The last morning of the Conference brought us a presentation on patience and positive attitude from Thelma: something many of us lack. A session from Anne asked us 'what?' 'So what?'and 'Now what?' And finally Jenny's suggestion for the location of the next Conference was strongly endorsed, but I am not disclosing it here.
There was a flurry of activity as those of us colouring in (to improve our mindfulness) completed our masterpieces with a warm glow of achievement.
Then it was a 'free for all'. The afternoon was allowed for us to do anything we fancied. Lots of shopping in town, some simply resting by the pool and for an adventurous 3 of us a trip in the sidecar of a multicoloured Vespa!
I can't give an account of the other activities but Karin, Jan and I had a memorable time weaving through the tiny villages on our way to the ancient terraced rice fields at the top of the mountains. When we stopped briefly to watch some young wood carvers create some Garuda statues there was a short downpour. Fortunately the local warung (milk bar equivalent) could provide some local kopi (coffee). Made and the other drivers provided some impromptu music with a guitar and a bamboo pipe, which the local carver had perfected.
We dried the Vespa seats and drove off through the emerald green rice fields and the verdant jungle.
The appearance of the brightly coloured Vespas caused looks of incredulity, followed by many smiles and waves as we motored along with big smiles on our faces. A truly great way to see Balinese life.
After a few of us had a lovely soak in the pool we were ready to 'glam up' for the Farewell conference dinner at Locavore. This was quite an experience which everyone, even the foodies, really enjoyed. It is run by a Belgian chef and a Javanese chef who worked together in Europe before moving to Ubud to set up this unique restaurant. It is a degustation menu which has five courses which somehow turn into fifteen. The focus on intense flavors and interesting combinations resulted in many ooohs and aaaaahs. The drinks designed to accompany the courses are like mini cocktails and very alcoholic, which made for an interesting bus ride home! A truly memorable meal and highly recommended for anyone visiting Ubud.
Your slightly inebriated correspondent
Dianne
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