Mike's Home from Bali!

Mike got home from Bali, Indonesia last night. It's great to have him back. He looooooved Bali and said it was the most cultural place he's ever been. That's saying something since he lived in South America and Asia. He said that art is such a part of their lives - you see it everywhere. He was also amazed by the amount of ritual in the Balinese culture. Everyday families create an offering. They weave baskets and fill them with flowers and food and put them outside their homes and shops.

The group stayed in Ubud, which is the cultural center of Bali. The trip had an art focus, so he painted, made a batik t-shirt and had other art experiences. We didn't get to see his paintings, but they'll be displayed at school next week. This will be Mike's first art exhibit! Ha ha! They also saw Balinese dances, went to an active volcano and biked through the countryside. Not a bad week at work!

He brought home some presents from his trip and also saved some more for Christmas. That's a win-win for us! Presents now and presents later! You can get some really cool looking craft things in Bali. It's not really cultural, but Aidan is going to love that little guitar!

He got Brenna a wooden statue of 3 giraffes. It's not painted, so Brenna can paint it herself. She's painting it right now! Here's the before picture. I'll add the "after" picture when she's done!

I thought Aidan was getting home last night, but he gets home around 8:30 tonight. We can't wait to hear all about his trip to Thailand!