History buffs pay attention because yesterday we went to the Byodo-In Buddhist Temple, established on June 7th, 1968 to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. It translates to the temple of equality. It just so happens to be a scale replica of a temple in Japan that was built over 900 years ago. It was built to represent the mythical Phoenix and folklore tells of the Phoenix arising from the ashes to reflect the promises of hope and renewal.














This Buddha, towering over 18 feet, is thought to be the largest figure carved since ancient times.




These carp fish are thought to be the fattest in the Western Hemisphere. They have even been known to devour small farm animals and children.




Swans....they pair for years. Sometimes sustain their union for a lifetime. White swans in our dreams are symbolic of cleansing and purifying ourselves and our lives.




Mommy made a flower offering to the Gods while singing a yoga chant. She was hoping that the skies would part and the world would be restored to its most beautiful form.




The lotus flower....a divine symbol in Asian tradition for ions. Its unfolding petals suggest the expansion of the soul. It is grown from the mud and unfolds into pure, unstained beauty. It represents beauty, perfection, purity and grace. It symbolizes the timeless and continual process of birth and rebirth.




Mama is a real bird whisperer. She had them eating from her hand. Fortunately for her, they didn't peck her eyeballs out.




Mama banged the gong three times for love, light and rebirth. Because really, who doesn't need these three things in their life????




Sophie just banged for good measure!




It's always sweet to see daddy having a moment of reflection. He was actually probably planning a secret escape from all of us. But as usual, we foiled it!