The next morning I got up early when Mr. Gusti was having his Bali coffee and admiring his beautiful garden. He saw me coming down the stone steps and nodded as though we'd never met. (I don't get him.) It was a bit early for the breakfast they serve as part of the $12 stay, but I wanted to bring a small gift. It was a black dry erase pen for their menu board. I know this would be a simple, yet very usable gift for them.

It was accepted with a nod, but later I saw Putu in the kitchen showing it off to the other employees. They all looked over at me and smiled. Putu gave me a thumbs up, and I knew I'd done the right thing.

This is a photo of a Gusti family member making a morning offering. You can see on her large tray are smaller little woven plates with flowers, spices, abit of rice, and of course inscense. She is sprinkling water on the offerings. She is also in the traditional/mandatory dress for going to a temple to make an offering. Even though this is just a masonary alter in the garden, she has put on a sarong, a lace top with a camisole underneath, and a ceremony sash. It is colorful yet simple. Offerings are made through out the day, usually by the women of the house.