Beautiful Bali

We are back from Bali and all rested and tan. Despite the 8.4 earthquake and 7.9 and 7.6 aftershocks we were able to go. It seems Singapore felt a good "shake" but Bali is significantly east of Sumatra and they didn't even know much of anything was happening. What a beautiful place. The water is nearly as turquoise as the Caribbean. We took two tours by private taxi so we could really ask tons of questions and learn about their culture. Bali is a Hindu island while the rest of Indonesia is basically Muslim. It is astounding the conditions people live in and think it's typical. They mostly live in housing "compounds". You enter a gateway to immediately face a wall. This wall is to confuse and stop evil spirits or the devil. Once past this wall are small buildings left and right that fit 1-2 twin beds. No telling how many actually sleep there. All dining and living areas are outside but do have thatched roofs. Most have a well to draw water from and then they must boil it. There is no refrigeration and, of course, no air conditioning. I could not stand straight up in the kitchen area. Laundry is a stone slab and a bucket behind a concrete or stone wall. Each compound has it's own temple and it takes up a fair amount of the compound. They actually had electric wires hung from compound to compound so there was at least minimal light at night. They are such a mild, happy, easy going people. It reminded us of Jamaica a lot. You can learn a little more from the picture captions on the photo link. Should have those up shortly.

Back to reality. I am into my Malay classes. Was sick this week so now I'm behind. Also studying "The Purpose Driven Life" with a group of ladies from church. Al works, Al plays with Tucker, then Al works.

By birthday was great (even though I was a little under the weather). Started my day by talking to both of my precious children and also to Barbara. The neighbors here brought flowers and a cake. It was a great day.

Our internet has still been acting up so don't be discouraged when you can't get an email through or skype call. It cuts in and out but eventually it does work. Till later---