In my mid-20's, finished with University and sick of my suit and tie job, I yearned for a different sort of life experience away from where I grew up in Detroit. I had an opportunity to teach English at one of the largest language schools in Taiwan, and I signed a one year contract to go there and try it out. En route, my plane stopped in Los Angeles where I met my wife Kim. She was also going to the same school in Taiwan to teach, and pretty much from that point on we've stuck together.

One year in Taiwan turned into three, and by that time, Kim and I decided to get married. Kim had gone to high school in Jakarta, and had a particular affection for Bali. We hatched a plan to leave Taiwan, get hitched back home, and then move straight to Bali to start exporting all sorts of handmade stuff. At first things were rough for us, but by the end of our first year here we found our way. Now eight years later we have a fine business, a beautiful son, and no desire to return to the states. With all its advantages and disadvantages, Bali has become our home. Of course we go back from time to time so Grandma and Grandpa can see their grandchild (and to sell a few beads), but all year round we're here livin' our lives!

Kim recently finished her studies online at Norwich University and received her Masters in Diplomacy. She's currently working on a project to promote self-sustainable development in severely impoverished regions of Timor-Leste (formerly East Timor). And in her spare time, she volunteers at our son's school where she just finished spearheading the creation of the school library.

When I'm not managing my beady activities, I am an active member of Persatuan Boling Indonesia (The Indonesian 10-pin Bowling Association). I've been a serious bowler for most of my life, and I compete against the best bowlers in Indonesia just about every month at tournaments throughout the country.

Kim and I think of ourselves as down to earth; ordinary people that made extraordinary decisions. We want you to know that when you order from our company we appreciate it!

Matthew Cole
President
Indoexpo, Inc.