Fond Memories From Indonesia, Part One: Java
Plumeria flowers bloom throughout the year in my Southern California neighborhood. The flowering tree native to Central America produces colorful five-peddled flowers that resemble stars with a scent that’s more delectable than a rose. For many people images of tropical beaches and lush mountain retreats arise in the subconscious mind when encountering their magical aroma. I, however, am transported back to a place where the trees, locally known as jepun, are used ceremoniously in every…