As a result of your gifts, work continues full speed ahead in the kitchen. We installed the cabinets last week so they could be templated for counter tops. This week, they are being moved to allow for plumbers and electricians to work toward installation of sinks and appliances. Sherman and Jiko help Fujaku with this. We are still hoping to cook in the kitchen for Jukai.

Because we can now move forward to finish Phase 1 as a result of successful fundraising last fall, we are finally working on the pad for the Workshop. The first step is leveling and gravel. Eventually there will be a concrete pad and foundation for the actual building.

The railings have been installed for the stairs both for the Sodo main entrance and the kitchen entrance. They have been set in concrete, and the “Caution” tape is to keep people from jiggling them until the concrete is fully set.

The plum blossoms at the top of the orchard look even more beautiful this week. Other buds and blossoms are appearing on the property and in the neighborhood. We seeded the grass pavers section of the courtyard this week, hoping for grass to come up soon. The frogs are singing in a loud chorus every night. Spring is coming!

In addition to regular Wednesday work parties, we can use your help anytime that we’re on schedule and not on retreat. Most days you can show up around 9:30 and head out toward the Sodo. Even if you only have an hour or a few, we can use your help to finish the Sodo. Just let Ikuo [ikuohull at gmail.com] know beforehand so we can count you in for lunch.