seru-meru!

Bon Anniversaire!

2011-11-21T09:31:00.001-08:00

Again, my birthday. Was very surprising because everything happened so lovely. I woke up in the morning and mom asked our maid to make Nasi Uduk for me. I really didn't know her intention when she insisted to buy Abon in the supermarket yesterday. It was for my Nasi Uduk! :)

In the office, our education department (SDM Iptek) bought us free lunch from D'Cost's Restaurant's delivery! Everyone related it to my birthday.. ha ha ha! We had lunch together in the hall. Then continued our meeting in Oen Pao. Again, I got free bakpao!

The Bagel's shop behind my office had a special promo today. Through its Twitter account, they announced a free bagel menu for anyone who's celebrating his birthday! I instantly follow them on twitter and mentioned them just to say "Hey! It's my birthday todaaay!". Then I went there after office hour , showed them my ID card and got one portion of Bacon Cheese and Egg!!! :))

The calories continued at home. I opened my fridge and found a big plate of birthday chocolate cake made by our bakers :) Mom and Dad ate them together and we took photos, something's really rare since 30 years ago, I guess.

My romantic boyfriend wrote on my facebook wall and inbox, a very sweet message and birthday wishes! And we chatted a little while he was still under the blanket (it was 1:15 at his local time) and 6:16 Jakarta time! He also posted me a cute picture on my fb wall. A big red heart with a big writing below it: I LOVE YOU!

I love you too, my dear all. :)

The Missing Piece

2011-09-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

Another song has struck me. This song is from Anggun, "Only Love".

Glory fades away when you realize that you've been searching for a missing piece. Walking around in bling-blings on your high heels won't make you relieved. But the blue sky, branches of tree, brings you back to what you seek.

I've been searching for a missing piece. And it's been more than two decades. I'm amazed how long the road I've been through. And how rich I've got for my experiences. How super my achievements are.

I hope it'll be ended with that missing piece.

Time Has Flown (again)

2011-09-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Here we go, the 30's. Last weekend I went to a reunion party of my junior high school. We haven't met each other for 16 years. I realize that I might be one of the few girls who are not married yet. And this fact has given me a feeling about how different we are now.

When I met the other girls, I was amazed to see how "old" they are :) I am not saying that they have wrinkles, but the way they behave was so different. They did not speak in a such manner they used to do. Many of them wore veil and brought their son or daughters. I did not recognize them, since they were so different 16 years ago.

Some of them don't work anymore, and live as a full housewife. It gave me a little twitch in my head. Is that what happens when you're married with children? Ten years ago I couldn't imagine about living without job or career. Five years ago I felt lucky of being able to expand my adventurous career journey and networks. One year ago I felt blessed for finally reaching the identity that I wanted.

I must say that in this phase I wanted to step into a new life called marriage. Being a housewife for my husband and a mom for my kids.Taking care of them with my whole maternal instinct, breast feeding my kids, cook them my best recipe (heheh wish me luck! I can't cook!), hug and cheer them up when they're sad, and be a part of the process when they grow. I don't want to repeat the same mistakes my parent did to me.

But it doesn't mean that I would stop what I've been doing. It's not about the job or career. It's more like the opportunity to implement my intellectual and skill for the society. I am glad I have a boyfriend who's proud of what I'm doing. It means he would support whatever I will do to express myself and being productive. In the other side, he is a family man whom I adore. He will balance me as parents. I can't imagine if I had a husband who' s too busy with himself and ignoring his children. I am a kid who undergone growing 'fatherless', and 'motherless'. I know how hurt it feels. I thank God for being survived.

I love you

2011-09-07T21:43:00.000-07:00

A forever friend you hang out with, a lover whom you share your hugs and kisses, a clown you can laugh with, a guard you are protected by, a leader you respect to, a policeman you are being watched by, a teacher you often ask to, a baby you take care of, a partner. That is you. I love you.

Me: The New Episode

2011-09-04T00:19:00.000-07:00

I am not exaggerating, but yes, here is the new me. A broken relationship, a new love, the struggle for Turkish scholarship and Ramadan have brought me to a new phase of life. I've changed my paradigm instantly and feel blessed for that.

Since July, if I may say "just a few days before Ramadan", I feel the need of certainty and security in life get stronger. Aside from the reality and difficulties that have been thwarting me, I came to the point that "there must be a certain way for a certainty". That was the moment when I decided to look back, and give my deepest bow to The Greatest Creator.

To Love a Woman

2011-08-22T04:24:00.000-07:00

All right, I'm getting a little bit romantic this moment :D

But no, I m telling you the truth. Bryan Adam knows this, and his song struck me in 1995 with its lyric. I was 15 that year, sitting on my aunt's couch in Bilthoven, while watching the video clip. These beautiful phrases formed the concept of being loved in my mind, and it works on me now.

"Hear every thought, see every dream
and give her wings if she wants to fly."

"She needs somebody to tell her
that it's gonna last forever."

I think Bryan Adam must be awarded Nobel for singing this phrase with that Spanish guitar :)

Ladies and Gentleman:

Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman
(Bryan Adams)

Watch the Video Clip Here

To really love a woman
To understand her - you gotta know her deep inside
Hear every thought - see every dream
N' give her wings - if she wants to fly
Then when you find yourself lyin' helpless in her arms
You know you really love a woman

When you love a woman then tell her
that she's really wanted
When you love a woman then tell her that she's the one
'cause she needs somebody to tell her
that it's gonna last forever
So tell me have you ever really
- really really ever loved a woman?

To really love a woman
Let her hold you -
till you know how she needs to be touched
You've gotta breathe her - really taste her
Till you can feel her in your blood
N' when you can see your unborn children in her eyes
You know you really love a woman

When you love a woman
then tell her that she's really wanted
When you love a woman then tell her that she's the one
'cause she needs somebody to tell her
that you'll always be together
So tell me have you ever really -
really really ever loved a woman?

You got to give her some faith - hold her tight
A little tenderness - you gotta treat her right
She will be there for you, takin' good care of you
Ya really gotta love your woman...

Then when you find yourself lyin' helpless in her arms
You know you really love a woman
When you love a woman you tell her
that she's really wanted
When you love a woman you tell her that she's the one
she needs somebody to tell her
that it's gonna last forever
So tell me have you ever really
- really really ever loved a woman?

Just tell me have you ever really,
really, really, ever loved a woman? You got to tell me
Just tell me have you ever really,
really, really, ever loved a woman?

***
(What if your boyfriend asked your in return, 'have you ever really loved a man?").. pfftt.. stupid question :D

Responsible

2011-08-06T05:03:00.000-07:00

I used to define "hardworking" as a money oriented phrase. I was wrong (again). Being a hard-worker won't make you rich. It'll make you free instead.

Free from desire and ambition, that's what I mean. No matter how hard I earned, I was never be able to enjoy what I had. It was always not enough.

Today, I realized that the ultimate goal of hardworking is to make you be responsible, and responsible people deserve a lot. That's the point.

Listen to God's Voice

2011-07-26T22:00:00.000-07:00

A friend told me her true story that slaps me on my face. Since I met her seven months ago, I put a little stigma on her as a 'bad girl'. She is a single mother, sloppy, and happy-go-lucky. I was wrong.

A Few months ago I got the first fact that her husband had passed away. But still, I don't feel any 'sense of loving' to her late husband. Last Friday, we spent 30 minutes for girls talk after dinner in Pepenero. And I got shocked.

She told me that she was 23 when she got married. She had known him for only 2 months, but their family forced them to marry soon. Then the marriage became a horror nightmare. Her husband was a psycho, he beat her when she was pregnant. They separated during her pregnancy, and when she gave birth, he asked for a divorce. Not long after that, he died because of heart attack.

"Listen to God's voice when you guys decide to marry," she said, "Be sensitive. Find His clues around you. I was wrong to ignore it."

I realize how weak my faith has been. I listened to my desire, to people's talk, to the magazine, but not to God. I followed too many theories which had led me no where. And I got nothing but disappointment.

"He's good and sexy, he's smart, he's rich, he's handsome, he has good career, etc". Those voices mislead me. Bullshit.

I am trying to examine to the most common and natural clues now.

Secret Path

2011-07-16T17:11:00.000-07:00

At this point, I fee like being reminded to that moment. A year ago, when I have tried everything, done everything, and lost many thing to reach what I want. God knows what's the best for me. He didn't open the door that I knocked on, but He opened another door I've never tried. Maybe I have to be ready for another surprises. And be optimistic for it.

When the puzzle I've been half-arranged was broken into pieces, God immediately showed me that I missed one part of it. He gave me the missing part, asked me to re-arrange the puzzle and...voila~! I got a different picture from what I dreamt before!

Mid Year

2011-07-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

Teach me more things, I said. In this limited time I need more explanations. I asked a lot of questions before and I am tired of asking "why"... and "how"..

After Office Night Craving

2011-07-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

We tried a new route on the way back home, and stopped at a Gas Station's in Pejaten because Ibet couldn't hold her bladder and needed to hit toilet. There is a little minimarket and I was about to buy some snacks. Instead of buying some crisps, I was attracted by a woman sitting at the entrance with her basket. She was selling Pecel, an Indonesian 'steamed salad' served with peanut sauce. Along with Pecel, there were also some fried 'tempe', 'bakwan', 'tofu', and also 'tempe bacem' and 'tahu bacem'. If you need some carbo, she will offer you 'ketupat', the rice cake.

Therefore we sat on the stairs casually and started to pick everything on the basket :) It was so relaxing and also fun. We used to spend our after office hour in a mall, or in a cozy restaurant. But sitting on the stairs, enjoying this friendly woman's 'Pecel' in her modesty, feels so great.

The price was also shocking! A portion of pecel, 1 fried tempe, 1 fried bakwan, and 1 tahu bacem is only Rp.7000 ! It is less than 1 USD! If you want some ketupat, it will be Rp.8500 because one ketupat costs Rp.1500. Every 3 fried snacks cost Rp.2000. We were full and happy :)

The woman's name is "Ibu Moah", a rare name for a Javanese, I guess. She is so gentle, typically Jogja people (or Solo? or Any Central Java people-whatever) for she always says "injih" whenever she agrees. She always sell her Pecel there every night, right after the sun sets.

She was afraid if this publicity would make her being forbidden to sell her Pecel in the future because she thinks "she has no legal" etc. Don't worry, madam, no one can forbidden you from earning your living...!

Finding Mr. Right

2011-07-10T21:10:00.000-07:00

picture from http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dP7YSXs7MJY/TYntNof3ZsI/AAAAAAAAABc/1OyvOys7OVg/s1600/mr-right_0.jpg

Okay, this gotta be a little bit serious. Finding Mr Right is like wandering around the city, looking for a best trouser that fits your butt. Ready-to-wear apparels are sometimes attractive, but they won't satisfy you until a series of trials and errors. You might find a catchy trendy one, but doesn't fit your size and hurts you. Best way is to identify your waist length, measure your size then give a chance to any trouser that fits your body. It'll last long.

There is someone who should have been but never will be..

2011-07-10T03:33:00.000-07:00

Some people live their dreams

Some people close their eyes

Some people's destiny

Passes by

There are no guarantees

There are no alibis

That's how our love must be

Don't ask why

Bridge:

It takes some time

God knows how long

I know that I can forget you

As soon as my heart stops breakin'

Anticipating

As soon as forever is through

I'll be over you

Remembering times gone by

Promises we once made

What are the reasons why

Nothing stays the same

Bridge:

There were the nights holding you close

Someday I'll try to forget them

Someday I'll be over you ..

(TOTO)

Emotional Communication

2011-07-02T18:33:00.000-07:00

Lately, I'm starting to distinguish people by their emotional communication quality. Those who are indifferent, no matter how awesome they are, are starting to be those whom I get rid of.

I might have been a very tolerant person before. I could stay cool with selfish people who come to me when they need me, and gone when they don't. But I think I can't be like that anymore. Long term relationship, can only be guaranteed by good communications. Both verbal and emotional.

Strong

2011-06-26T04:24:00.000-07:00

I enjoy Robbie William's songs during weekend. This boring and lonely weekend feels better with his lyrics. For some reasons I don't feel strong enough to face the days ahead. I know there are some tasks I must do, but I feel powerless. I can't manage my concentration to finish them all soon. I even feel nervous to let them stepping into my face. I need a leave. A long, long, and far away leave. If only I had much money to go. If only....

Now let's sing with Robbie. "STRONG".

My breath smells of a thousand fags

And when I'm drunk I dance like me Dad

I've started to dress a bit like him

Early morning when I wake up

I look like Kiss but without the make up

And that's a good line to take it to

The bridge

And you know and you know

Cos my life's a mess

And I'm trying to grow so before

I'm old I'll confess

You think that I'm strong you're wrong

You're wrong

I'll sing my song my song my song

My bed's full of takeaways and fantasies

Of easy lays

The pause button's broke on my video

And is this real cos I feel fake

Oprah Winfrey Ricki Lake

Teach me things I don't need to know

And you know and you know

Cos my life's a mess

And it's starting to show so before

I'm old I'll confess

You think that I'm strong you're wrong

You're wrong

I'll sing my song my song my song

If I did it all again I'd be a nun

The rain was never cold when I was young

I'm still young we're still young

Life's too short to be afraid

Step inside the sun

And you know and you know

Cos my life's a mess

And I'm trying to grow

And you know and you know

Cos my life's a mess

And I'm trying to grow

And you know and you know

Cos my life's a mess

And I'm trying to grow

You think that I'm strong you're wrong

You're wrong

I'll sing my song my song my song

You think that I'm strong you're wrong

You're wrong

I'll sing my song my song my song

Life's too short to be afraid

So take a pill to numb the pain

You don't have to take the blame

Life's too short to be afraid

So take a pill to numb the pain

You don't have to take the blame

Life's too short to be afraid

So take a pill to numb the pain

You don't have to take the blame

Sanctuary

2011-06-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

I am looking for a sanctuary. I am feeling not so good. It's 2,5 month before the announcement and I feel a bit nervous. To be honest, it's like my last try. I don't know what's gonna be my second plan after this. I just know that I don't wanna stay here anymore. I need a new phase.

They say the spell that he was under the lightning and the
thunder knew that someone had to stop the rain

Run away, run away from the pain yeah, yeah yeah yeah
(Janie's Got a Gun, Aerosmith)

.....

The PMS Diary

2011-06-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

Admit it. Estrogen and progesterone don't work well together on PMS and period. They make your thought scattered, one topic to another. You can't arrange them into a hierarchical priority topics. What happen is that the bad topic is always being put on the top. For no reason, you NEVER KNOW WHY.

It's gonna be a good idea: let's take notes on every "hot topic" that arises each month, and analyze the pattern :D For example, how many percent is the "love" topic, "family" topic, and so on. I have an assumption that the topic which becomes the top priority while we're having period is actually the hidden anxiety in our subconsciousness.

Why hidden anxiety should be taken into account? Dunno :) I just think it's interesting!

No Signal

2011-06-13T19:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a month or more. I feel like letting myself alone. There's a bit loneliness, yet I feel comfort. I feel free, and easier to move. I can enjoy my day with anything I like - by mostly - shopping!

Almost three years being physically single has made me so emotionally independent. Although, in the same way, I forgot how to read men's mind :) That's how I feel when I misinterpreted the signals from some guys whom I met. Or is it because the men I met were mostly diplomats, who are professionally disallowed to express their personal interests? I dunno. I just feel like my radar is running out of its ability to catch pheromone signals :)

Dondurma, Can You Wait for a While?

2011-06-05T06:40:00.000-07:00

It's June already. 3 months to September. I suddenly feel awkward while joining our office's retreat at Tanjung Lesung. We were happy, a little awkward in the beginning but soon turned to be fun! I felt the togetherness during the fun games session that lasted until it ends. But when I realized what I've been expecting to come on September, I felt that this togetherness might not be long.

We are expecting a field project at several places in Indonesia, in which I could be involved. But the fact that the Scholarship announcement will be held on September the middle, I can sense that I am running out of time.

Suddenly I want to visit many places in Indonesia before I leave. I want to dive in Tidung, Bira, or Sepa island. I want to fly to Raja Ampat. I wanna see the waterfalls in West Java. I wanna go to Tanjung Karang beach in Palu. I have 3 months left. I hope I'll make it.

Single or not to be Single

2011-04-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

Heheh love this title :D

I've just read a blog of someone who is proud to be single. Or, yeah, prolly got confused but then decided to be proud of being single. I'm not gonna judge her for her choice, but I guess the only consistent woman who is proud being single is my auntie. 70ish, single, and consistent.

Why did I say that? 'Coz 'single women wannabe' are always trapped in their unstable emotion. You may find them in an office, where they're being employed for decades, as a person who always in a war with others. They are known as selfish, arrogant, yet sensitive and attention-seekers. They can roar showing off their authority, but when they feel like being left out - they cry.

They are stranded and trapped in ambition of being the best. However, they never know why they have to pursue it. Prolly they just want to compensate their loneliness.

I used to live single for such a long time, happy with my singleness but worried for my loneliness. Busy with unknown ambition, lost in a bad-tempered attitude then ended up being lonely. If I remember those days, I m so grateful that I've passed the days of being "confused".

I feel my life is light and easier now, happy with achievements I got (not "made", coz I just let them come themselves to me), friends around me, and opportunities that politely knock on my door. Love and relationship are complicated game, but once you get the right card, you may control them.

I am easily saying now, that I want to get married and raise a dearly family. Dream job can wait, but the opportunity of raising your own kids is limited.

Some women are too afraid of marriage. Usually, they have a trauma back then, when they experienced a divorce. Or, they're too afraid of loosing their liberty. They were raised in a circumstance where women are strictly forbidden to speak. These fears create paradigm that marriage is an enemy for freedom.

I personally choose to achieve both my freedom of speech as well as marriage. By working hard and use my rational choice, I seek for the top of my achievement, be proud of whatever I can get, and be grateful. Meanwhile, a romantic relationship won't come if I don't cultivate my interpersonal skill. Positive reputation among the people around you is essential. However, good reputation comes from a peaceful heart. Your personality represents your inner side. In a nutshell, I try to balance my own ambition by letting my glass half filled. You can't have everything in basket. Give others a space.

Some of my single friends say that they haven't meet their Mr Right. I dunno what Mr Right is, but choosing a husband is like doing an investment. You need a rational choice, because he'll live with you till you die. There's also a risk to be considered but no one's perfect. All you need is a brave heart to start the business. Invest, control the ups and down, and manage the risk.

As long as I know, 'you'll get what you give'. How people treat you depends on how you behave. If you protect yourself, you won't be harmed. If you hurt people, they will hurt you in return.

For those who decide to be single like my aunt, consistency is a must. I'm proud of her for enjoying her single life without complaining till now. She faces life bravely and independently. But I must say that being single does make her self-centered and a bit anti-social. That's the consequences she must face.

Well, this year, I confess that I don't wanna be single forever :)

Rose of Versailles

2011-04-03T05:01:00.000-07:00

This used to be one of my favorite comic when I was a teenager, after spending my childhood with the European comics. Compared to the other japanese girl-comic, Rose of Versailles hooked me with its historical, yet controversial story.

Oscar Francois de Jarjayes, the hero in this comic, is a young girl who was raised a man. She ought to be the successor of her father, a commander of the French Royal Guard. Struggling with a dilemma between her responsibility as the Royal family's guard and her sympathy to the revolutionists, her life was full of glory and agony at the same time.

As a teenager, this controversial story between morality and immorality must be very 'romantic'. I agree that the bisexuality and the political issue in the story is not a consumption for someone whose psychology is not stable. Teenager, whose thought is still blended between rationality and irrationality, could be easily driven by the idea of abnormal sexual orientation. For those who are more stable but family is facing hard times or parents are divorce , this comic could emphasize whatever paradigms occur in the teenager's mind.

When I was young, Oscar's personality amazed me. Feeling different with my female peers, I found a justification of my boyish-masculine personality in Oscar. Even my ideal man is represented in Andre, Oscar's true love. Andre was the grandson of The Jarjayes family's servant, lived as Oscar's childhood friend and be her best friend and personal adjutant till they both grown up. .

Some points in the plot came into reality. I visited Marie Antoinette's childhood palace in Austria, the Schonbrunn palace in 1999. My job now is related to politics, diplomacy, and the government.

However, I took some positive values from this comic. The idea of "dignity", "egalitarianism", "braveness", "hardworking to success" and "friendship" had emphasized what my parents had thought me.

I also read Ryoko Ikeda's other comics, The Window of Orpheus. This comic had lead me to take another piano lesson in Jakarta Conservatory then had my recital twice! ^_^ (to be continued)

Sate Padang Ajo Ramon.. LAMAK BANA!

2011-03-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

Last night I eventually fulfilled my friend, Ibet's longing for Sate Padang"Ajo Ramon". She's been asking me to drop by at Pasar Santa everytime we go home from work and I refuse, due to the traffic.

The stall was located in the parking lot of Pasar Santa, the traditional market, in South Jakarta. It opens in the afternoon until midnight. Like any other satay stalls, it is constructed by a such simple tent covered by plastic sheeting and banners.

The seller is preparing the sauce, while his assistant is grilling the satays. Some ketupat (rice cake) are hanging on the cart's puncheon.

We were impressed by the scrumptious taste... Omg...! As we hit the satay, the beef juice melted in our mouth, mixed with the spicy seasoning of the sauce! No bitter tasted as we found in the other Sate Padang stalls we visited before!

We ordered a half portion for each, contains with five skewers of satay and some ketupat (rice cake) 'coz we know we're fat already.. he he he :p

Great Sate Padang always has a great sauce. And that's what we got from Sate Padang Ajo Ramos. It is made from the mixture of beef stock and rice flour, added with other seasonings like onion, garlic, pepper, chili, coriander, caraway, and some roots like galangal, ginger, and lemon grass. Sometimes they added mashed peanuts inside. They pour some crispy onions as the finishing touch. You can see the stock's shiny texture from the picture above and let me tell you: it tastes good!

This makes Sate Padang can be eaten in various way. When you're finished with the beef (some skewers also contains with heart, tongue or intestine) and you don't have more ketupat, keep enjoying your Sate Padang by slurping the sauce with kerupuk kulit, the crackers made from cow's skin.

The nice couple beside us are enjoying their kerupuk kulit

hurmmm dip it deep, soak it yummy!!!

The crackers baskets are available on every table!

Beside kerupuk kulit, you may eat your Sate Padang with keripik singkong balado, crisps made from cassava and chili. Both crackers will make you addicted, trust me!

One full portion of Sate Padang costs Rp.15.000,-, while the half portion costs Rp. 8000,-. All the crackers cost Rp. 3000. Drinks like hot tea, iced tea, mineral water or bottle tea are available in a normal price. Ajo Ramon also offers catering service.

After 5 days working, I feel pampered with the yummy food I tasted last night :) Life is good!

Congrats, Congrats!

2011-03-10T21:17:00.000-08:00

I missed out a good news :)
My former colleague, Nurul has got her dream job! Lookin at her Facebook wall, I raised a big smile reading the word "UNHCR" at her "work at" section. What a great achievement! I remember when she told me that she's craving for a career in the UN, aside from her anxiety of being single and hasn't found a guy yet :) I hope this dream job will lead to another achievement, in a personal basis :) Congratulation, Nurul!

Life, Death, and Cancer

2010-12-10T01:57:00.000-08:00

Is it a jinx?

Within this month, I've heard at least 5-6 people who are suffered from cancer. Not to mention Mrs Ainun Habibie who died several months ago. Let's say:

- My friend's cousin who got a cancer in his stomach (could it be on his liver? or pancreas? or duodenum?) but he has been consuming chemotherapy pills - I hope he will be healed. Amen;
- Rachmatsyah Bungamayang, Fauziah's brother who died last month caused by cancer on his duodenum;
- Desziana Machmud, Asmudjo's dearest wife who has been suffering from breast cancer since 2 years ago and now the cancer has spread over her thigh bone marrow;
- Juni Leonardy, Suci's best friend, who got her symptom only a week before she died last Monday. She was being condemned to 4th stadium of cancer in her womb. She wrote many messages on her FB wall. Two days before she died she wrote "I can't sleep... I can't sleep.." twice. A week before her death she wrote "When a Father takes the child by the hand, He would take the mother by the heart";
- Norvan, a cartoonist, Ojie and Nida's best friend, who were dying because of cancer in his pancreas two-three days ago, and yesterday he passed away.

What is this? Cancer? Death?
The deaths of these young people (24 to 40 years old) disturbs me. Life is so short. And when you die, you don't bring your Macbook to your tomb. Not even your iPad, your car, your Black Berry, nothing. None. I feel relieved when I realize it. Suddenly the sadness of losing my Macbook just gone away. The fear of being penniless disappears. The fear of not possessing anything in my life doesn't come. At this point, I thank God that life is not eternal. Realizing that life is short has urged me to do more in a positive way. I wish I had more time to correct myself, and improve my social responsibility.

Cancer.
What happen to these young people? Why do they suffer from cancer in their early age? I accused today's lifestyle as the cause of it : preservatives on food and drinks, cigarette, drugs, pollutions, and stress. Or maybe it's just God who want's to reduce the population of men on earth?

It's My Birthday Again!!! :)

2010-11-22T09:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my birthday!
I don't know but I'm so happy!

Saturday midnight, I got so many birthday messages on my FB wall saying happy birthday! I got blackberry messages too from my dearest friends.... and of course, my sweetie!

Monday morning, I got a surprising cake from my colleagues, and I love it when they came to my desk with glowing candles singing happy birthday :) It's like in the movie :)

By the way, I feel more ready for my future. It's like.. "go on Dewi, this is it! This is the time!".

Tears in Heaven

2010-10-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

My friend's grandma passed away last Monday, 21:39 GMT+7 Jakarta time. That should be 16:39 Ankara time, sometime around Ashar prayer time. The tears immediately dropped from my eyes, showering my cheeks.

I've never met her. I've never spoke to her. I dunno how she looks before my friend sent me her dying picture, 2 days before she left us. But ever since he mentioned her within our prior chat in February 2009, I know that she's a beloved person. I remember that time, I was in Enna's studio, working on my illustration job, and he was in his prior office. "LOL grandma's here visiting me in office!" that's what he said. I laughed, imagining grandma comes to his office, drink tea, and they go together to the hospital for her routine check up. "She's a very funny grandma!" that's what he told me.

Every time the topic comes to grandma, he becomes energetic and sincere. I could feel a true, unconditional love, and a warmed-heart energy derived from him. In my opinion, she is the only one with whom he can find a comfort in the family.

Also in 2009, grandma had her first accident. She fell from the taxi and had her bone broken. It was him who take care of her during the post-injury. "I am in grandma's house!" that's what he told me. "She's so little you know, I have to take care of her." November 2009 on my birthday night, I called him by phone for a surprise and it was his grandma who told him that his cellphone's ringing.

That time, I felt a deep loving heart from this funny un-serious guy. An eccentric guy who impressed me 15 years ago with his poems about dragon and knight, and almost made me fainted with his long pink wig before on a concert in Istanbul.

A few days before Eid, after laughing at me for what I did on Ramadan (fasting of course!), he left the web cam to visit his grandma. "I am gonna visit grandma. I wanna buy her something for Bayram. Meat and chocolates. I love her." And I saw a longing in his eyes.

Until one day I saw a status on his FB account. "Car accident."

I asked him through blackberry, was it him who got a car crash. But then he replied "No, it's grandma. She is in comma now" and then he told me about how grandma was hit, when, and how was her condition. I was shocked and I knew it must be something big for him. He was so emotional as well.

I sent him messages every day, although I know he might be busy with hospital, etc. I wanted to know how the progress was going. Then finally he said that grandma will have an operation on Monday. She was wake up on Sunday and he talked to her. I was in Sour Sally when he message me "She talks to me. I tell her about your wish and she welcomed it." Then I asked him to send me her pic. It was the first and last pic of her that I have.

Monday, I asked him in the afternoon about the operation. "It's already started, I guess" he said first. But then when Jakarta was hit by a heavy thundering heavy rain at night, I asked him again "How is the surgery?". Then he replied, "grandma died. I just got the message."

And I was shocked in grief. My tears were falling on my face. I tried to console him but I cried myself. I felt sorry, really sorry for not being able to meet her in person.

He took care of everything, from the hospital to the funeral. He even buried her by his hands himself. I caught a glimpse of what he's done. "Did you pray for the dead corp?" He said "of course!". Hmm.. somebody who said that he doesn't need God and always laughs at me if I do anything related to religion was in the mosque, praying for his beloved. Sounds touchy ;)

Death always makes me cry, I dunno why. That's what I felt when attending Mrs Ainun's funeral. My tears are not the representation of sympathy to the abandoned relatives, but it represents my regret of not being able to interact with the dead person anymore. I feel sorry for not being intense on sharing love.

A song from Eric Clapton makes everything becomes more emotional,

Would you know my name If I saw you in heaven? 
Would it be the same If I saw you in heaven?
I must be strong And carry on, 
'Cause I know I don't belong 
Here in heaven.

Recharged

2010-10-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

I'm off today. I told my boss that I need a rest. Well, after three days suffering from the heavy rain, extreme weather and the insanity of Jakarta traffic, I woke up in the morning with headache and stiffed back. I couldn't even think.

Honestly, one day off is so much relieving. Today I enjoy my day by watching two films: Post Grad, and 500 Days of Summer. The first movie is a teenage drama-comedy, it speaks about a girl with an ambition of pursuing her goals in life but then she gives up and back to her beloved guy. The second film is quiet a good one. Pretty mature, it is not a love story, yet a story of love. My pen friend Kerem has mentioned me about this film and I agree with him to rank it as a full-five-stars movie!

Not to mention the actor and actress, the way they bring the story by such a plot, this is a film of reality. You never know who's gonna be your destiny. You love her so much, but she doesn't love you. You never expected her but she comes to you. I think teenagers have to watch this.

Do these films give me a whack on my head? Heheh... guess so. I become more relaxed, not trying to push everything hard in life. What Ryden's dad said in Post Grad is quiet the same with what 500 Days have told: "There is no rule".

I just remember a story about Labyrinth. Once upon a time, an Arab King was left in a huge labyrinth walls in Babylonia by the Babylon King. He recites prayer, tried to concentrated, followed his instinct, and then he successfully found the exit gate. He admitted the good building developed by the Babylons. In the next day, he kidnapped the Babylon King, and left him alone in the endless desert of Arabia. "This is our labyrinth. No walls, nothing on it. Good luck, my friend!" said the Arab King.

Geezh, how time has flown away before me, and I survived :)

Stop Insisting, don't Stop Believing!

2010-10-16T20:07:00.000-07:00

Hehehe.. I lost my weight. Three months ago it was 63,5 kg. Today it's 57 kg! Yaaaaay!!!

I started by going to an acupuncturist whom my friend used to visit. I got two acupuncture sessions for 15 minutes each. During the one week interval, I consumed one slimming pill a day. I lost 1,5 kg in the first week. After two weeks consuming the pills and having the acupuncture session for twice, I stop the method and try to continue my new eating pattern.

The needles and the pills only helped my brain to stop feeling "hungry". I can't depend on them all the time, for diet pills will cause bad effect if they're consumed for a long period of time.

I control my diet by calculating my needed calories. There are websites that can help you to calculate it. Then I just follow it, and make sure my everyday meals don't exceed the limit.

I change my old paradigm. I find some facts about nutrition, health, and how the body responds the food we take. I visit my friend's mother in the hospital who got a stroke. Those facts help me in choosing what I eat carefully. I even stop eating packaged and junk food. I know they use preservatives and I don't want those 'fake' freshness entering my body.

I thank God that fresh foods are easy to find around my office. Warteg foods are usually fresh and home-made. They are cheap too! For USD 1, I can have a plate of rice, one big fish and a portion of fresh vegetables. All of them contains 300-330 calories. That's enough and yummy too!

Another method is by changing my breakfast menu. I used to grab a slice of bread with chocolate paste. Now I enjoy oatmeal porridge which is yummy too. I thank God I am not like other people who hates oatmeal. I love the taste! Oatmeal contains good carbohydrate and lots of fiber. It suppresses hunger until lunch time comes.

My motivations in loosing weight and being slim are typical: guys (woohoo!), long lasting beauty, and then long lasting healthy body. Being slim gives me more freedom in wearing anything I like too!

Therefore, I enjoy this diet. It's not hard and I don't feel obsessive of being slim. I can still enjoy my meals and snacks. I just calculate my intake calories everyday and control them!

Difficult People

2010-06-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

"How do you deal with difficult people?"

I was asked with this question in an interview. For some people, the answer would be "I would ignore them" or "I'll avoid any friction with them" etc. Unfortunately, no matter how hard I try to stay away from this kind of people, they are always around me!

Difficult people tend to create problems and conflicts with others where ever they are. One thing difficult people never know is that they make other people feel unpleasant. And this is their major problem.

When people were offended by you, sometimes they don't tell you. They create negative image about you behind your back, and spread it wide to kill your credibility. This counterattack has a more dangerous and longer effect. When someone is labeled as a public enemy, life's gonna be hard for him. He will be thwarted in every attempt he does in his career, business, etc.

I've found some people like this in almost every occasion. I can see their struggle in achieving things, despite the difficulties they face with the "public enemy" label. I salute them for their toughness, but I regret for their unlucky position.

The problem is: if they don't know that they have made other people feel unpleasant, who is the one who should have told them not to do such things?

Children are raised to copy their authority figure and are told to obey them. When the authority figure (parents) teaches good things, children will copy and believe that everything that has been taught to them comes from a reliable source: their parents. Problem appears when parents don't give positive examples. Children will copy this attitude because of the "reliable source" reason, but when they grow up and accept public's refusal against them they will face a double problem: a reaction against public's treatment and a dilemma toward their beliefs.

I'd like to say that "difficult people" are only "people with difficulties", or "people who lives in a difficult situation."

I remember when I answer that question in the interview, "I would try to understand them, show them sympathy, and be their friends."

Horny City

2010-06-09T02:32:00.000-07:00

Don't get me wrong. I'm not talking about anything erotic or porn-related thingy. I'm talking about a city with complex traffic problem. The amount of private cars and motorcycle is increasing, while city roads and public space are limited. Tell me how would you manage this situation?

It's 5 pm and I'm listening to a terrible concert of car horns outside...

Leader

2010-05-15T17:44:00.000-07:00

Born as a leader, lives as a student of life. I believe that's me. People say I have that sense of leadership, even though I enjoy being a follower and don't have to think about lots of things. In the mean time, the drive for being a natural-born leader is increasing in me through the process of being mature. I've been as the head of student council, the chief of our highs school marching band's club, and one of the founder of a youth initiative. The experience of being someone on top doesn't make me credible enough to be a leader. I believe that the process of knowing ourselves and the skill of communication will boost our competency as a leader.

Some leaders lead with their dictatorship to bound their subordinates. But they got lack of sympathy. The others lead with their family-style but got lack of respect, even lack of control. These bring a conclusion that being a leader is a learning process.

Time to Re-navigate

2010-05-08T05:21:00.000-07:00

"It's saturday and I'm working. MAN!"

A short message appeared on my mobile screen while I was having my body treatment. She's been working there for 5 years, my dearest friend, and she hasn't been posted yet (except for the 3 months internship one in Paris). Everyday seems like monday, no raised salary but she has to work, work, and work. She's been waiting for her posting. But until now, she's still here and she has no time for romance nor private life.

I think it's time for her to move on. When job turns to be a monster and you loose your rights as a human... better you re-navigate your journey.

I did my first move in 2004. I left advertising and joined an NGO as a volunteer. Then my second move was in 2008. I left my friends and community and got an opportunity to work in Goethe Institut Indonesia. Then in 2009, I left art and culture and started to get involved with communications, political science and international relations.

As a communication officer, I can be involved with various people and occasions, various opportunities. Moreover, as a project officer who works on media literacy and peace building program, I'm getting closer to my goal.

Next year would be decisive. I am pretty excited for this, coz I am gonna do another movement in my life! :)

Our Past Are Forgiven

2010-04-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I popped out to Kodam Park for jogging with my friend. We talked when we walked, and the topic was about office life. Emotional and impulsive bosses, betrayers, opportunists, etc. At the end of the conversation, we both agreed that our past have really thought us about how to be strong in handling any kind of situation. Including facing difficult people.

It is a bless that we have passed our past bravely. Yes, we have scars, but we are over them. These scars help us as problem scanners and measurers, alarms, analyzing machines, and problem solvers.

My past is forgiven.

Lucky

2010-04-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

It's been three months and I'll finish my probation period in this office. Within a week, I'll be assigned as a full time employee! Hmm! :)

Me love surprises. But 2010 has more surprises!

Two years ago I was an under achiever. Three months ago I was penniless. I lived by the miracles. Now I'm an Officer in Program and Communication division, and Project Officer in a nation-wide program in the same time. Hm, that's a twice in a row! :)

Recently I read a blog belongs to a 40 year old woman who's still pursuing her dream. Meaning, she - although already has 2 kids and a nice job - is still far from what she hopes to achieve.

I must thank God for being not that late. I must be proud of myself for being consistent, focus, and tough enough in making decision and setting up plans. And of course, for not giving up looking for clues.

I am 30 and I've got what I wanted to achieve. Working in a well-known NGO, meet VIP people, deal with international forums, being in charged in a nation-wide project even when I'm still in my probation period, and recently... visit ASEAN Secretariat and got free dinner there.. (he he!)

My resume about this is 'consistency rules'. I had never been ceased to find the ways to my goals. I never stop the search. I never let myself down and I never let anyone pulling me out from my plans. I clean up every clutter that blocks my way. Ego control and stubbornness have to be managed very wisely.

YES! I'M IN !!!

2010-01-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

" CONGRATULATIONS! YOU'VE BEEN ACCEPTED AS THE GRADUATE STUDENT IN THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL AND POLITICAL SCIENCE!"

I was surprised, and to be honest, I didn't expect that!

This morning, I woke up at 7 o'clock and directly popped to my laptop. I accessed the admission's site of Universitas Indonesia. I typed my application number, and.. VOILA!

When I did the selection test, that f*ck*in "GRE" thingy, I swore a lot that those questions were ridiculous, crazy, out of mind, and silly! I gave up with the math session and I got home in a very bad mood.

However, the result is out of my expectation. I'm in! This got to be a sweet New Year's Gift for me! I thank God for this gift, and I feel more excited to live my life in 2010 with lectures, books, discussions, and.. new job's field!

Swallow it, don't bite it!

2009-12-07T00:06:00.000-08:00

Tiny green little yummy! This is the sweet and chewy glutinous cake called "Klepon" (french pronounciation: Cleu-pohn).

Made from glutinous powder, javanese brown sugar and covered with grated coconut, this Indonesian traditional finger snack used to be a "must-buy-stuff" for every housewife who goes shopping to the market.

I want to share the recipe with you, and here it is:

Ingredients:

1½ cups glutinous powder

¾ cup lukewarm water

2-3 drops green food coloring*

8 tsp. grated Java dark brown sugar

1 cup fresh-grated coconut, mixed with ½ tsp salt

How To:

Mix the rice powder with the lukewarm water and green food coloring into a firm but flexible dough.

Pull off one full teaspoon of the dough and shape it into a ball with approximately 1-inch in diameter.

Push a finger into the center of the ball to make a hole, and put in approximately ½ tsp. of the grated sugar. Seal, and roll it back into the ball shape with the palms of your hands.

Prepare all the balls and set them aside.

Prepare a pot half filled with water and bring it to a boil.

Drop the balls into the boiling water. Remove the balls with a spoon once they float to the water surface and then roll the balls in the grated coconut. Serve at room temperature. (Makes 30 rice balls)

*Traditionally made from pandan leaves' essence

Nobody should know how old we are

2009-11-27T16:09:00.000-08:00

I must say that this little party was awesome and cute! Despite its simple and modest style, we were excited to celebrate it in the canteen. The secret was the togetherness of our class. Too bad Christian and Alket were absent. Christian doesn't continue his course due to his new job, and Alket was somehow away in Aceh with his duty.

I enjoy being with my classmates. We are vary in our ages but nobody cares about it! The 17 years old girl Meme can get along with us. She's even the spark of the class! She always comes with a stunning-to-death fashion statement that stops our breath!

Our teacher is younger than me and the other birthday-ers. But she proves her ability in French and pedagogy very well.

Age has never been something important for me. Unlike the others, I always feel that I still have rooms enough to do this and that. Peter Pan syndrome? Hmm... not really. I just believe that the horizon can always be spread wider when you believe it can.

That is why I have friends from various background! I can get along with teenagers, mid 20's, the 30's, even senior people. And most of them admit the same thing: They are always being inspired and motivated by me.

This confession is an honor for me, despite my own hard and juggling life.

I am happy that my life history, my achievements, my failures, and my ideas about facing the obstacles have inspired those whose life are better than mine.

As I blow out the candles, I wish for a more colorful life ahead, as colorful as the candles, and that my life be more bling-bling! - as stunning as those strawberries:)

It's my Birthday!!!

2009-11-20T18:15:00.000-08:00

When the clock strikes 00:00, then I've passed my 20s over. Ha! Let's see what I've done during my late 20s?

I started 2009 with a resolution that covers the achievement in language proficiency, got a scholarship, being able to do internship in a cultural institution, work in UN agency, and sleep with Gerard Butler (woohoo!) :)

Let see what happened during 2009:

I was accepted as an intern in Goethe-Institut Jakarta, I did the regional Dance Summit Project, I met new people who work with the foreign cultural centers and international affairs, I got new network as well, I GOT THE TURKISH LANGUAGE SUMMER SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP although I rejected it (Coz I was still under a contract with Goethe-Institut), I meet people who works for the UN (Alket in UNDP and Mr Martin Aleida, an ex senior journalist of Tempo who used to work for the UN too), and I met Abi- my Afghan-German classmate in Perth- through xing.com and found him looks like Gerry so much!

And I learn German!

Ja, Ich lerne Deutsche.

Not giving up with my dream, I spend my concurrent activity with learning European language. I've taken French and Italian, now I take German.

I was going to learn German in Goethe-Institut but the registration has not open yet. Otherwise, I asked Somba to teach me by private. Somba is my classmate in our French class four years ago. He was a German teacher in a foreign language school. He's in the same age with me, but always pretends as if he was twenty two! This year, he gets a job in the Language Center of Universitas Indonesia as a German teacher.

Together with Endah, my other ex-class mate in CCF, we do the course anywhere we find it convenience. Sometimes in my house, sometimes in Endah's house, or sometimes in the nearest donut cafe.

I must admit that Somba is a good teacher. He knows how to lead the class, lead our mind, and the most important thing is: he knows how to transfer the knowledge. The class is very enjoyable, since we are in the similar age, but we still respect the lesson as it should be.

German is simpler than French. But the logic is a little bit different.

After being failed with the Master Scholarship from the Turkish government, I immediately did my plan B. I met people who help me in psychology and career counseling, then I decided to take the appropriate subject. I study Public Relations in Interstudi School of Communication and Journalism in Antara News Agent. And I found them sexy! Psst.. I'am also preparing myself for the entry test of graduate program in Universitas Indonesia! Guess what's the subject will be? International Relations! Ha ha!

I got new friends... that's the most exciting part in 2009. New friends means new network, doesn't it? ! And I love being loved by them. They are the most inspiring supporter in my life, ever :)

Happy Birthday, Dewi. May your wish comes true as you blow your candle...

Unpublished Draft

2009-11-16T17:46:00.001-08:00

The anxiety inside me has been really disturbing. Within a week, I'll be leaving my 20's age. For women in Indonesia, leaving their 20s is like being caught by an SS soldier and never be able to come back.

I don't mind of being 30, really. But the facts that people are judging me for my status is very annoying. "What do you do?" I can simply answer, "I am a student". Yes, I am a student of Interstudi School of Communication, taking a 6 months course of Public Relations. Where do you work? "I used to be an intern in Goethe-Institut Jakarta". "Ah, you're a German teacher?". "No, I am an amateur in German". "Ah zo.."

The most annoying comments come from Indonesian friends. "Are you married?". "No." "But you are 30!" I said, "I'm looking for another internship in international non governmental organization." "Internship? In your age? I think you should have looked for a money-oriented activity!"

If only I could turn back time, I would have changed my major from Visual Communication Design to International Relations, Anthropology, or whatever.
***
That was my un-published post last year :D
Anyway, time has flown away and change things out!

Dinner with the Heroes

2009-10-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

Tell me: what would you do if you got a RSVP note from Bruce Wayne for a romantic dinner on the top of Gotham City's skyscraper? Or a brunch date with Superman between his super busy hours on his criminal sweeping job? I bet you have jumped into a comic frame, draw yourself some baloons and write your own conversations there!

Tebet (french pronounciation: teu-beute) offers an interesting place to eat, or just to hang out with friends. This place belongs to someone who loves comic and the concept has been implemented in the whole corporate design; from the logo, interior design to the menu card. This place is called : COMIC CAFE.

I was excited just as I started to read the menu card. It was designed as a comic, with frames and heroic scenes inside, showing Wonder Woman screams "Potato Wedges......IDR 8500! Zuppa Soups...........IDR 14.000! Chicken Cordon Bleu......IDR 30.000!!!" while punching her enemies out.

The most interesting side for me is the price. I don't have to spend much money here if I just want to chat with friends with some drinks and finger foods. I give two thumbs up for the food, price, place, and the service.

Located in Tebet Raya Street #53D, South Jakarta, Comic Cafe is quite close to Central and East Jakarta. Comic Cafe in Tebet is close to Menteng, Kuningan (Rasuna Said Street), and Kampung Melayu.

People who come from Saharjo Street can reach it easily. From the entrance of Tebet Raya Street, next to Mitsubushi showroom, just drive along the street until you pass over three junctions. At the forth junction we can see Comic Cafe at our left. The junction is full of cafes, kebab's corner, restaurants, clothing outlets, and of course : Circle-K and Alfamart, the youngster's favorite place to buy a can of cheap beer or a cup of instant coffee.

At the second floor, we may find a clothing shop and a comic library. For those who needs privacy and a reserved gathering place, you may reserve a cozy comic lounge at the third floor.

The emergence of Tebet as a center for creative communities can be seen from the presence of several advertising studios, Ruang Rupa art community center, indie clothing outlets, school of graphic design, restaurants, cakes and coffee shops.

Jakarta's Best Library

2009-10-13T22:28:00.000-07:00

If you are students, professors, or common citizens, even if you are disable/blind and you need to access to informations, make sure to visit this place. It called "Perpustakaan Departemen Pendidikan Nasional" or "The Library of the Ministry of National Education".

Located in Sudirman Street, next to Ratu Plaza on the right and Plaza EX on the left, it can be easily reached by Busway. Stop in Ratu Plaza station, and walk a little to the side of Ratu Plaza. The Library is located in the same area of the Ministry of National Education. There are several buildings inside the area. Just go to the main building (A Building) in the front; and if you are facing it, go to the right side. Find the glass-wall with yellow frame, and.. voila! Welcome to the Library!

In the previous time, this library belongs to the British Council. Since 1990's something ( I forgot!), all of its collection were given to the Ministry of National Education. Now, 90 percents of the books are those given from the British Councils, and the rest 10 percents are new.

In this Library you may find several facilities such as study/reading room, meeting room, audio visual room, International TV broadcast, seven computers for free internet connections (members only), room for online and offline journal, study corner for disable people who are blind, and online catalogues.

On the lower ground, there is a large lobby with some chairs and cozy sofas. Next to the lobby is another reading room, online and offline journal room and a meeting room. Climbing the stairway up, you will find the main reading room with six big racks of the book collections. Internet connections, audio visual corner and the corner for the disables are located in the same floor.

I must say I like this cozy and quiet place. Well, although the air conditioner is too freezing for me, but there is no place like this library that makes my reading speed goes faster! I'm sitting on a purple comfortable sofa right now, and the free internet connection is good. I will move to the desk next to the window if I need to recharge my laptop battery. There is a power socket under the table.

Canteens are available in the lower ground, next to the library. Damn, this AC is freezing me out.. I'm hungry now!

Ah, I forgot telling you about the membership. The membership is free of charge. You just need to fill out the form, 2x3 cm photograph, and a photocopy of your ID card. During the first year, your membership is categorized as Basic. It means, you are only allowed to borrow 1 book and 1 audio visual unit. After a year, the library will evaluate your performance to decide wether you can uprise your membership to Regular or not. As a Regular member, you may borrow 2 books and 2 audio visual units. Above Regular is Premium, where you can borrow 3 books and 2 audio visual units.

The Sexy Idiosyncratic

2009-10-12T22:35:00.000-07:00

Failed with my graduate scholarship from the Turkish Government did not make me down. I assert of being able to take off from any runway. Just after I got the bad news, supports from friends, and the multiply bloggers whom I don't even know came to shower me. Surprisingly, many of them have been spiritually encouraged by me!

One of the best support came from Mira, a clarinet player who studies Psychology. She helped me analyzing my personality, academic potential and job preferences. "Let me help you finding your path", she said. Therefore, an amazing result came up, and here are my career types:

1. Investigating

2. Creative

3. Social

4. Enterprising

Has been working as a graphic designer and illustrator for years, it is a proof that I have a capability for working in creative field. I was a co-founder of Maros Visual Culture Community (now a foundation), and it means I can work in enterprising field. I am a social person, and I love writing too. Communication field would be matches with these four types of career!

Another psychological test was taken to see my personality. And here are the most dominant:

1. Dramatic

2. Idiosyncratic

3. Leader

In order to strengthen this, I decide to enroll the two-months journalistic writing course and a six-months certificate program of Public Relations. The journalistic course is convened by Antara, the Indonesian national news agency. It will begin next saturday, 17 October 2009.

A Cozy Burrow for Jakarta Dreamers: Bakoel Koffie

2009-09-25T23:33:00.000-07:00

Located in Cikini street, Central Jakarta, this coffee shop can be easily recognized as a place where people with creative thoughts gather or simply indulged themselves in its homey atmosphere. Artists, journalists, students, or government employees can be found here especially at the weekend. The warm, yet old style interior, combined with special menus, friendly waiters - and of course - wireless internet connection are the utmost reasons for being a loyal costumer.

In the first level there are indoor and outdoor space with the variety of the chairs and table styles. If you prefer a non-smoking space with air conditioner, you can sit in the front side. Couch and cushions, and a coffee table are located near the front door, just behind the window, where you can see the street from inside. Some marble tables with old wooden chairs are available with electrical sockets near them - something you need when working with laptop. Friendly waiters and the coffee smell will accompany you if you sit on the stool at the bar side. If you smoke or love fresh air, three couches and coffee tables await you in the back terrace. Second level is a smoking area. However, there are some air conditioners too.

I'll tell you later about the food and beverages :)

Blooming in The Rain

2009-09-25T06:14:00.001-07:00

Sitting in the corner of Bakoel Koffie, my favorite place to contemplate. It's 2 months before my birthday, and I feel like pruning my life. The last ten years has been spent with too many rock and rollas, it is the time now to walk on the desired path! Too many dreams abandoned behind, too many possibilities forgotten. But rain comes healing those who suffer from thirst. Yep, it's raining outside, slapping the city with her wind and roaring thunder!

I remember 2006. The first water drop fell to the city after a long dry season, and I felt like being blessed. Born again with a new hope. Tonight, dreams are blooming again from the showered city. One of the beads is mine :)

Benar-benar seru!

2009-09-24T00:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Seru-meru!

In Bahasa Indonesia, "Seru" means "something causes strong feeling of enthusiasm". I use this word because it represents how I feel about my life. I add "meru" behind it to stress the excitement of the word. So, welcome to "Seru-meru!", coz I'll make your day even brighter! :)

Love,

Dewi