The Nature and Temples Around Us

​

Just five minutes from our home lies a vast reservoir, its water spreading out like a quiet inland sea. From there, a web of canals carries life across the land — flowing gently through rice fields, feeding rivers, and continuing southward toward the coast whenever the land does not need more.

​

During the rainy season especially, this whole landscape seems to breathe.
The rice fields turn bright green.
The canals fill and shimmer.
And life finds its rhythm in water.

​

Surrounding the reservoir rise soft, rolling hills.
Their gentle curves and calm presence often remind me of the mountains of Norway — not as dramatic, but just as peaceful.
A familiar feeling, in a very different land.

​

Beyond the rice fields, large areas of rainforest still remain untouched.
This is where I like to walk with my dogs, beneath tall trees, past wild palms and birdsong, surrounded by deep green and quiet.
In many ways, this nature still feels pure — not shaped by humans, but simply allowed to exist.

​

Palm trees line the fields and the roads.
Water flows everywhere.
And the land seems endlessly alive.

​

But our surroundings are not only defined by nature.
Just as close are the beautiful Buddhist temples that stand at the heart of our village life.
Their roofs, colours and quiet presence are part of our everyday landscape.

​

This is where Peter attended his first year of kindergarten, at just three years old — with me carrying him there on my back each morning.
It is the place where village life begins for children, continues through ceremonies and festivals, and where families finally gather again in farewell for those who have passed on.

​

We feel deeply grateful to live here.
Not only because it is spectacular — but because it is peaceful, generous, and real.

​