Uluwatu

Bali.... C3 arrived in Bali a few days ago. We are exactly 12 hours ahead of the folks on the East coast. (I know I sent some emails out stating differently, but that was due to jet lag and stupidity.) Thankfully, our journey was relatively uneventful with the only glitch being luggage. We left with only the baggage pictured for the 3 people for one year.

China Air did a fabulous job and the luggage arrived at our final destination unharmed. In our sleep-deprived state, we left the airport sans one bag. Chris had to rent a scooter to go back for it! The last two days have been about sleep and recovery. I think I finally feel human again.

We are staying at the Uluwatu Resort on the Bukit Penisula. This Resort must have been something a few years back. It is a little rundown and up for sale. Don’t get me wrong. It is a great place to stay, the view is spectacular,

the staff is super-friendly, and the price is right, but it needs a little TLC. The room is large and with a vaulted ceiling. The bathroom is semi-open air, which lets in all sorts of light and a few lizards!

Colby has become good buddies with the staff. Any time he cries, they all come running to find out “why so sad?” (usually because his mean mother is trying to put clothes or sunscreen on him). With all of the beaches and fun outdoor activities, it is not so hard see why the wonder at his occasional melancholy. How could you possibly feel anything negative here?

After our day at the beach, we headed over to the Uluwatu temple last night to see a traditional Balinese dance. The dance starts just before sunset and ends in the dark. The only music comes from the 40 or so men who rhythmically chant for the whole hour. The dancers wear very elaborate costumes and this dance ended with a little fire earning its name – The Fire Dance.

The dancers whole faces are painted on, including their eyebrows. Their movements are very elegant, but punctuated, and originate mostly from their arms as their bodies are bound tightly in their costumes. Their pronounced facial expressions help to tell the story they are trying to convey in the dance. This particular dance was about a beautiful princess who is captured by an evil king. She is ultimately saved by the magical white monkey.

Colby’s little eyes wear like saucers the whole time. It was a true feast for the senses!