The foundation for the new workshop is curing.
The Workshop
As the weather warms, the Ayyas are making progress on the new workshop. Thanks to generous supporters and volunteers, the concrete foundation is poured and is curing. This foundational step brings us closer to a workshop to store construction tools and a utility task vehicle (UTV) which will carry tools and materials to kuti building sites up the hill. The UTV will be purchased when the metal structure workshop is completed later this month.
Bridge building begins in March 2022.
The Bridge
The UTV will need a sturdy bridge to cross the spring creek up behind the house, and work has started on this aluminum bridge. As soon as the site is cleared this month, the bridge will need crossbars placed for it to be moved to its permanent site. Then, it will need its decking installed and anchoring performed. We hope to have a work party help with next steps for the bridge.
Ayya Santussika teaches in White Salmon, Washington, in May.
White Salmon
Ayya Santussika taught in White Salmon, Washington, in May at the invitation of the Columbia River Theravada Circle (CRTC). For this first visit to the Columbia River Gorge area she taught on “The Joy that Leads to Awakening.” Over twenty gathered at Yoga Samadhi to hear the Dhamma from Ayya. We have much mudita for the invitation by CRTC. Perhaps this first step will lead to others in the Gorge area.
Ayya Cittananda and Ayya Santussika teaching together in 2020.
Cloud Mountain
Both Ayya Cittananda and Ayya Santussika led a seven night retreat at Cloud Mountain in Washington state in early June. Twenty-two practitioners attended to hear teachings on and practice with "Infusing our Life with the Dhamma" This is the Ayyas' third year teaching at Cloud Mountain.
 | We Found a Bell! While in Washington state, the Ayyas visited a noted bell maker to see about a bell for the Hermitage. They found a beautiful bell with a copper patina and a sound that makes their hearts sing! The bell maker is able to make an 8 foot tall stand, all metal and portable. |
It is the Ayyas' hope that, with the help of supporters, this bell and its stand can be installed at the Hermitage this summer. It will call people from throughout the property to come in for the meal or meditation. Please contact us if you have questions about supporting the bell.