I can't remember clearly what I have been asking for 2015, in the beginning. But, I remember that 2015 is the year of answering answers and questions.
Resolutions are not really my thing. But, I did like to have a new hope of a new year.
Here are couple of points that I remembered wishing in 2014 for 2015.
1. 50 Books - Which is a BIG FAILURE. I only managed to finish under 10 books I guess.
2. Having a boyfriend - oh please so cliche, hahahaha... But yes, I did write it again as my resolution, though, it was clearly not a resolution. ;)
3. South Korea - postponed, but I got to transit there a couple of hours. I got a trip to Hong Kong and USA, what could I ask for?
4. Flying with Garuda, I managed it really really well!!!! Yeay, I got many good deals with this airlines. I think you do agree with me that Indonesia can be proud of Garuda Indonesia, it really shows the best hospitality and flying experience. I hate LION air, that's all.
5. Blogging, hm... kinda OK, kinda not OK I may say, just because I busy moving around, and travelling, but I had another new domain for review blog - 'Let's Talk'
6. Selfie with style. I think I got quiet a few nice selfies. I don't like storyless selfie. I put make up on, found a nice angle, and snapped. Why? I just want to play a bit with creativity.
In the middle of 2015, I felt like I forgot how to have a hope again. I was really into negativities. It was times around May and June when I moved to a new city. I was not excited at all. I did not notice that new things are indicating new hope. Fresh move. Long story short, I managed to be able to have hope again because questions are answered, prayers are heard. It is making me here right now typing this post to jot down hope once again.
2016, you are vague, but I am going to enjoy the ride once again.
Here are my resolutions to direct me in the right direction.
1. 60 KG once again. I am now 63 KG, it is not a big turning point to be able to 60 KG again, but I feel, if I can reach it once again, I am working well with consistency in exercising and eating well.
2. South Korea in November 2016. This is more towards financial management. I am working my way to be able to travel out of my own money. I want to be able to enjoy everything. Experience living (closely) like a Korean. :)
3. Be a good leader. I need to balance out myself, the playful me, the arrogance me, the stern me, the cheerful me. Everything needs in balance.
4. 20 Books once again, I really think that books are really important. Reading is a staple. I am trying to read not only novels this time. My bad habit is, I was really into literature; thus, if it is not beautiful written, I could leave it unfinished.
5. Living life fashionably and humbly. How it will work? I have no idea, let it be the secret pandora box. I only let the statement revolving as it should be. Hahahaha...
Ah 2016, I am pretty excited what it will turn out.
But, one thing never fails me...
the power of prayers.
do believe in that...
:)
Cheers.. let's enjoy few days of 2015, remembering back in the days, and building hope towards 2016 again...
These are some quotes that I collected randomly. I've written these quotes on my agenda from the beginning of 2015 to today. Below are quotes from everywhere, pinterest, my own thoughts, my dad, my mom.
My quotes of the year
1. Over thinking ruins you. Ruins the situation, twists things around, makes you worry and just makes everything worse that it actually is. 2. Give thanks even before you get it - papo
3. Travel far enough, you meet yourself - David Mitchel 4. Don't wait! The time will never be just right
5. When there is kindness, there is goodness, and then there's magic
6. Fabulously Living!
7. Fall in love with the process and the results will come 8. The Most effective way to it, is to do it! - Amelia Earhart
9. If life gives you lemos say thank you. Make lemonade, plant a lemon tree, spice up meals, learn to juggle, sell them - Alodita 10. Great things never comes from comfort zones 11. Beauty attracts the eyes but personality captures the heart 12. Let the intuition "ON" 13. Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving - Warren Buffet
14. A path is not simply for walking. Its purpose lies in moving forward and improving oneself. A path that fails to do is not a path - Jang Geu Rae, Misaeng 15. As long as you are not lying or stealing. Just go for it! - mambo
16. With everything that has happened to you, you can feel sorry for yourself or treat what has happened as a gift. Everything is either an opportunity to grow or an obstacle to keep you from growing. You get to choose - Dr. Wayne W Dyer 17. Dengan berbagi cerita, kita dapat berbagi inspirasi dengan orang lain - Andra Alodita
18. May the space between where I am and where I want to be inspire me
So, what's your favorite quote?
Mine is
Give thanks even before you got it - by my papo.
I actually listened to this first time when I was very little. Around 4 or 5 years old, and I heard it again when I was in my last year in college. And, I always kept it in my heart ever since.... And it is actually true. He told me to always give thanks even before I really got something that I really one. In other words, just be grateful of e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g.
and you will get the right one you need.
It is actually one of the 2015's lesson. Be grateful of everything and you would get the right answer of your questions, even better...
you'll just never know...
Oh it is so amusing for there were so many things happened in only one flight. Yes ONE FLIGHT.
:)
It might be more common to see this kind of situation if you are travelling in Indonesia (domestic flight). so here we go.
Firstly, it is amusing to see a girl, perhaps in her senior high school year brought so many boxes. I counted, it was 5 boxes including one looked like a full speaker (imagine a home theatre speaker). Obviously, she needed to pay for more extra baggage. Other than that, when I was on queue for checking in, I saw many people were kinda illiterate. It was written very clearly on te screen that those particular counters were opened for NO BAGGAGE Passengers only and still you would see people with trolley full of their big luggages went to those particular counters.
Secondly, again, it was written clearly "Please stand behind the yellow line." It was me who stands behind the yellow line, there's a guy behind me but his trolley was already besides me :) And of course when it was my turn, he also went front. Again, he was behind me but his luggages were besides me. I also carried a trolley and he needed to be back a little bit for me to put on the scales. So, I took conclusions; 1. He is color blinded
2. He likes to do some extra work like moving backward and forward.
3. Or maybe he was really in a rush because he needed to go to the toilet. LOL
Thirdly, I was in the waiting room. I read a book as usual and when I moved my head up from my book the only scene I saw was people with their phones. 80% of them, and it was only me who held a book besides a phone. There were only 4 types of people in the room. Majority was with their phone, second majority was just day-dreaming (doing nothing), one or two were with their laptops or tabs, and me who's the only one who bothered to read. I found it was quite an amusing scene.
Fourthly, and I thought it was the most amusing thing I saw on my trip. We were on the queue to board on the plane. It was not a new story to see two big FAT lines from two different directions (imagining an L shaped line), and then there's one man rushed came to te CENTER of the lines, 'shouted' in silence to be served first. He got served finely, but the funny thing was... he was actually with a group and he rushed to get all of them got trough the plane fast, unfortunately his group was wayyyyy behinddd the lineeee. And I was just laughing out loud in my heart. Oh poor man, his effort was useless because he ended up waiting the rest of his company. Lonely and looks like a fool hahahahaha. The moral of the story;
1. You should have communicated with your party before you did some cheated thing like cutting the line
2. Or, you just have to stand in line like everybody peacefully, your seat in the plane won't be taken unless you sit on the window seat. Which is actually my next amusing story.
Number five, it was pretttyyyy normal to see that your seat on the window side was taken already although that person knows very well that it was not his/her seat. So, I gave up my window seat, but the amusing part was the reason I heard from that person... with a wide smile she said.. " hhehehe, it was the same number anyway... hehehehe" hadeh bu... yes tht's the same number, but your husband (who sat on my seat) has to change his name temporarily becoming CHendani Budhi and I became ur husband's name. Ok, I let it go.
Number six, it is similarly like number four. When we got trough the gate, there was an airport crew who said clearly "number 16-30 please go trough the stairs". "NUmber 1-15 can go straight." Maybe, they don't put a sign because people here don't bother to read like the point in number 1 and number 2. Anyway, my seat was in 6F, so I went straight and I sat nicely on 6D instead. Then, the flight attendance was asking a man who just got into the plane with his little box.
FA: "Which number sir?"
The man: "Number 30" and I couldn't help my self not looking at the man. He needed to go all the way back and struggled a bit because people were coming from the back (his seat was near the end of the plane, BAH). hehehehehe I could only laugh. THe moral of the story;
Go through the procedures and you will just find your seat in 5 minutes, yes you need to go down and go up to the plane, but at least you don't need to go across all the passengers in reverse direction with your little box.
Number seven, I caught a girl looked at me amusingly because I was reading a book and I smiled while reading it. Perhaps, she never seen one strange girl with a slanted eyes reading in a plane and smiling. She might have thought that I was a bit crazy? Well, I did not mind since I saw her quiet an amusing girl as well. She was wearing earmuffs in the plane, and I believe the temperature is not even hitting 10 degrees. But, well... I am a strange one myself, so I have no right to judge eh? hahaha...
Lastly, amusing is not the right word, it was more an admirable.
The wife and husband who sat next to me were doing shalat during the plane. It was my first time seeing it, and it gained my respect to them even tho the husband took my seat lol. But, sincerely admire them. They did it silently and in rhythm. It was a beautiful scene.
I might have been in silence for a long time considering I lived alone, I rarely had someone that I could communicate, so all of these were caught on my attention. But, it made my trip had a story to begin with haha. It surely gave me a lot of laugh. At the same time, I felt saddened. That's the society becoming right now. Illiterate, ignorant, and can't live without their phone. Sad, but well... not many people got to experience an early introduction to reading like myself. So, I am not blaming anyone. I am typing this merely because it is an event happened in December, and oh I was so amused.
Btw, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
I am glad to be home for Christmas. In these two days, I had a conversation with my opa, slept with my papo, cuddling with Gassing and Echong, and went out with my super cousin. More to come of course.
I only have been living by myself for about 7 years now. Not too long compared to people I knew. However, I definitely feel changes within myself. I am not saying that this is good for many, but it is indeed a good one for me. Let me refresh my background a bit. I grew up as a single daughter who owns a maid (which is normal for Indonesian family). My house is generally big. I was barely doing any house chores during my school time. I spent more time on extra courses just like other Indonesian kids (around me of course).
In 2008, I was sent to Seattle for studying. Still, I lived with a host family for 2 and half years, but I started doing my own laundry, vacuumed my room, changed my bed sheet, and did little groceries for myself. Then now, started from 2013, I worked in another city, cooked for myself, paid some bills, and did all the maintenance on my own. I only rented a room, but the house I lived is quiet spacious with two communal kitchens and fridges. I paid my own electricities and did all the groceries.
So, what changes I've got aside from doing my laundry and change bed sheet of course?
1. I hate to eat alone outside.
Been a fan before, but now I hate it. I prefer to eat alone at my room watching Korean drama.
2. Catch on Details.
Living alone increases silence. However, my mind is sometimes busier. Everything is processed there; what to do, what people do, how they reach, butterflies flying earnestly every morning, how people react, the way they speak, I can catch on those things.
3. Planning, planning, planning.
Everything is planned before, from what I want to eat, how to get it, what I want to do in the next three weeks.
It is for the sake of time efficiency. Cant live without my planner. Though, I admit it that I sometimes not doing anything 100%, there were some modifications in the end. haha.
4. In contrast, I also am flexible.
I always have plan A, B, or C. if this is not working, there will be plan B. Maybe because all things are decided by me and done by me, so that way I am more flexible. Even in the group too. I know that it was not all about me, so I can blend in the group if I should; though, I can also go on my on.
5. Decision and Intuition.
Many decisions are coming out of intuition. Not saying that I am not using logic here, but oh that intuition is playing a big time, and it is easier to follow intuition when you live alone. I have no one to discuss immediately.
6. Me time is OK, but not so significantly good anymore haha ( Am I sound too old here). Too much me time is not a treasure anymore.
7. But oh yeah, having a hard time to go on a group which is purposeless. If they are asked; where to eat? the answer will be "up to you" and we ended up spending 1 hour talking less about the plan. I'd rather make an excuse and going home.
8. Not hesitate to go wherever I want to go. I only need to carry myself out and my wallet. Oh I wear my backpack to go grocerying btw. When I lived alone in Makassar, I was depended on driver's schedule, mom's schedule, and every other thing. Now, since I live alone, I can go wherever I want, I can decide whether I want to walk or drive. Not depending on anything. If it is sunny, walking. If it is raining, sleeping. as simple as that :)
9. Money organizer. Budgeting and budgeting. I am not the typical who's tight on budget or strain myself. I admit myself as a spender too. But, I always manage to live even for the last days of the month.
10. Living solo can be an advantage,it can contribute some negativities of course. The most negative thing of all, I become pickier to the people I hang out with. Looked as a loner. But, I am so blessed that I have had so many opportunities. Living alone of course increasing creativities and more independent.
The best outcome I got from living solo is I can hear myself more, I can see world on small trivia things, I can sense things differently. It is not working the same way with other people of course, but that's how it works for me.
Never afraid to live alone, you won't die. Sometime it will pull out some of your best and balance you out. You might be talkative before, and you could be someone who could listen to in the end. I am grateful of what is happening in my life. I think that is always the most important thing.
These are cities that I have lived for over 1 or 2 years (Malang still less than 1 year though). And wow! I think I have enough. Although, if only if, I meet someone who will become my husband, and he is stationed somewhere else, I will deliberately follow. But, from my own will? Makassar will be my city to settle down.
Minneapolis
Makassar and Minneapolis are always home. Yes, that Minneapolis. That minty Minneapolis which winter is too cruel to be true, but there's something about the city that made half of myself was left there. Seattle and Surabaya have similar effect on me. Both cities are big cities and I claimed myself not a big city girl. I enjoyed living there with all the hedonism; however, I struggled a bit at first for both cities. I adapted well in the end and was a bit sad when I needed to leave.
Maybe because I grew up in not so big city (at that time); thus, Malang is more suitable. This city actually has many elements that are suitable for me. The air is cooler, surrounded by mountains, many cute local coffee shops, and less malls :). I love the sun rise and sun sets. Those mountains are really playing a big deal. I am still an island kid in the heart. I miss salty damped air, I miss the sands, the waives, I miss the beach. But, cooler air? I definitely go for it.
Malang
My experience is not so extraordinary. I have met people who have lived abroad longer than I do. I only lived alone for about 7 years (with 1 and a half year in Makassar). However, I think I have enough. Hahaha. I think I have enough experience. I have no intention to move again.
Seattle
Talking about comparisons and favorites, I have things that I like in each cities. Obviously Seattle is the prettiest city. It has hilly roads, water front, many shops and asian food. I like the neighbourhood as well. Minneapolis on the other side was a bit dry haha and yes boring. The buildings are old and a bit sad; but colors of nature add it all. Every season is beautiful. Even the coldest winter. Snow all over the places, Christmas lights are out, it was truly a winter in wonderland. But, my favorite is Fall! Trees between the Mississippi rivers are so loveable. You can't just never get enough of Fall in Minnesota. I believe Still water is beautiful as well in Fall.
Surabaya is better compared to Jakarta in almost every aspect. The business wise, shopping wise, even the city wise. People are pretty nice, and it is so cleeeannn if you get what I mean. Indonesia has a problem with waste management, but this city is truthfully deserved to be called the cleanest city. It has parks everywhere too. Kudos for those.
Malang reminds me of Makassar 10 years ago hahahahaha. It also reminds me of Bandung. It has similar ambience. Mountains, cold, rains, and cute little cafes. Also, it reminds me of Minneapolis somehow haha. It has many old buildings, everywhere is almost walking distance. I walked a lot in here. I went to church for 20 minutes walk, went to the mall for grocery shopping for about 15 minutes walk. I walked to work of course.
Makassar. Now, it is growing. It is pretty crowded nowadays. Many hang out places. But, one thing that makes me love the city. Simply it is my home.
"Di mana-mana, rumah itu lebih baik"
Home is always better
Don't you agree?
I can't wait for going home this Christmas. Gassing and Echong ! wait for mommy
Akhirnya semua akan tiba pada suatu hari yang biasa Pada suatu ketika yang telah lama kita ketahui Apakah kau masih berbicara selembut dahulu? Memintaku minum susu dan tidur yang lelap? Sambil membenarkan letak leher kemejaku? Kabut tipis pun turun pelan-pelan di lembah kasih, lembah mendala wangi Kau dan aku tegak berdiri, melihat hutan-hutan yang menjadi suram, meresapi belaian angin menjadi dingin. Apakah kau membelaiku semesra dahulu Ketika kudekap kau, dekaplah lebih mesra, lebih dekat. Lampu-lampu berkelipan di Jakarta yang sepi, kota kita berdua, yang tua dan terlena dalam mimpinya. Kau dan aku berbicara tanpa kata, tanpa suara ketika malam yang basah menyelimuti Jakarta kita. Apakah kau masih berkata, kudengar derap jantungmu. Kita begitu berbeda dalam semua kecuali dalam cinta. Hari pun menjadi mala, kulihat semuanya menjadi muram, wajah-wajah yang tak kita enal berbicara dalam bahasa yang tidak kita mengerti, seperti kabut pagi ini. Manisku, aku akan jalan terus membawa kenangan-kenangan dan harapan bersama hidup yang begitu biru. Soe Hok Gie (17 Des 1942 - 16 Des 1969)
Desember adalah bulan yang sendu. Membuat mengingat yang lalu-lalu.
Hanya dari sebuah puisi...Agar pesan hati sampai...
I miss my mambo as simple as that.
Next month will be her 3 years of leaving.
I am just getting a feeling that now I always remember her not in vain but in jolly heart for what I remember is her goofy side.
That mambo can be goofy. Hehehehe.
Continuing to the previous post, I think it is legit to share about my travelling stories in 2015.
Started from January to the latest November's.
Travelling this year were so meaningful. Each one of them. I am honestly not an adventure seeker like hiking or diving person (well, if there's a chance, I will say... "why not" though). My travelling for this year was all between work and personal matter. I love each story of it. Tiap tempat punya ceritanya masing-masing. Each place has its own story. Most of them, I have shared in posts. I am just going to do a recap and maybe add a little 'feel' about it.
January 30th until the first week of February, I travelled for work. Roadshow. Education expo. I went to all cities; Bali, Bandung and Jakarta. Meaning, the whole week. I had so much fun. I got to meet friends, new partners, new fellow colleagues, get to know my colleagues more. Roadshow was always fun. Tiring but fun. This year I made a chance to meet with Mama Henny (my mom in Bali) and also Sara and Anton haha. Not to forget, I got to meet my AIS friends. That's when I got invited as ASTUMA - Asosiasi tukang makan. I love how people in group gather together, made a plan, and hung out. Sharing stories and fun. Check out the whole story here
All crew
with my AIS friends
Second week of February, I went home for a wedding which I would share to you later in this series. Long story short, I got reunited with a big family of Budhi. I met complete package of Budhi second generations (My dad's siblings), had little fun with them, and it was a pleasant wedding party. I love this side of my Budhi clan. There's no age barrier. Olds and Youngs hung out together, posed for goofy picture, played games, got punished and so on. We are all very closed to each other, to the extended family as well. Like my dad's cousins, even the children. I am so lucky that I have family like this. This particular trip has given me insight about 'marriage and career'. I have talked about it in here. Around that time, I have been assigned to be in charge of Malang office. And, I was also still single. People kept wishing that I would have my own wedding soon. Amen to that.
Budhi clan
March, I travelled to Hongkong for a sad story. My aunt, my mom's cousin, passed away. I have shared about it in here. It was a 72 hours trip including 6 hours in KLIA. I was literally at my grand uncle's place giving him a company. It was my first trip because of a funeral. I have never done it before. Fun fact, my first time to Hongkong was for this aunt's wedding, and then 16 years later, I came back for her funeral. It was a sad yet heartwarming journey. I did not really know my mom's extended family compared to my dad's, but the grand uncle was the only one left from my grand pa's siblings. I was really grateful that he and his wife recognized me. I got a chance to get to know my second cousins as well. It was nice. But yes, sad. The whole story can be found here
April, US Trip. One of the most anticipated trip ever. Best birthday gift. I reconciled with my past here, especially Chicago where I had a little sad story happened when I first went there. However, I dared to look back and made a peace with a painful past. And, I still love Chicago. Favorite city in the world!!! I even got a jackpot to visit Washington DC, to see Abraham Lincoln from my own eyes! Don't forget the first musical ever!
I have told in several posts about the whole trip
May, moved to Malang. I hate packing! that's all! haha. Moving to Malang made me state that I don't want to move city again, if I have to find an end, it would be in Makassar. No more adventuring like this. I have enough. I was at the point where I found it was more tiring to move than exciting. I was tired to adapt again. I lost hope. But, surprisingly, Malang has treated me pretty well.
June, I enjoy Ramadhan at Malang.
July, Going home for lebaran, trapped in Juanda again. Oh my fate. I am always lingered with vulcanic erruption. But, many good things happened because of this whole trap case. I could meet Cath2 again, I have promised her to stay at her house whenver I went to Surabaya, I could have a little luxury in Tunjungan Plaza, got a pair of jeans for me, and I made friends because of our mutual condition.
August, I went to Surabaya for another wedding; this time was the son of my dad's cousin. I knew most of his cousin especially the Mangitungs. I have known each one of them, and was an honor to meet them with their children and grand children. I am a family person. I love getting to know extended family. Exchanging short updates. If I were in the sims, my aspiration is 'family' hahaha. I enjoyed event like this.
Towards the end of August and early September, I went to Surabaya and Jakarta for work. Another education expo week. It was a short trip. In Surabaya, I had little reunion with fellow colleagues and partners. In Jakarta, I made it to meet my fellow Minnesotans (Indonesian students who studied at UofM). We finally could meet. Most of us came home for good. We shared odds about adapting back, about working environment, even society (oh please). We did share similar experience before, so it was a pleasant conversation. Looking at how we have similar vision as well.
September was the busiest, I only stayed in Malang for the whole month.
October, I went to Surabaya again for a sweet escape with my fellow 'orang gunung'. She is my cousin's cousin (get it?). We have grown up together and met again in Surabaya before she moved to another city. We both moved up to the mountains (different island), around the same time. We wanted to have a little city taste; thus, we agreed to meet again. Shopping like there was no tomorrow. We bought so much, we had fun, and bills piled up. hahaha but, it was worth it.
November, Jakarta - Bogor. You knew it already. I have posted in here. It was like a grand finale of the journey here. It was like a last stop to let myself really prepare for December when everything needs to be settled for the new year. I was really grateful for this journey beyond what I could ask. I found man answers to my prayers there. It was only 3 days 2 night journey but it gave a lot.
I can say that from January to now was like a red thread. Each travelling has been an ammunition for the next one. Each travelling has its own purpose. To refresh, to heal, to bound, to halt, to reconcile, to support.
Just like saying.
"Travel far enough, you'll meet yourself" - David Michael. I have found or reinvented my self piece by piece from this simple journey. For 2016, I have promised myself for some real adventure. I hope universe will hear my little prayer again. I will not hold back.
It has happened in November, but I include it as my second story of December Series because it has a significant impact on me. That particular event is the reason why I feel so excited and ready for December.
These past few days, you have seen none other things than this hashtag - #48HoursAway on my social media! Yes! I got too excited about this trip because it turned out to be.... a ultimate series of answers, a thanksgiving getaway, and surely a big reunion frenzy. It is all because of Mr. Anton again! Why on earth he got an idea to have "thanksgiving dinner" while we are in Indonesia. We don't celebrate thanksgiving in Indonesia. But, he did host this party. And I think only him could think something as ridiculous like this. Additionally, I also think I was a bit crazy to agree to this whole idea.
One fine day, there was a message via facebook messanger, a group message to be precised. It was about this whole gathering. From 8 people down to only 5 people who agree to meet. I did agree because I thought it was the chance for me to meet up with Sara and spend time in Bogor. We have been talking about meeting up for months. The chance were never come until that message came in. So, I grabbed it, said yes, found a ticket, and bam... I was in the plane ready for my weekend getaway. . FYI, Sara and Anton and I were united because of one odd thing; alcohol. But, don't get me wrong, we are a responsible drinker ;) and devoted Catholic as well.
Anyway... days after I told everybody else that I bought the ticket, Sara told me that Atay is getting married! Atay is one of "petinggi" of Mudika Seattle. Both me and Sara knew each other from Mudika. The wedding would be held on Friday 27th when I arrived. Initiative planning was we went to the holy matrimony because Sara was concerning about her 3 years old baby had to stay up late two consecutive nights for our 'thanksgiving dinner' would be held on the Saturday the 28th.
D-1 she told me that it was OK for us to go to the reception instead. It had a bigger chance to meet up with everybody else. Therefore, there we were greeted everybody. Had so much fun meeting familiar face once we were in Seattle. It's been about 5 or 6 years I haven't met them. The night went out and the morning came.
As a die hard fan of Dee, me and Sara decided to pay a visit to Filosofi Kopi, Melawai. Of course we visited a local coffee shop at Bogor called Imahnini gallery and coffee shop. I love that place! Vintage and cozy. Even the TV is still black and white, and it has a rustic piano which still could be played. Yeyeyeye. Had a little jam with Sara ( we were in the music group of Mudika for a while).
Then, we went to Melaway. To be honest with you, I think I would not go back there again. The ambience was a bit off, like everybody was in rush, the coffee was OK, but the churros was one of the best I would say.Well, the coffeeshop is very photogenic
Then, the night was coming. We arrived at Hang Lekir street just at the same time with the other party, Bejo. Gosh, I haven't met Bejo for 5 years. Anton btw I met by coincidence before, and me and Sara managed to meet him again earlier this year (story is here)
Proceed to the dinner, instead of turkey and pumpkin pie, we had ayam bakar, casserole, mie goreng, and kare ayam, don't forget rice and kerupuk of course. Desserts were chocolate pudding, banana bread, and crispy almond. And yes... booster.
Ah, that night was one of the happiest moments ever. Added as one of the high lights in my 2015 fanfare. It's been a while I haven't felt the joy of gathering with friends. I have been moving around too much, and only went out with a person or two. We had a lot of fun. We reminisced some old times, gave updates of each other, brought new member (spouse, brother, and kid), and had a lot of fun.
Do you know the feeling of meeting the right people in the right moment?
I want to say that I met them because I needed to meet them, the universe has made us to meet so. Ah.. I wish I really can express this well. Let me just use the words; impulsive and intuition. I hope this can lead you to the idea I am trying to share here. This trip was one of an impulsive action. I could say that it was lead by an intuition that I did not realize at first.
It turns out this journey has helped me to solve one little problem that I have. Sorry, but I think I have to add word in Bahasa for the sake of writing. Sadar nggak sadar, I have been struggling with one particular case that myself has no courage to really step in and solve it. Parts of myself knew the answer already. A guess. Maybe that's why I did not dare to even ask about it. I let it settled in the bottom of my consciousness. However, this whole trip has helped me to put a period in it. Case closed.
I've been thinking that the whole universe was in conspiracy. I knew from the beginning that this trip was no ordinary trip. Impulsive trip has its own charm. It turned out to be finding answers. It is indeed 'a series of answer.' Every event happened, out of what I have been wondering. I was asking myself when I would be in a wedding where I could meet friends that I haven't met before. You know that I kept moving around so sadly I got little wedding invitation from my circle because they knew it would be hard to me to travel. But hey, Atay got the jackpot (or I may say, I got the jackpot). I was asking myself when I could meet my fellow Mudika Seattle peeps, and hey... there was the wedding night. I was asking myself when I could go to Bogor, and you knew the answer already.
One last miracle, I also got a chance to meet my friend from Minneapolis at the very same night :)
How blessed I am
I am glad that this fragile heart has a strength to shout out, to be listened. I am glad that I chose to listen to it. To let it lead the way.
This is always fascinating. I am glad that my heart still has its ability to show me the right way just like before. Precisely, this year, I have so many events that was absurd but turned out to be 'I got what I needed'. It's been done.
I also realize one thing. My #48HoursAway trip is a thanksgiving trip.
Yes, I am grateful for this trip.
It is the first day of December, and I am planning to post a lot of posts this month. I just have a feel to celebrate the end of the year this way.
I love this month. Not only because I can get to go home to meet papo, gassing, echong, and others, but also it is time to take a deep breath and look back. How I reached everything I have. Looking at each month, what I gained, what I failed to do. Retelling of what I had been trough from the beginnign of the month towards the end. Of course, also thinking about what is it for the year a head. It is like a month to prepare for the new year. It is like a balancing mood.
December also means celebrations. Who is in for Christmas and New year party? Me! I always love to spend holiday at home because it will be full of singing and dancing just like the party should be. I always choose to be home for Christmas. I have celebrated christmas not with family before and believe me Christmas should be celebrated with family.
Ah... for a prologue,
Imagining that now I am typing this without any burden left. It is purely ready to contemplate the past and the future. To add a little sap; I put it as a 'currently' post.
Currently
1. have gained 4 kg in 4 years. I really want to go back to my skinny version. This is (surprise, surprise) will be my next year resolution.
2. My korean series are in halt, but I have series that I have been waiting for;
- bubblegum
- reply 1988
- six flying dragons
3. My favorite tune is INFINITY by One Direction. I am surprised to my self with this.
4. Still in love with Elmo, Stroberi, and Misaeng :)
5. Fully accepted my self being single for ultimately 26 years old ;). For this matter, I used to be a little bit embarrassed; however, I have met people who were in various relationship and they were saying that I am actually luck. Just to wait for the right one. So yeah... if people ask do I have any boyfriend? I will bravely answer.. you know the answer already ...
More to come ;)
And you have no idea how excited I am for this month.
Ketika semua telah tertulis,
Kau memberikan titik di tulisan ini menjadikan kisah ini milik kita berdua.
Kau rela mengambil bagian.
Kau rela menerima cerita ini di mana sebagiannya berdendang tentang kamu.
Hari sudah larut dan tulisan ini menjadi sebuah akhir.
Kita menyelesaikan cerita ini.
Kau membantuku.
Apa akhir dari cerita ini sudah menjadi tak penting lagi karena aku lebih menikmati prosesnya.
Aku bangga terhadap kita yang berani jujur terhadap hati.
Menuliskan kisah dan menetapkannya sebagai chapter terakhir membuatku lebih berani.
Berani dituntun oleh hati dan menjalaninya walaupun tahu akan akhirnya.
Sebuah kisah mencapai akhir, dan untuk itu terma kasih. Karena dengan begitu sebuah kisah baru siap untuk dimulai Dengan hati yang lebih lapang dan langkah yang lebih berani.
There are times, I dont want to see my phone because I am afraid of some bad news are coming.
I watch drama to forget about what i am thinking.
I force myself to work so I am looked normal.
I dont want to be disturbed when I am at home, but I am sick of being alone.
I like to be in my room, but longing for a company.
Then what should I do?
Endure it...
Since it is the world that is given to me.
Sometimes you take a road even though you know the end might be ugly.
Whoa, I haven't been really posting up about 'Currently' thingy as much as before eh?
It is nearly coming to the end of October. Not so long till Christmas time. Oh My, time comes and wooossshhh... flipping trough.Here goes again 'Currently' post. Just 5 things that currently are the cores of Chendani's life.
I am currently...
1. SICK started Thursday 13th. I went home and did not feel well and it continued till the next week and my body broke down eventually. I took 4 days off. Stayed home, Bed rest. Through those sick days, I survived my own. I took care of my own self. Cooked for myself, slept, cleaned the room, hahahaha. I think I can write a guide book of 'How to survive when you are sick and live alone"
2. super addicted to Kim Phil and Kwak Jin Eon. These two infamous winner of Superstar K6 has brought me to another level of all the K-pop thing. I love the combination of the two even though they are not officially a duo group. Jin Eon was the winner and Kim Phil was the runner up. Both have sung various songs together and I am craving for more. Kim Phil with his unique range, not a falsetto, a bit husky, rock and roll and combined with the super low sexy voice of JIn Eon. Can't ask for more. I have been watching Superstar K6 without ENG SUB T_T. Can;t fully understand it, but I can take a gist of it ;). I never really watched Superstar K before but I knew the winners and they were pretty good. Many of them are my fave; Ulala Session, Dickpunks, Eddie Kim, John Park, and Seo In Guk. These two have caught my heart dearly. Both have sung various songs about 'encourage' not just a simple lovey dovey song with rap like what we have from K-pop these days. I sincerely wish that both would be around for a loong loooooong timeee in this cruel industry.
3. watching too much of Korean drama hahaha... It is piling up. There were dramas that I wanted to watch because of one particular cast was on Misaeng for I want to see how they are outside all the misaeng thing. Some, I just wanted to watch based on dramabeans review. And I ended up not finish many of them. But, that's not stopping me to have the next list to watch
4. refreshing my 'favorite things' when I am feeling down. These past few days were quiet a torment. Being sick alone is never been easy. You just feel all sort of feelings. I end up try to come up with a ' solution' of course.
- watching misaeng, when I am feeling suffocated -
- doing laundry and clean the bathroom to clear up my mind -
- make up and take a selfie with style -
- back to Elmo and get all the cuteness overloaded -
- Immortal Songs 2 on Saturdays...-
- listening to my playlist; Let's walk a little (Jung In and Gary), Reminiscing (Jazztronik), Love Recipe (Clazziquai), Just get away, you deserve it (Sweet Sorrow), Anhyeondong (Sweet Sorrow), Lie, Lie, Lie (Lee Juck), Exhausted (Kwak Jin Eon, Yoon Jong Shin, and Kim Phil), and Don't Worry (Kwak Jin Eon and Kim Phil, originally by Deulgukhwa).
- writing is always... a therapy -
5. having a regular 'homesick' syndrome. I recognize its syndrome quickly now. It's coming shorter than before. It is coming in the third month or so. Hahaha... Don't ever think that I will not have homesick syndrome since I have moved so many time. The attack is still here. I am still feeling down, negative, and all the stuff, but I think I can handle it in a better way. I don't hesitate to cry and admit the fact that I am homesick because soon it will be gone.
Should I say that I am not excited of coming to the end of this year? Honestly, I don't want it end too soon. Another year, getting older, maybe same situation with upgraded problems, and all the busy schedules. I am strangely not really excited of a new year. Whoa... am I losing hope? or maybe am I one of those grown ups that just live lifelessly? However, I still love surprises that life gives. You just never know. What will happen. It tingles me thinking that maybe next year there will be another crazy adventure like trapped in the airport because of volcanic eruption or a spontaneous fun trip? I never know...
maybe?
I think I will just enjoy the process like I have always been doing...
I love anything about Korean.
It is obvious isn't it?
I like Korean food, I like Korean drama, I like Korean singer, and variety shows. But, I am still the 'odd' Chendani who prefers something that is out of the heat. Anti-mainstream? Not really! But, I guess... I always fell over a drama, singer, movie, or actors that are not so known by others. It is always me. It works the same way with other genres. I generally prefer Indonesian movies over Hollywood movies. Same with this whole K-wave thing. While others love Running Man, I love 2days and 1 night more. While others have watched "My Sassy Girl"and claimed it as the best Korean movie, I chose "Seducing Mr. Perfect" and "My Father" as the best Korean movie. Yes! Both are starred by Daniel Henney. No... I did not pick it because of Daniel Henney despite his super masculine look (Yes! I totally fell for him), but because those movies brought so much more about Korea to me.
I am just saying that I love Korea Wave with a different current than the others. I can say that I was a little bit late, love something that is not really common about it, and I love the food because of the food, not because of Korean drama or whatsoever. Nevertheless, I am still one of the victims of K-wave.
As a starter, Korean drama was just like a fresh start to begin the K-Wave journey. I think every person in my age agree that we fell for Hotelier and All About Eve. Jang Dong Gun and Bae Young Jun era everybody! However, I was not really crazy about them, I just acknowledged that those were good dramas.I was not instantly getting into Korean wave. Instead, my mom fell for it so much in early time. She was madly in love with Bae Young Jun. She even joined the fanclub and flew to South Korea for April Snow screening. HAhahaa, yes... my mambo did it.
Ever since she came back from Korea, we were more and more into Korean food. I loved the utensils. I started eating ramyeon in a pot just like in the Korean drama. The first real Korean food I tasted was in 2006, in Brisbane Australia. Oh yes... I have been enchanted by the authentic taste of the broths and fell for Kimchi even more.
I think Korean drama and Korean food brought me trough all the K-wave journey. Then, in 2008 or 2009, I encountered Korean movie called Seducing Mr. perfect - casts; Uhm Jung Hwa and Daniel Henney. I could not remember how I met with this movie. Gaaah. I was in love. First, Daniel Henney was too hot. Secondly, the story was fresh and fun. Lastly, I bought the soundtrack. They were delighted. It took me to a surprise that South Korea has jazz (Of course it has the genre you moron!). The song was amazing. It brought me to a singer named Alex who is in a band called Clazziquai. Everybody else may love Super Junior or Boa, but my first favorite Korean singer was Clazziquai, an electro pop slash jazz trio. I instantly downloaded the whole album (OST). Well, I like Princess Hours soundtrack as well, but I was really surprised hearing this song. I am basically a jazz lover, so I did not need any other reason to be in love with it.
Then, it was my Korean movies era. I watched so many Korean movies including My Father (Yes, Daniel Henney in it again). My most fave K-movie. It was a story about an adopted Korean child who seeks of his biological parents. Daniel Henney proved his emotional acting whilst I admitted how mellow Korean movie can be. I discovered a Happy Sad Ending term here. It was enough to make me cry, but not because of sadness. It was beyond words. That powerful. (you may also check My Son, Little Prince, harmony, and Miracle cell number 7).
There were more Korean movies similar to this one added to my fave list, but anyway I think I have watched both these movies many times and still liked it. Then, it came to me the Variety Show era where I started with "We Got Married." It was all Alex's fault. He was one of the members and he was too romantic. We Got Married was so dreamlike show. It made one male and female celebrities hung out together just like a married couple. It was like a cruel show to make us 'live like a dream.' haha It was too surreal. They acted like a real couple even though they were not closed at first. Anyway, I was one of those who immersed into the show up to season 2. I haven't seen We Got Married for 6 years now (Yes, the program is still running). That show has made me know more about K-pop. The theme musics were so nice. Then, I knew about Yurisangja, Linus Blanket, Sung Si Kyung, Shinhwa, and finally.... Sweet Sorrow!
I did not love Sweet Sorrow at first. I thought it was just a skinny male group dancing and singing, but I was so wrong! They are so great in harmonization. Acapella and jazz, my dynamic duo. I would just love anything when these two involved. They got both. Enough said.
Wait a minute! I thought that I just met them in We Got Married show, but nope... I actually have heard them wayyy before We Got Married. It was in Seducing Mr. Perfect OST. The ending song. I thought it was sang by Alex as well, but later I figured that it was sung by Sweet Sorrow!!!. It was a very ear-catchy jazz tune.
More and more Korean shows. X-Man, Love Letter, Family Outing, and even Running Man, but I think I was so into Korean variety show after I had a tv cable at home. We got KBS World. Mammamia, Immortal Songs 2, and the cutest of all was The Return of Superman. I could see why people nowadays love Korean show so much. From lovey dovey, food, trip, crazy game, and heartwarming emotion. They all have those in the show. They put it altogether finely. All the interactions are natural yet entertaining. Unlike Indonesian show nowadays. It just makes me sigh... Full of trashy conversation and one's weak point. It is just unhealthy to watch.
X-man
Living without TV, I am depending on streaming show. Every week I wait for Immortal Songs 2 and The Return of Superman new episode. Both are my ultimate favorite show. I haven't got bored seeing those two. Immortal Songs 2 as I have posted in my other blog, is a complete course of what Korean music world can show. Through it, I knew more about the past of Korean songs, I knew more about the ability of those musicians, and how fun they are in the studio. They teased each other, praised each other, and moved each other's heart trough their singing. Many re-discovery here. Moon Myung Jin and Ha Dong Qn found their place in the music industry again after a long absence.
Moon Myung Jin
I also found new face of Korean music. A fun Rock band - Rose Motel, A husky vocalist - Jo Jang Hyuk and the Male Bada. Not to mention, the sexy singer, JK Kim Dong Wook. I watched them in Immortal Songs 2, and I am freaking in love with them. That stage has had many things happened. Fun rendition from Ulala Session, a story telling from Ali, and many more. In short, I know more about Korean music. Additionally, I was introduced to Korean Musical actors and singers. South Korea has many adaption of Broadway - Rent. (Please check the Barbettes, Im Tae Kyung, and Mamammoo). Not to mention, I begun to know all the singers from the past as well. Names like Yoo Jae Ha, Kim Gun Mo, Lee Moon Sae, Pearl Sister, Deul guk hwa. Haha, Ah I just love this show. It makes me to be totally in love with Korean Music.
Deul guk hwa
And this year is my Korean Drama year I may claim. I have watched more dramas than the previous years. I can say my taste is a bit stirred because of MISAENG. It ruins everything. Hahaha, After Misaeng euphoria, I was really picky about drama that I watched. Sometimes, I left the show without finishing the first episode, some other time I jumped from episode 8 to the last episode for the ending sake. Dang it. However, indeed. Korean drama is so popular. They are really well made. Every TV production has their own thing. We have a high-fashioned complicated story or fun rom com from KBS, we have twisted and revenged base drama from SBS, we have medium tone drama from MBC, and well-crafted drama fram tvN. It is just so dynamic.
In the end... the main reason why I love South Korean shows because it is heartwarming. From Superman Returns, to singers and songs, to KPop Star hunt, to drama.
I bravely state that K-wave is a beautiful disaster for me. It is just a legitimate note that K-wave has moved me to the point where I can't move anymore. Overwhelmed.
I am a fan...
that's it.
I put a list of my favorites for several categories for fun...
Hotelier
Top 5 Favorite drama that I would like to re-watch
5. Hotelier - I love this show. And while others are crazy about Bae Yong Jun, I enjoy seeing Kim Seung Woo here hehehe
4. Triple - I love boys brotherhood!! as simple as that!
3. Oh My Ghostest - Hello Jo Jeong Seok!!
2. What's Up - my first encounter with Jo Jeong Seok and all those musical lyrics
1. Misaeng - Yes? YES!
Top 5 favorite actors that I would watch the drama or movie no matter what
5. Lee Gyeong Yeong - my latest discovery. This ajhussi knows how to act and how to maintain his glorious youth charismatic look.
4. Kim Myung Min - The guru of method acting
3. Lee Dong Wook - just because I think his smile is contagious and those long legs
2. Daniel Henny - OH PLEASE!
1. Jo Jeong Suk - good looking, good acting, good singing. What could I ask more?
Top favorite Singers that I would purchase the original album
5. Lee Juck - he's a good composer and his voice is so soothing!
4. Mammamoo - My favorite girl group indeed
3. Ulala Session - My favorite boyband!!
2. Jung In - Falling for her voice
1. SWEET SORROW! no need reason here ;)
Mamamoo
It is why I also hesitate to visit South Korea. Since I have known too much about it. Secretly, I feel a bit scared to go there hahaha...
However, one day... I must go there...
Top 5 things I want to experience there
5. Seeing Misaeng building and visit the film location, take a picture with the company id!
4. Eating jeon and drinking Mak geoli, eating chicken while drinking beer
3. CD hauls for sure, and maybe a little grocery cosmetic shopping
2. Experiencing staying in the duplex or visiting a university
1. Go to NAMI island!!
"One International"
Hahahaha, I surrender. I am K-wave overloaded. But, it is indeed fascinating how powerful the influence is.
And one day... for sure...
I will visit this source of wonderful storm in my life, South Korea.
Please check My latest blog; it will be about review - Let's Talk which will be updated biweekly.
