I've just (an hour ago) returned home to Amman, having completed a PDC at Al-Jawfa, near the Dead Sea in Jordan, with Geoff and Nadia Lawton. Although my "aha" moment came some years ago, and I'd been reading about permaculture principles since then, I feel that 72 intensive hours of study and discussion has well and truly changed the "lens" through which I view the world. My first design for a site neighbouring the farm on which the course was conducted was a terrifying and exhilerating experience, and I can't wait to try my hand at design again. (And, even better, put the design into action!) 

The PDC was an unforgettable experience - yes, there were tears, vomit and a few flies coming out of the compost loo today, but it was all absolutely worth it. I met some of the best people I've ever encountered, and feel hopeful about what I can contribute to the world. And that's a pretty cool feeling...