order to be closer to "home base" for the temple. They had been residing in a garage converted to an aviary, and the goal here is create an aviary for them specifically designed to meet their unique needs. You can find out more about them at their website: http://www.garudaaviary.org/

2006-10-01T18:49:00.000-04:00

This is Chico, pulled from an attic in New Orleans last year nearly starved to death. Now he's chubby and happy, living in the loving care of one of the nuns that went to New Orleans to help rescue dogs abandoned after the hurricaine. He is one of 130 dogs our organization took care of, finding either their owners or homes for all but 10 of them. Those 10, who were ferrel and totally inappropriate for adoption, are currently being rehabilitated in Dakini Valley, Arizona. An emergency operation had been set up there to care for the dogs coming out of New Orleans, and the committment was to see every single one returned to a state of security and safety, in a loving environment.

2006-10-01T18:42:00.000-04:00

You can see there was quite a turn out for the talk. Rigzin conveyed many stories about the birds, revealing their personalities and the unique challenges associated with caring for creatures whose lifespans often exceed those of their caretakers.

The Garuda Aviary is one branch of Taras Babies, an animal rescue organization started by members of our temple in response to hurricane Katrina. Once the majority of the rescue dogs were placed, the reality that many beings are out there suffering all the time. Work has begun to transition the facilities erected in an emergency into structures that can not only serve the needs of beings over the long haul, but can grow to embrace even more beings! This is one tangible way the principle of compassion we've been taught has been put into practice. I'm a poor spokesperson for these amazing folks, as they work day and night to support the animals---literally. Our own task of keeping up the Stupas is more forgiving, as these folks have beings who rely on them totally every day for ongoing care and in many cases, rehabilitation. If you'd like to learn more about it you can visit their website www.tarasbabies.org and see all the plans they are attempting to implement to create a permanent refuge out of the temporary shelter started for the Katrina dogs.

If you're a Stupa fan, the Stupas benefit animals tremendously. Animals have few opportunities to accumulate the causes for spiritual awakening (since they don't really have a way to learn the principles), but merely seeing a Stupa, or having the great good fortune to walk clockwise around it (even if by accident) plants the seed of Buddhahood in their minds! Of course, that goes for people too! You don't have to be Buddhist to enjoy the blessings of the Stupas, or to join in our efforts to bring peace and comfort to beings of all species!

September 28th...Food for Thought....

2006-09-28T20:09:00.000-04:00

Today I decided to check out another possible vendor for the wall. I stopped by Standard Supply in Gaithersburg, having seen some concrete block in their window on a previous visit. I found they had a large indoor display of various concrete block solutions, and spoke with Kurt Lucas, who gave this Ani a lot to think about. For starters....that brown looking block in the middle there...each one weighs over 90lbs!!! Yikes! And we thought with the sandblasting done the worst we'd have to do is dig! The block next to it weighs about 70lbs though...more manageable. Kurt spent quite a while talking with me about the process, equipment we'd need, and tried to work up an estimate. Unfortunately, our situation (as usual) is unusual, so we'll be following up with him to give him measurements and photos...But overall it was a very informative visit.

2006-09-28T20:04:00.000-04:00

So you all know, I did swing by the Stupa on my way home to make some offerings and circumambulate. It was wicked cloudy, not long after this shot it stormed. The Stupas are beautiful anytime though! So please do come out and visit! The temple is open 24 hours a day, and we have some hot water for tea and coffee avaible anytime...so even a rainy day can be a nice day to see a Stupa!

September 26th....Plans and Aspirations

2006-09-27T20:50:00.000-04:00

Remember this? This is a mock up Ashby did of Migyur Dorje with the wall! Of course, we've now repainted the relief, so it's back to full color. Now that all that's done, we're turning our attention back to this....the wall.

Why, you may be wondering, would we build a wall? The answer is under this Stupa is a "suppression box"---I don't know the technical term for it, but it is a chamber that contains all those elements in the world we are seeking to suppress, like weapons, illness, that sort of thing. This chamber is suppose to be completely underground, and the Stupa seals it beneath the ground, suppressing those negative forces. The way our Stupa sits right now (thanks to some translation issues and misunderstandings), this chamber is exposed, meaning those harmful forces are not completely subdued. Thus, we need to get the earth up to the "earth hugging layer" of the Stupa, which is the bottom level of the gold. His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, the supreme head of our lineage (who broke the bad news to us after the Stupa was consecrated) suggested we build a wall and back fill with earth, bringing the earth up to the earth hugging layer. Many plans and designs have evolved over the years, but our current plan has the advantage of being affordable, easy to implement, reasonably attractive and effective at meeting the requirement. Our plan is to construct a retaining wall out of decorative concrete block.....

2006-09-27T20:41:00.000-04:00

Though the day was spent getting my car serviced and running errands which were long overdue, Ani Yeshi and I did discuss biting the bullet and getting started on the wall this weekend! Yup! No backhoe, just shovels and our devotion. Of course, the more the merrier!

So you don't think we're completely off, here's a scan from a booklet we were given by a local vendor on the product we plan to use. You can see from the top right of this photo, that it is designed for the DIY novice. We'll be struggling with calculators tomorrow (I've been avoiding this...but my bud may bail me out here...). The goal is to get a a reasonable estimate of the cost. I'll also be checking out other potential sources for materials, trying to get a good price. Though these images may not be exciting, they do reveal the planning that goes into our work. Okay...we don't always plan well...but truly, research and planning have helped us achieve almost everything we've been able to accomplish, so I'm sharing some of that with you!

Of course, the goal of all of it is to keep the Stupas in top shape and available for all who wish to spend time with them. No need to get your hands dirty or worry about any of these things! They are here as sources of blessings and benefit for all beings, no matter who you are! So come on out and see them for yourselves!

September 25th....When Dreams Come True....

2006-09-25T20:01:00.000-04:00

Ever heard the expression "be careful what you wish for?" Well, it's been this Stupa gal's experience that with the fulfillment of wishes comes great responsibility (liberating all sentient beings is, after all, the ultimate goal of all this!). Today an amazing opportunity was laid before me....

I spent the afternoon with Ani Dawa, who is traveling back and forth between here and Sedona as a result of our Teacher moving here. She arranged for many Stupa supplies to be sent here to Maryland, entrusting them to our care. Sounds great (and it is) but the responsibility is not small. We spent the afternoon opening crates and examining contents, and Dawa told me what she knew (which fortunately is quite a bit) about how all these things are used. The person who created all the molds, and did all the artwork in the past, is no longer practicing, and thus, there is a void to be filled.

2006-09-25T19:59:00.000-04:00

According to Dawa, this stuff, though it is so light you could easily think that bucket was empty, is very expensive. It is mixed with the fortran (which has a liquid consistency---at least it did the time we were shown how to use it) to create a more viscous media to work with, allowing for creation of hollow spaces within large molds....this is all hearsay...I've never tried to use any of this...but am eager to learn!

2006-09-25T19:56:00.000-04:00

The materials being used are mixes....here's one component....

2006-09-25T19:55:00.000-04:00

This is one of the standard ingredients, according to my tour guide...

2006-09-25T19:54:00.000-04:00

She didn't just bring us materials and molds, she brought us tools! There are several scales in this box, including one that has very fine adjustments. That's because some of the materials used in these processes require precise mixing ratios. Yikes! Lots to learn!

2006-09-25T19:52:00.000-04:00

What you see here is a set of copper reliefs plated with gold, which had been acquired for the Amitabha Stupa in Arizona. It turned out the spire was not the right dimensions, so they were never used. Shipped from Nepal (I think that's what she said), they are precious objects, containing mantras in sanskrit, awaiting a Stupa Spire to adorn!

2006-09-25T19:50:00.000-04:00

Here you see the inside of a small Stupa mold. This piece, of all of them, got my attention the most. It's small size offers us a chance to work with materials to learn the art of casting and mold making, all while building tiny Stupas!

2006-09-25T19:49:00.000-04:00

This is part of the mold for the flower garland that surrounds the relief on the Migyur Dorje Stupa. We found that almost everything was here now, from the mold for Migyur Dorje himself to the huge snow lions, down to the tiny suns and moons for the 3 foot Stupas. Dawa was thrilled to have delivered them into our care. She has committed, fortunately, to assisting us in the learning process associated with this amazing treasury...

2006-09-25T19:46:00.000-04:00

After my introduction to the molds, I headed out to the Stupa Park to caulk around the gau. Don't fret, it was dry in there (despite the rain).

2006-09-25T19:45:00.000-04:00

Though we didn't have the practice out here as we'd planned (it rained all day) many offerings were made to the Long Life Stupa!

2006-09-25T19:44:00.000-04:00

This is a Parinirvana Stupa, representing the Buddha's complete victory over death. It is one of the eight Stupas surrounding the Long Life Stupa for our Teacher. Much work has gone into getting the Stupa Park cleaned and repaired, so it is our hope that those of you who can will brave the wooded hike out to it. It is, from this Stupa gal's perspective, the most peaceful place on the property. Fully consecrated by His Holiness Penor Rinpoche himself, it offers ceaseless blessings to the countless beings who encounter it. We hope you'll make the journey out!

September 23....challenges and perseverance

2006-09-23T17:58:00.000-04:00

With our Teacher, Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo, relocating here to remain in residence and teach, some of the students from Arizona have decided to relocate as well. This is a truck rented by Dawn, who is moving here. Though her needs were modest, she took upon herself the great responsibility of transporting items for the temple as well. That included some Stupa related items....all the molds for the artwork on the Migyur Dorje Stupa. Fortunately, we had Norbu and Tashi available to help unload!

2006-09-23T17:55:00.000-04:00

So there they are. They may not look like much, but those are the molds for the artwork on Migyur Dorje! There are also pieces from which 3 foot Stupas can be made! Though the shed isn't the perfect long term solution, we're relieved that at least they are shelted from rain. These things were HEAVY, so it will be an adventure learning to work with them....

2006-09-23T17:53:00.000-04:00

Our planned project for the day was getting the Long Life Stupa ready for the ceremony tomorrow (a food offering ceremony) in celebration of the enthronement of our Teacher. Here Yeshi applies fresh paint to the throne in the shed. The shed was a disaster, and Tashi, a monk who recently moved here from Arizona, worked hard for days to create a space where we could work...

2006-09-23T17:51:00.000-04:00

After the unloading of the truck, we headed out to the Stupa Park to continue working on mounting the brocade...