Have you ever pitched a project to a total stranger, confident of its meaning and purpose, sensing that the stars…
Oh-la-la Odalan!
I was ready to call it a night last evening, when I heard Nyoman call up at me from below:…
Off Limits. Verboten. Period.
All across the island, Balinese are today celebrating Kuningan, the holiday that takes place ten days after Galungan. This last…
Dead Gecko Diary
Another writing circle, another opportunity to exercise those Balinized brain muscles. You just need to show up, sit down (or…
Uncommon Carriers
On my way back from yoga earlier today, I walked behind this woman for nearly 10 minutes. I couldn’t take…
The Penjors Have It
Celebrations and fireworks are getting under way half a world away. But here in Ubud, blessedly, there’s not a single…
Joy of Wood
This is the view from the back terrace of a sprawling home encircled by rice paddies in a suburb of…
Under My Nose
Like many people who come to Ubud for a short while and then decide to stay longer, I’ve been trying…
Would You Like Bee Pollen?
It’s not every day that you’re offered this sweet ‘n sticky treat – unless, of course, you happen to live…
Cock-a-Doodle Days
The roosters of Tebesaya are at it again. But there’s something different in the air today; it’s the first morning…
Healing Pilgrim 