I’ve heard Bali described many ways, tropical paradise, island of the gods, exotic, enchanted, magical, the whole package. I’ve used the same or similar words myself, and believed them. I still do. But after an almost four year love-affair, my perspective has broadened. Infatuation has matured into a riper relationship, and the dalliance has become a committed bond.
I used to be blind to the warts, like an awestruck lover. As in marriage, some of the things that wowed and inspired me when I first set foot on this island, are now an accepted part of daily life. I remember wondering back then if living in Ubud would ever feel ordinary. Would I some day stop being amazed every time I woke up to the sound of roosters and the holy man’s prayers?
If ordinary means comfortable and familiar, the answer is yes. I know how to navigate the strange machinations of Indonesian culture. I co-exist with the lack of privacy and the communal assumptions inherent in this society. I know when someone calls me mbak (older sister) it’s a compliment, and that dadong (grandmother) is probably the more fitting endearment for my age group. I’ve discovered where to get the things I need and I’ve realized that I don’t need what I can’t get. I’m learning the language and that goes a long way toward feeling a part of things.
But if ordinary equals mundane, or dull, the answer is no, not ever. Each day I’m inspired or wowed by something new. Sometimes it’s as simple as a neon blue butterfly in the garden. And other times its bigger. For example, I had never walked the Campuhan Ridge. Laziness is the only explanation, as it’s 20 minutes from my house. But when I finally did, it was one of those special moments, like looking into your old love’s eyes and remembering why.
PHOTOS FROM THE CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK
Steps down to the bridge at the beginning of the trail
The path passes along the wall of the Pura Gunung Lebah Temple
Beautifully paved, the trail is flat and even, though at times hilly
Sweeping views on both sides kept my camera clicking
A farmer harvests the mountainside
After the long hike in full sun, the Karsa Kafe is a welcome sight
writing for self-discovery 
Oct 21, 2015 @ 12:55:18
you are in love and that should rest with you as it happened in this chapter in your life. nothing will be ordinary because minutes hours and days are precious and time is fleeting. nano seconds weeze bye and we are in awe as never before.
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Oct 21, 2015 @ 18:32:34
So true. I feel so fortunate to be here, alive, and in possession of 9/10ths of my wits! If I’d had the other 10th it wouldn’t have taken so long!
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Oct 21, 2015 @ 16:03:45
I love this and the photos. I’m sorry I only talked of this hike but never managed to get there. Your cooling days likely made it extra joyful to do. Is there more??? I appreciated your comparison to a love affair for it is one, of course,
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Oct 21, 2015 @ 18:35:17
There’s always more! But to your question, exactly more of what part?
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Oct 21, 2015 @ 20:07:58
Of your hike…
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 22:02:27
Sageblessings…there are more photos, of course. And there’s more to the story, always. But I choose the words and the pictures that feel like the truest and most succinct representation of that day to share on the blog. I’d rather leave people wanting more than to overstuff them until they walk away for sheer boredom!
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Oct 21, 2015 @ 18:15:57
So glad you walked the ridge.. and saw Pak Ketut in his field; say hi next time, he’s so sweet!
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Oct 21, 2015 @ 18:38:36
Can’t believe I didn’t do it sooner.
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Oct 21, 2015 @ 22:22:32
Exploring more of the layers of Bali, this one so very nearby! Glad the love affair is continuing into more depth and breadth….. Always love reading about your observations and experiences!
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 02:23:06
For me, Jan, even more fascinating than the landscapes are the complexities of the people. Those layers never end!
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 02:07:33
Glad you finally did the ridge walk………………. !
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 02:21:26
Me too!
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 06:16:05
I loved this post and found myself nodding my head in agreement. Thanks and I look forward as always to another trip into my own brain ❤️❤️
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 06:22:01
Haha! I love it that you relate so closely to my thought processes. Thank you for the comment.
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 12:47:03
I wish that I’d known about that walk when we were there. It looks so lush and lovely. It’s wonderful that Bali continues to inspire and delight you. You are such a beautiful soul, I’m sure the ‘Gods’ feel blessed to have you living there.
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Oct 22, 2015 @ 21:54:57
Bali continues to inspire, delight, and teach me. And even the lessons come in layers, each one peeled back only when I’m ready to understand.
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