Here's something random. Last year, before I got married, I and Bangun received wedding invitations almost every weekend. And we tried to attend each and every one of it, out of respect and to study how to host a great reception.
Lately, as we're expecting our first child, somehow we've been getting quite a few invitations to aqiqah, a religious tradition to celebrate the birth of a baby. By attending these aqiqah receptions, not only we get to eat various kinds of grilled lamb, we also observe how to host our own aqiqah, especially 'cos we live away from our families. Plus I get to meet and chat with other moms about dealing with a newborn.
That's just how great the universe sometimes works.
Saturday, September 08, 2012
Tuesday, August 07, 2012
24w
Hey Bob,
Babycenter.com said 16 weeks to go! I kinda don't want this to end; I like knowing you're inside and the way you kick and punch makes me feel like I'm always with someone, 24/7. Another cliche that's true. Just go easy on Mommy's insides, will you. Somehow, most of the times, when I ignore your moves, you seem to kick and/or punch harder and harder until I put my hand to cover my stomach. I see someone's thirsty for attention already.
But on the other hand, I also can't wait to meet you in person. Not through scary-looking USG cameras cos you kinda look like an alien there. I'm more nervous about the labor, but let's save that for later, shall we?
Anyway, it's fasting month now. You'll learn all about it as soon as you can. This is my first Ramadan with your dad, you know, as husband and wife. I never ever thought I'd cope with preparing the pre-dawn meals and stuff, but turns out it's been so much fun.
Before we get married, I and your dad were the kind of persons who woke up 30 to 15 minutes before Subuh, because the foods were already served on the table. Now, we gotta wake up earlier to cook them, and the night before, at least we have to figure out what to cook for tomorrow's meal.
So far, no complaints whatsoever. I've also improved my cooking skill by making my mom's famous fried kurma with cheese. In a nutshell, being married and going through the fasting month together kicks all previous fasting months' ass.
Back to you, Bob. We're going to Jakarta again to celebrate Idul Fitri with the relatives. I can't wait to look for strollers and other stuff for you, so please stay healthy OK? And if you hear constant singing of Redemption Song and O Sole Mio (go Youtube the songs if you're not familiar with them), that's your father wanting to get you all musical so you won't grow up tone-deaf like me.
Kiss,
Your mom
Babycenter.com said 16 weeks to go! I kinda don't want this to end; I like knowing you're inside and the way you kick and punch makes me feel like I'm always with someone, 24/7. Another cliche that's true. Just go easy on Mommy's insides, will you. Somehow, most of the times, when I ignore your moves, you seem to kick and/or punch harder and harder until I put my hand to cover my stomach. I see someone's thirsty for attention already.
But on the other hand, I also can't wait to meet you in person. Not through scary-looking USG cameras cos you kinda look like an alien there. I'm more nervous about the labor, but let's save that for later, shall we?
Anyway, it's fasting month now. You'll learn all about it as soon as you can. This is my first Ramadan with your dad, you know, as husband and wife. I never ever thought I'd cope with preparing the pre-dawn meals and stuff, but turns out it's been so much fun.
Before we get married, I and your dad were the kind of persons who woke up 30 to 15 minutes before Subuh, because the foods were already served on the table. Now, we gotta wake up earlier to cook them, and the night before, at least we have to figure out what to cook for tomorrow's meal.
So far, no complaints whatsoever. I've also improved my cooking skill by making my mom's famous fried kurma with cheese. In a nutshell, being married and going through the fasting month together kicks all previous fasting months' ass.
Back to you, Bob. We're going to Jakarta again to celebrate Idul Fitri with the relatives. I can't wait to look for strollers and other stuff for you, so please stay healthy OK? And if you hear constant singing of Redemption Song and O Sole Mio (go Youtube the songs if you're not familiar with them), that's your father wanting to get you all musical so you won't grow up tone-deaf like me.
Kiss,
Your mom
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Gender (myth) bender
Gender is definitely an interesting issue during pregnancy. Me, I'd been curious what my baby would be ever since the doctor confirmed my home test pack. Personally, of course I don't mind if it's a boy or a girl. If it's a boy, then we'll try as hard as possible to make the second one a girl, and vice versa.
Wait, there's gonna be a second one?
More on that later. Waaay later.
This baby's sex, however, is not merely interesting for the parents, but also to other people. As I mention in an earlier post, Bangun's relatives (and a few of mine) pooled a bet on the gender. When we gathered for my Syukuran last month to celebrate the 4th month of the pregnancy, at one point they called me and told me to pose, side to side, front and back, to "read" the sex of Bob. Of course it's only for fun, and I think the note's gone by now anyway.
Honestly, I still can't fathom how can a person look at a pregnant woman and tell her baby's gender. One of the most well-known myths is, the baby's a boy if the mother doesn't look glowing during the pregnancy. In other words, if you look ugly for nine months, you're probably having a boy.
Meanwhile, of course that myth is bullshit. I've seen friends who are carrying boys and still look pretty as ever, and on the other hands, I also know some friends who look ignorant with their looks while having little girls inside.
How about me? Well, many people have assumed that I'm having a boy. Am I offended? A little. But I can't blame them because naturally, I don't like putting on make-ups. And true, ever since I got pregnant in this very sunny city of Balikpapan, I try to put on less and less layer of clothes, and only wear the most casual ones. Being sick and nauseous on the first two months didn't help with the self-grooming, either. Forget the hair salon, I couldn't even left the house for an hour without throwing up. Plus, my face has always been somewhat on the oily side, and pimple is the only sign of puberty that hasn't left me since high school.
At the beginning of my pregnancy, I was pretty sure I was carrying a baby boy. But now, as time passed and so did the sickness, I find myself wanting to dress up, at least by my standard. Although still, I haven't used most tools in my cosmetic bags. And the last two times we saw two different ob-gyns, they told us this is gonna be a girl.
Dun dun dunnn.
And right up to this day, most people who look at me still assume it's a boy. Rada sialan juga sih. But oh well who cares, seriously. I now enjoy the looks on their faces when I say it's a girl and ask them why do they think it's a boy.
Wait, there's gonna be a second one?
More on that later. Waaay later.
This baby's sex, however, is not merely interesting for the parents, but also to other people. As I mention in an earlier post, Bangun's relatives (and a few of mine) pooled a bet on the gender. When we gathered for my Syukuran last month to celebrate the 4th month of the pregnancy, at one point they called me and told me to pose, side to side, front and back, to "read" the sex of Bob. Of course it's only for fun, and I think the note's gone by now anyway.
Honestly, I still can't fathom how can a person look at a pregnant woman and tell her baby's gender. One of the most well-known myths is, the baby's a boy if the mother doesn't look glowing during the pregnancy. In other words, if you look ugly for nine months, you're probably having a boy.
Meanwhile, of course that myth is bullshit. I've seen friends who are carrying boys and still look pretty as ever, and on the other hands, I also know some friends who look ignorant with their looks while having little girls inside.
How about me? Well, many people have assumed that I'm having a boy. Am I offended? A little. But I can't blame them because naturally, I don't like putting on make-ups. And true, ever since I got pregnant in this very sunny city of Balikpapan, I try to put on less and less layer of clothes, and only wear the most casual ones. Being sick and nauseous on the first two months didn't help with the self-grooming, either. Forget the hair salon, I couldn't even left the house for an hour without throwing up. Plus, my face has always been somewhat on the oily side, and pimple is the only sign of puberty that hasn't left me since high school.
At the beginning of my pregnancy, I was pretty sure I was carrying a baby boy. But now, as time passed and so did the sickness, I find myself wanting to dress up, at least by my standard. Although still, I haven't used most tools in my cosmetic bags. And the last two times we saw two different ob-gyns, they told us this is gonna be a girl.
Dun dun dunnn.
And right up to this day, most people who look at me still assume it's a boy. Rada sialan juga sih. But oh well who cares, seriously. I now enjoy the looks on their faces when I say it's a girl and ask them why do they think it's a boy.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
I don't know how it's even possible,
..but like Savage Garden once said, I love you before I get to meet you, Bob.
You moved around again today, only for a tiny bit, but it sent me to the moon. It really did. You're too cute, I love you I love you I love you.
You moved around again today, only for a tiny bit, but it sent me to the moon. It really did. You're too cute, I love you I love you I love you.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
17w
Hey Bob,
Don't worry it's not your name. It's just what we used to call you when you were still a peanut-like fetus. Now that you've grown and starting to look like real human, head and feet and all, I'm trying hard to stop calling you Bob and start calling you with the name we've prepared for you, but it's so hard to do. So in the mean time, Bob will just have to do.
Anyway, 17 weeks. I'm in my second trimester already, and thank you, now gone are the nauseous, sickening feelings and the toilet-bowl visits. On the contrary, I've been eating ay lot, and gained 3.5 kgs. Wow, Bob, good job there kid.
We saw you a few times in the last few months. You keep moving around, but how come I haven't felt any of it?! Come on, kick around harder and let me know that you're really in there. You know, your father also can't wait to feel your moves. He keeps rubbing his hands on my tummy, and he talks to you. Well, you've probably heard him from where you are right now.
You also probably heard a lot of voices over the weekend. Those were your aunts, uncles, and grandparents. We held a small get-together in Jakarta to celebrate your 4th month in my womb. Yes, I finally went to Jakarta, to all those bright lights, big malls, and fancy foods. Everyone was so excited about you! They even placed a bet on whether you're a girl or a boy. The trip, as stinky and dirty as Jakarta is, was still very nice. I hope you like the city, 'cos it's where you're gonna be born.
Speaking of which, during my stay, I visited a couple of hospitals and discussed with your dad about where you should be born. It's so confusing, you know, just to pick the most convenient hospital for us. I have a few candidates in mind, but there are so many options to consider. Let's hope your father's office insurance will cover the whole labor process, so at least price will not be a problem to think about anymore.
All in all, it's still a great feeling to have you inside. My bump is showing a bit, and I've never been better. Be well, Bob. Next time we go to the ObGyn, will you please move around a lot again so we'll know you're a boy or a girl?
Don't worry it's not your name. It's just what we used to call you when you were still a peanut-like fetus. Now that you've grown and starting to look like real human, head and feet and all, I'm trying hard to stop calling you Bob and start calling you with the name we've prepared for you, but it's so hard to do. So in the mean time, Bob will just have to do.
Anyway, 17 weeks. I'm in my second trimester already, and thank you, now gone are the nauseous, sickening feelings and the toilet-bowl visits. On the contrary, I've been eating ay lot, and gained 3.5 kgs. Wow, Bob, good job there kid.
We saw you a few times in the last few months. You keep moving around, but how come I haven't felt any of it?! Come on, kick around harder and let me know that you're really in there. You know, your father also can't wait to feel your moves. He keeps rubbing his hands on my tummy, and he talks to you. Well, you've probably heard him from where you are right now.
You also probably heard a lot of voices over the weekend. Those were your aunts, uncles, and grandparents. We held a small get-together in Jakarta to celebrate your 4th month in my womb. Yes, I finally went to Jakarta, to all those bright lights, big malls, and fancy foods. Everyone was so excited about you! They even placed a bet on whether you're a girl or a boy. The trip, as stinky and dirty as Jakarta is, was still very nice. I hope you like the city, 'cos it's where you're gonna be born.
Speaking of which, during my stay, I visited a couple of hospitals and discussed with your dad about where you should be born. It's so confusing, you know, just to pick the most convenient hospital for us. I have a few candidates in mind, but there are so many options to consider. Let's hope your father's office insurance will cover the whole labor process, so at least price will not be a problem to think about anymore.
All in all, it's still a great feeling to have you inside. My bump is showing a bit, and I've never been better. Be well, Bob. Next time we go to the ObGyn, will you please move around a lot again so we'll know you're a boy or a girl?
Thursday, June 07, 2012
In the kitchen
They say the best way into a man's heart is through his stomach. I didn't always agree with this, mainly because I'm a total walking disaster in the kitchen. Before I moved to Balikpapan, I could only cook instant noodles, scrambled eggs, and...that's it. I couldn't tell the difference of onion and garlic, and even I still can't tell which one is ginger, coriander, and all those other spices.
My mom, who is an excellent, excellent cook, used to say I'd be forced to learn after I got married. Which is why I never listened to her whenever she was about to teach me something in the kitchen. I thought, by the time I live alone, I would have no other option but to learn how to cook.
And it couldn't be more true. Here in Balikpapan, we have our lunch delivered from a house-to-house catering service. At first, I ordered two meals per day; one for lunch and another for dinner. However, after a few weeks, we felt that we could save some money if we make our own meals. So the arrangement changed; lunch is ordered, and dinner? Well, dinner is home-cooked meal, made by yours truly.
Bangun told me--no, instructed me--to create a menu. He bought a white board, put it on our living room, and actually pulled me to sit in front of it and think of a week's menu. I was of course reluctant, but deep down maybe my female instinct felt that I should be able to serve my husband the best foods.
So for the last two months, off I went to the kitchen, each day always accompanied by Bangun because I'm scared as hell of the erupting cooking oil from the pan (OK maybe not erupting, but those small splashes of Bimoli are mean!).The first ever meal I cooked was spaghetti, and it tasted like rubber with tomato sauce. I learned my mistakes and tried other recipes. Days after days, Bangun seems to enjoy the foods more. Me? Growing up eating my mom's foods, I haven't found anything extraordinarily satisfying from my own.
Fast forward to yesterday. I made beef teriyaki for dinner. Why was it so special? Because, ladies and gentlemen, June 6th was the first time my husband liked the food I cooked so much, he downed the last few drops of the teriyaki sauce right out of the serving plate. He kept saying how good it was, and that was enough to motivate me to find more recipes and try them.
Am I entitled to pat myself in the back or what?
My mom, who is an excellent, excellent cook, used to say I'd be forced to learn after I got married. Which is why I never listened to her whenever she was about to teach me something in the kitchen. I thought, by the time I live alone, I would have no other option but to learn how to cook.
And it couldn't be more true. Here in Balikpapan, we have our lunch delivered from a house-to-house catering service. At first, I ordered two meals per day; one for lunch and another for dinner. However, after a few weeks, we felt that we could save some money if we make our own meals. So the arrangement changed; lunch is ordered, and dinner? Well, dinner is home-cooked meal, made by yours truly.
Bangun told me--no, instructed me--to create a menu. He bought a white board, put it on our living room, and actually pulled me to sit in front of it and think of a week's menu. I was of course reluctant, but deep down maybe my female instinct felt that I should be able to serve my husband the best foods.
So for the last two months, off I went to the kitchen, each day always accompanied by Bangun because I'm scared as hell of the erupting cooking oil from the pan (OK maybe not erupting, but those small splashes of Bimoli are mean!).The first ever meal I cooked was spaghetti, and it tasted like rubber with tomato sauce. I learned my mistakes and tried other recipes. Days after days, Bangun seems to enjoy the foods more. Me? Growing up eating my mom's foods, I haven't found anything extraordinarily satisfying from my own.
Fast forward to yesterday. I made beef teriyaki for dinner. Why was it so special? Because, ladies and gentlemen, June 6th was the first time my husband liked the food I cooked so much, he downed the last few drops of the teriyaki sauce right out of the serving plate. He kept saying how good it was, and that was enough to motivate me to find more recipes and try them.
Am I entitled to pat myself in the back or what?
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
12w
Dear Baby,
This is the first note I write for you. Thought it might be cool to have something for you to read when you're old enough to a) Browse the Internet b) Understand English and c) Know what your mother was like when she was young.
Anyway, you're "only" a 12-week-old fetus now. I saw you move for the first time today and I freaked out at the doctor's office. I mean, it's crazy weird to have something alive and moving inside you, you know. You kicked and moved here and there, and it was--to say the cliche--amazing. You're so so tiny yet you have a head, a spine, brain, heart and all.
Tell you what. The last few weeks weren't easy for me. I've been nauseous, tired, sleepy, cranky, you name it. And then at night, there's the haunting fear of labor and what comes after. Don't get me wrong--I'm ecstatic to have found out about you. It's just that this is my first pregnancy. I'm bound to get all panic and queasy, right?
On the other hand, though, I can't wait to meet you. Your father and I have found an androgynous name for you, since we won't find out whether you're a boy or a girl until about next month. I like the name, even though I've also prepared a girl's name, just in case.
I think this is enough for a first note. You stay healthy, OK, I'm happy to keep you inside for another six months.
Cheers,
Your mother (say what?)
This is the first note I write for you. Thought it might be cool to have something for you to read when you're old enough to a) Browse the Internet b) Understand English and c) Know what your mother was like when she was young.
Anyway, you're "only" a 12-week-old fetus now. I saw you move for the first time today and I freaked out at the doctor's office. I mean, it's crazy weird to have something alive and moving inside you, you know. You kicked and moved here and there, and it was--to say the cliche--amazing. You're so so tiny yet you have a head, a spine, brain, heart and all.
Tell you what. The last few weeks weren't easy for me. I've been nauseous, tired, sleepy, cranky, you name it. And then at night, there's the haunting fear of labor and what comes after. Don't get me wrong--I'm ecstatic to have found out about you. It's just that this is my first pregnancy. I'm bound to get all panic and queasy, right?
On the other hand, though, I can't wait to meet you. Your father and I have found an androgynous name for you, since we won't find out whether you're a boy or a girl until about next month. I like the name, even though I've also prepared a girl's name, just in case.
I think this is enough for a first note. You stay healthy, OK, I'm happy to keep you inside for another six months.
Cheers,
Your mother (say what?)
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
I love you, but...
Most people say when you're pregnant, it's best to have your mother around to take care of you, and the baby after it's been born. I must admit, when I found out about the two stripes just a few days before moving here to Balikpapan, I was a bit nervous and thought about holding back the trip for a few months.
But anyway, my ObGyn said it was OK to fly on the early week, and I took it as a sign that I had to go along with the plan. So now, there's only the two of us here trying to figure out how to deal with the first pregnancy.
So far, in my 10th week now, my mom has visited me one weekend with my sister. Other than that, I'm alone and only rely on the Internet for information. We're lucky Bangun has an uncle and aunt here, so once in a while she sends healthy, nutritious foods.
I gotta say, it's both a curse and a blessing to be away from your mom during your first pregnancy. Why blessing? Kok durhaka banget?
Well, no mother means no ancient myths on pregnancy. All those weird, tasteless foods and banned activities; I must say I'm glad I'm free from the nagging, take-it-from-my-experience advises. And my mom does nag. Oh, does she nag. She's the kind of mother who dramatizes everything, and this is gonna be her first grandchild. She cried instantly when I showed her my pee stick, and struggled to hold back her tears when going to the ObGyn with me for the first time. Imagine that.
So far, the nagging comes via daily BBM dose of "udah makan apa aja?" "udah minum susu?" "diminum bubur kacang ijonya", "kamu stok daging, ayam, ikan biar gampang diolah gak usah makan di luar", "jangan makan indomie", "jangan renang", "jangan nyetir", "jangan bunuh binatang"....
While it's all done in a bid to have a healthy baby, the little research I've done on the Internet shows that, and this is backed up by my ObGyn here, it's OK not to consume prenatal milk as long as you eat nutritious foods and take the suggested supplements; bubur kacang ijo has absolutely no relation to the thickness of a baby's hair, swimming is one of the most recommended sports for pregnant women, and it's OK to eat Indomie once in a while.
I used to work at that very noodlemaker, and ate different variant almost everyday back then so how can anyone expect me to stay away from it for nine months?!
Anyway. However, I can't help but feeling like I could use a mother or two here. It would be nice to have my mom cook any food I want everyday, and since she's hell good at cooking (and I'm a natural kitchen disaster), she can set up almost any food I want. Seriously. There are days, lots of days, when I wish my mom's here so I can have my favorite scrambled egg with cheese prepared without me having to deal with greasy pans in the kitchen.
And still, nothing beats cuddling with your mom when your body refuses to function, which happens almost everyday. Despite everything, I think my mom will be a great, loving grandmother for this kiddo.
But anyway, my ObGyn said it was OK to fly on the early week, and I took it as a sign that I had to go along with the plan. So now, there's only the two of us here trying to figure out how to deal with the first pregnancy.
So far, in my 10th week now, my mom has visited me one weekend with my sister. Other than that, I'm alone and only rely on the Internet for information. We're lucky Bangun has an uncle and aunt here, so once in a while she sends healthy, nutritious foods.
I gotta say, it's both a curse and a blessing to be away from your mom during your first pregnancy. Why blessing? Kok durhaka banget?
Well, no mother means no ancient myths on pregnancy. All those weird, tasteless foods and banned activities; I must say I'm glad I'm free from the nagging, take-it-from-my-experience advises. And my mom does nag. Oh, does she nag. She's the kind of mother who dramatizes everything, and this is gonna be her first grandchild. She cried instantly when I showed her my pee stick, and struggled to hold back her tears when going to the ObGyn with me for the first time. Imagine that.
So far, the nagging comes via daily BBM dose of "udah makan apa aja?" "udah minum susu?" "diminum bubur kacang ijonya", "kamu stok daging, ayam, ikan biar gampang diolah gak usah makan di luar", "jangan makan indomie", "jangan renang", "jangan nyetir", "jangan bunuh binatang"....
While it's all done in a bid to have a healthy baby, the little research I've done on the Internet shows that, and this is backed up by my ObGyn here, it's OK not to consume prenatal milk as long as you eat nutritious foods and take the suggested supplements; bubur kacang ijo has absolutely no relation to the thickness of a baby's hair, swimming is one of the most recommended sports for pregnant women, and it's OK to eat Indomie once in a while.
I used to work at that very noodlemaker, and ate different variant almost everyday back then so how can anyone expect me to stay away from it for nine months?!
Anyway. However, I can't help but feeling like I could use a mother or two here. It would be nice to have my mom cook any food I want everyday, and since she's hell good at cooking (and I'm a natural kitchen disaster), she can set up almost any food I want. Seriously. There are days, lots of days, when I wish my mom's here so I can have my favorite scrambled egg with cheese prepared without me having to deal with greasy pans in the kitchen.
And still, nothing beats cuddling with your mom when your body refuses to function, which happens almost everyday. Despite everything, I think my mom will be a great, loving grandmother for this kiddo.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Out with the old and in with the new
Hello from Balikpapan.
Been here for three weeks now, and I just couldn't find the time to blog between furnishing the house, cleaning it, adapting to the new role as a housewife, looking for new friends, and throwing up.
Yes, brace yourselves for an upcoming Suryoputro Jr!
God really does work in a mysterious way. Back then, when people asked me what would I do in Balikpapan, I always jokingly answered, "beranak," which is true. We planned to move out, settle in the new city, and then try to have kids.
But of course, the test pack came out with two lines just days before I had to fly out. Since the doctor in Jakarta allowed me to fly, off we went that March 24. In result, I could only sit down while Bangun did almost all the moving work.
Now I'm just entering my 7th week, so I still gotta be extra extra careful with everything. And for the last week, the throwing up is getting more frequent, my stomach feels big and bloated all the time (I mean it--round the clock. Kembung sepanjang hari), I feel sleepy all day and not to forget nauseous.
In short, I feel like shit. But every mother I know keeps telling me it's gonna worth it in the end, so hang on, baby, we still have a long long way to go!
Been here for three weeks now, and I just couldn't find the time to blog between furnishing the house, cleaning it, adapting to the new role as a housewife, looking for new friends, and throwing up.
Yes, brace yourselves for an upcoming Suryoputro Jr!
God really does work in a mysterious way. Back then, when people asked me what would I do in Balikpapan, I always jokingly answered, "beranak," which is true. We planned to move out, settle in the new city, and then try to have kids.
But of course, the test pack came out with two lines just days before I had to fly out. Since the doctor in Jakarta allowed me to fly, off we went that March 24. In result, I could only sit down while Bangun did almost all the moving work.
Now I'm just entering my 7th week, so I still gotta be extra extra careful with everything. And for the last week, the throwing up is getting more frequent, my stomach feels big and bloated all the time (I mean it--round the clock. Kembung sepanjang hari), I feel sleepy all day and not to forget nauseous.
In short, I feel like shit. But every mother I know keeps telling me it's gonna worth it in the end, so hang on, baby, we still have a long long way to go!
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Seven years ago today
It may not be important for some people. It may sound childish, cheesy, or crappy. But to me, it's another reason to celebrate; another reminder of how on earth we could be where we are now.
And this day, this date is certainly a milestone for us. Seven years together, and finally on the seventh year, we will be together together. No more long distance calls or desperately waiting for the weekend to come.
Thanks for putting up with me on and off the phone for the last seven years, you. Whoever said drinking buddies can't get together and get married? :D
Thursday, March 08, 2012
Happy birthday, Abi
Today is my nephew Abimanyu's second birthday. He's the son of Bangun's brother, Obeng, and he lives far away in Batam. So here's my post for the little guy.
So you might not realize it's your birthday..
..but I wish you a life full of joy and adventure where you can hop, hop, hop wherever your heart takes you...
...semoga Abi tumbuh jadi anak yang kaya akan pengetahuan, tercapai cita-citanya yang mulia (gayanya sih udah bisa jadi Welding Inspector--that should be a start)...
...semoga Abi nggak marah-marah lagi kalo truknya dipinjem...
...all in all, I hope your future's looking bright and shiny for you. But forget all that for now, since your journey is just about to begin, little kid...
...so let's just sit back, relax, enjoy your time as a child where you can run around and play whatever you like, however you'd like it to be!
So you might not realize it's your birthday..
..but I wish you a life full of joy and adventure where you can hop, hop, hop wherever your heart takes you...
...semoga Abi tumbuh jadi anak yang kaya akan pengetahuan, tercapai cita-citanya yang mulia (gayanya sih udah bisa jadi Welding Inspector--that should be a start)...
...semoga Abi nggak marah-marah lagi kalo truknya dipinjem...
...all in all, I hope your future's looking bright and shiny for you. But forget all that for now, since your journey is just about to begin, little kid...
...so let's just sit back, relax, enjoy your time as a child where you can run around and play whatever you like, however you'd like it to be!
Happy birthday, Respati Abimanyu Putra Prostoro,
With much much love,
Tante Pedhe and Oom Jenggul
PS: Dunia ini isinya bukan Oom Jenggul doang lho, yang lain juga kepingin dipeluk-peluk bangun tidur.
PS #2: Semoga Abi gak cemburu terus kalo O om lagi sama Tante Pedhe, ya. Again, he's not solely yours!
Monday, February 27, 2012
If I get a penny every time...
"Wah, pindah ke Balikpapan beneran?"
"Iya."
"Terus kerjaannya gimana?"
"Ya resign."
"Yah, sayang banget dong, udah bagus-bagus di Indofo*d..."
In real life, I usually reply with a smile, a nod and a "gak apa-apa kok."
But you know what, dear brothers, cousins, colleagues, and relatives, that is the last thing I need to hear these days. I'm very well aware of my job and the place I work at, thank you very much. I know what kind of company it is, and resigning has never been an easy decision on my end.
However, it's also not easy to be separated from your husband, miles apart and you only get to see each other on weekends, itujugarebutansamaagendakeluarga. In my opinion, a family, even it's just a three-month-old newlyweds, must stay together. Especially when you're financially secure, then there's no reason to live separately because of work. No matter how ambitious we are in pursuing our career, I think when we're married, we gotta remember that a wife's duty is to maintain a comfortable home for her husband.
I think, if I stay in Jakarta and Bangun's in Balikpapan, there's no point in getting married.
So thank you for the (gentle?) reminders, but I'm (trying hard to be) OK with my upcoming role as a housewife in Balikpapan. Please, good people, work with me here.
"Iya."
"Terus kerjaannya gimana?"
"Ya resign."
"Yah, sayang banget dong, udah bagus-bagus di Indofo*d..."
In real life, I usually reply with a smile, a nod and a "gak apa-apa kok."
But you know what, dear brothers, cousins, colleagues, and relatives, that is the last thing I need to hear these days. I'm very well aware of my job and the place I work at, thank you very much. I know what kind of company it is, and resigning has never been an easy decision on my end.
However, it's also not easy to be separated from your husband, miles apart and you only get to see each other on weekends, itujugarebutansamaagendakeluarga. In my opinion, a family, even it's just a three-month-old newlyweds, must stay together. Especially when you're financially secure, then there's no reason to live separately because of work. No matter how ambitious we are in pursuing our career, I think when we're married, we gotta remember that a wife's duty is to maintain a comfortable home for her husband.
I think, if I stay in Jakarta and Bangun's in Balikpapan, there's no point in getting married.
So thank you for the (gentle?) reminders, but I'm (trying hard to be) OK with my upcoming role as a housewife in Balikpapan. Please, good people, work with me here.
Friday, February 24, 2012
On being an intern
As part of its CSR programs, the company I work at give out internship opportunities to undergraduates. They're scattered in different factories and plantations, but most of them end up here in Communications. One period of internship is three months, so for the past two years, we certainly have met with various batches of interns with various levels of manner, work ethic and stupidity.
Now, the problem is, I don't cope well with slow, menye-menye kids. I just don't have the patience. For God's sake, I made one of the interns cry a few months ago because she simply could not keep up with me, her supervisor.
It's not like I don't understand what it's like being an intern. Thankfully, my uni had two internship programs and I had the chance to work in a real office twice before I graduated. So I know how it feels to be the youngest employee, to not know any single thing about office ethics, and to feel uncomfortably out of place during the first days.
I didn't even know how to use the copy and fax machines back then. But what do you do, kids? You learn. And after a few weeks, you're expected to blend in instead of mumble “Kok aku yang disuruh” every time you receive a task.
So with this note, maybe read these little tips before being an intern. Or maybe pass them to the younger set of kids.
1. Learn about the company before your first day, at least from the web site. Know the products. We're not asking you to memorize our latest net profit, but at least save the embarrassment of “Oh, Indom*lk itu produknya sini juga?”
2. As an intern, there's an unwritten rule that you should say yes to any kind of task you're told. As long as it's still in the work scope, of course. But don't ever say “nggak bisa” even before your supervisor finishes her sentence.
3. Wear decent clothes. They don't have to be black suit and sky-high heels, but please remember this is not your uni. Mini skirt, bright-colored loose tees, flip-flops are better kept away in the closet for the next three months. Even if you're interning at a media outlet, please know your limit.
4. Your supervisor is not your mom. You don't whine, you don't sulk, especially not to this supervisor, who will make your life hell if you ever do those things above.
5. We employees were once college students. We know the tricks of “getting sick” during an important day, or “family affairs” almost every Friday afternoon. Stop. Making. Excuses. Get your social life back after three months.
6. Talk to people from different divisions. They won't bite. In fact, they are the ones who might help you get a job someday. Get out of your comfortable bubble and chat with people in the business. Tag along on external meetings. I found this one very helpful for me back then.
7. It doesn't hurt to know how the copy machine work.
I wasn't the best intern myself, but it was certainly a very memorable experience and proven to be useful in the future. I got my first job right after I graduated thanks to someone I met during the internship. So please, college kids, please stop being stupid and make my day brighter.
Now, the problem is, I don't cope well with slow, menye-menye kids. I just don't have the patience. For God's sake, I made one of the interns cry a few months ago because she simply could not keep up with me, her supervisor.
It's not like I don't understand what it's like being an intern. Thankfully, my uni had two internship programs and I had the chance to work in a real office twice before I graduated. So I know how it feels to be the youngest employee, to not know any single thing about office ethics, and to feel uncomfortably out of place during the first days.
I didn't even know how to use the copy and fax machines back then. But what do you do, kids? You learn. And after a few weeks, you're expected to blend in instead of mumble “Kok aku yang disuruh” every time you receive a task.
So with this note, maybe read these little tips before being an intern. Or maybe pass them to the younger set of kids.
1. Learn about the company before your first day, at least from the web site. Know the products. We're not asking you to memorize our latest net profit, but at least save the embarrassment of “Oh, Indom*lk itu produknya sini juga?”
2. As an intern, there's an unwritten rule that you should say yes to any kind of task you're told. As long as it's still in the work scope, of course. But don't ever say “nggak bisa” even before your supervisor finishes her sentence.
3. Wear decent clothes. They don't have to be black suit and sky-high heels, but please remember this is not your uni. Mini skirt, bright-colored loose tees, flip-flops are better kept away in the closet for the next three months. Even if you're interning at a media outlet, please know your limit.
4. Your supervisor is not your mom. You don't whine, you don't sulk, especially not to this supervisor, who will make your life hell if you ever do those things above.
5. We employees were once college students. We know the tricks of “getting sick” during an important day, or “family affairs” almost every Friday afternoon. Stop. Making. Excuses. Get your social life back after three months.
6. Talk to people from different divisions. They won't bite. In fact, they are the ones who might help you get a job someday. Get out of your comfortable bubble and chat with people in the business. Tag along on external meetings. I found this one very helpful for me back then.
7. It doesn't hurt to know how the copy machine work.
I wasn't the best intern myself, but it was certainly a very memorable experience and proven to be useful in the future. I got my first job right after I graduated thanks to someone I met during the internship. So please, college kids, please stop being stupid and make my day brighter.
Monday, February 13, 2012
About being grateful
I got a lot to be thankful for these days. And I don't think I say it enough. Sometimes I wonder what I did to deserve what I receive, but why fuss over it, right?
Maybe I should just pay it forward.
This is very random.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Two firsts
There's always a first time for everything, and today I got two of those.
This morning, I signed the papers for--get this--The Suryoputros' first property! Alright! Finally, after a year full of options, going back and forth between types of property (goodbye, lousy middle-class apartments in the city), and (I believe) quietly wanting to Jedi-mind-trick each other into another one's favorite location, we chose to buy a land in Bintaro.
It's not much, but hopefully it will be enough for us to build a decent house to live in when we move back to Jakarta years later. Right now, the Ikea catalog keeps flipping itself in my mind, page by page.
Then later in the afternoon, I finally stepped my foot in Balikpapan, my soon-to-be-home, for the weekend. First impression? The city is humbling.
I don't know, but it seems quiet, yet not dead. From the endless row of shops along the roads, you can see the economy is bustling. Yet the traffic seems relaxed, as if there's no rush to go anywhere. I can't help but think how can a big-city girl like me, who is used to crazy traffic and fast-paced hours, can survive.
However, a few hours into staying here, I'm starting to imagine how it will be. And yeah, I'm definitely looking forward to a mellow-out life here, away from the two-star town they call Jakarta.
This morning, I signed the papers for--get this--The Suryoputros' first property! Alright! Finally, after a year full of options, going back and forth between types of property (goodbye, lousy middle-class apartments in the city), and (I believe) quietly wanting to Jedi-mind-trick each other into another one's favorite location, we chose to buy a land in Bintaro.
It's not much, but hopefully it will be enough for us to build a decent house to live in when we move back to Jakarta years later. Right now, the Ikea catalog keeps flipping itself in my mind, page by page.
Then later in the afternoon, I finally stepped my foot in Balikpapan, my soon-to-be-home, for the weekend. First impression? The city is humbling.
I don't know, but it seems quiet, yet not dead. From the endless row of shops along the roads, you can see the economy is bustling. Yet the traffic seems relaxed, as if there's no rush to go anywhere. I can't help but think how can a big-city girl like me, who is used to crazy traffic and fast-paced hours, can survive.
However, a few hours into staying here, I'm starting to imagine how it will be. And yeah, I'm definitely looking forward to a mellow-out life here, away from the two-star town they call Jakarta.
This workload, too, shall pass
My excuse for the lack of updates this time is because I've been busy with moving and with work. At the very same time. Of course there just HAS to be a new dairy factory topping-off ceremony when I'm busy packing and thinking how the hell do we move our lives from Jakarta to Balikpapan, right?
And then, just when moving day is closing, there HAS to be a slight crisis in another milk plant. Plus a magazine to publish. Plus a stack of handover documents to prepare.
But anyway, here's something for me to remember (and to gloat): my magazine, which I believe no one really reads at the office because who reads internal publications in their office, won not one but two awards from the Serikat Penerbit Surat Kabar this week! Hey, that says something, doesn't it?
At least it's what I can contribute to the office before I leave. Funny thing is, I remember just before I left Jakarta Globe, this 8-page story package I co-wrote also had gotten an award from some international publishers' organization in Hong Kong. Definitely a nice memorabilia for me to take.
Despite the urge to just curl up in bed and step away from all the madness, I'm still savoring these last moments of hecticness before I'm faced with household management.
And then, just when moving day is closing, there HAS to be a slight crisis in another milk plant. Plus a magazine to publish. Plus a stack of handover documents to prepare.
But anyway, here's something for me to remember (and to gloat): my magazine, which I believe no one really reads at the office because who reads internal publications in their office, won not one but two awards from the Serikat Penerbit Surat Kabar this week! Hey, that says something, doesn't it?
At least it's what I can contribute to the office before I leave. Funny thing is, I remember just before I left Jakarta Globe, this 8-page story package I co-wrote also had gotten an award from some international publishers' organization in Hong Kong. Definitely a nice memorabilia for me to take.
Despite the urge to just curl up in bed and step away from all the madness, I'm still savoring these last moments of hecticness before I'm faced with household management.
Friday, January 06, 2012
And we'll collect the moments one by one
For all my life, I have always lived under one roof with my family. Even during college years, when everyone else was enjoying their freedom in their rented kosan room (why the hell is it called Kost anyway?). I went to a university located just about 30-minute drive away from home, so my mom would rather pay for my gas money than to pay for a rented accommodation.
Also, for all my life, I have never once dreamed of being a freelancer, let alone a stay-at-home wife. I've always had goals regarding my career, I've always known what I want to achieve, and I've always strived to climb that corporate ladder to the top.
So now, when Bangun got an offer to be placed in his office's Balikpapan headquarter, there's definitely gonna be a huge change in my life. I will be a stay-at-home wife in a land faraway from home.
How do I feel?
I'm excited, I'm nervous, scared, giddy, happy at the same time. I'm nervous 'cos I'm entering the real life of running my own house. I'm excited to see what opportunities Balikpapan will give me. I'm scared 'cos I'll be away from Mom and Dinda. What if I can't cook decent foods? What if I can't pick the right cleaner for the right room in the house? What if I can't iron our clothes and end up leaving burned holes? Will I pay our bills in time?
As for jobs, I'm definitely nervous because now, for at least the next few months, I'm gonna have to rely on freelance gigs that obviously offer no certainty. I'm gonna have to leave this giant consumer goods company that has been enslaving me for the past year. It's not even about the salary 'cos really, the saying “rejeki itu udah diatur” couldn't have been more true in our case. I just hope I'll have enough things to do each day.
And of course, I'm also happy. I'm happy for The Husband, who has scored a promoted position and stationed in the company's HQ, thanks to his hard work for the past year. Now we just gotta be prepared for a real marriage--living with each other 24/7, 365 days a year.
Congratulations, you. I can't help but imagining Bapak smiling proudly at you.
Also, for all my life, I have never once dreamed of being a freelancer, let alone a stay-at-home wife. I've always had goals regarding my career, I've always known what I want to achieve, and I've always strived to climb that corporate ladder to the top.
So now, when Bangun got an offer to be placed in his office's Balikpapan headquarter, there's definitely gonna be a huge change in my life. I will be a stay-at-home wife in a land faraway from home.
How do I feel?
I'm excited, I'm nervous, scared, giddy, happy at the same time. I'm nervous 'cos I'm entering the real life of running my own house. I'm excited to see what opportunities Balikpapan will give me. I'm scared 'cos I'll be away from Mom and Dinda. What if I can't cook decent foods? What if I can't pick the right cleaner for the right room in the house? What if I can't iron our clothes and end up leaving burned holes? Will I pay our bills in time?
As for jobs, I'm definitely nervous because now, for at least the next few months, I'm gonna have to rely on freelance gigs that obviously offer no certainty. I'm gonna have to leave this giant consumer goods company that has been enslaving me for the past year. It's not even about the salary 'cos really, the saying “rejeki itu udah diatur” couldn't have been more true in our case. I just hope I'll have enough things to do each day.
And of course, I'm also happy. I'm happy for The Husband, who has scored a promoted position and stationed in the company's HQ, thanks to his hard work for the past year. Now we just gotta be prepared for a real marriage--living with each other 24/7, 365 days a year.
Congratulations, you. I can't help but imagining Bapak smiling proudly at you.
Monday, January 02, 2012
On a lighter note...
My 2012 resolution: To be more financially organized. And to live a (little) more carefree, unplanned life.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
Here's to the night we felt alive
I know we've outgrown the annual get-togethers;
The party hats and the silly props,
The colorful drinks in colorful cups,
The anxiety of counting down,
With thousands of balloons and butterflies inside,
And trains of laughter as our serenade;
I know we've outgrown all that
Yet always, at this time of the year,
As the trumpets are blaring with joy
And the fireworks illuminate the night sky,
It's you, you, and you who should be around,
With your shades, your halo,
your hat and your crown
Always, at this time of the year I ask,
Have we outgrown the festivity?
The party hats and the silly props,
The colorful drinks in colorful cups,
The anxiety of counting down,
With thousands of balloons and butterflies inside,
And trains of laughter as our serenade;
I know we've outgrown all that
Yet always, at this time of the year,
As the trumpets are blaring with joy
And the fireworks illuminate the night sky,
It's you, you, and you who should be around,
With your shades, your halo,
your hat and your crown
Always, at this time of the year I ask,
Have we outgrown the festivity?
Thursday, December 15, 2011
A little thank-you note
You'll know who your true friends and family are when preparing for a wedding, right up to the D-Day. They're the ones who ask how's everything going and listen to your long answers. They're the ones who put up with your craziness; who answered your every question on the caterer, the outfit, or on the honeymoon even though they haven't been married; who gave you advises even though their own marriage is falling apart.
They're the ones who would go beyond the way to create a surprise bachelorette dinner for you. They would contact everyone from every different circle of friends you're in, make a pretty veil from scratch so you can wear it all through the night, cancel a planned karaoke session just because you want to sit down and have a cup of coffee in the middle of the night, and of course, hand out a penis-shaped straw for every guest as a souvenir.
They're the ones who would stay all day long during the ceremonies, even though on the night before, they had stayed up all night decorating your room. They're the ones who keep saying how beautiful you are, who make sure you have a glass of water in hand when your hair and makeup are being done. They lend you their set of jewelry when the makeup artist didn't bring one that matched your outfit.
They're the ones who would go beyond the way to create a surprise bachelorette dinner for you. They would contact everyone from every different circle of friends you're in, make a pretty veil from scratch so you can wear it all through the night, cancel a planned karaoke session just because you want to sit down and have a cup of coffee in the middle of the night, and of course, hand out a penis-shaped straw for every guest as a souvenir.
They're the ones who would stay all day long during the ceremonies, even though on the night before, they had stayed up all night decorating your room. They're the ones who keep saying how beautiful you are, who make sure you have a glass of water in hand when your hair and makeup are being done. They lend you their set of jewelry when the makeup artist didn't bring one that matched your outfit.
They're the ones who, for God's sake, apply an extra layer of nail polish on your toes, even though no one would pay attention to it.
They're the ones who sat with you, waiting for the Ijab Qabul to finish in the next room. Even though there might be a slight pang in their chest from a similar experience in the same place that didn't end good. But they were still standing by your side, making jokes so you wouldn't feel so tense because the ceremony was late.
They're the ones who walked with you, held your hands steady while you cry your heart out, listening to the whole process. They go look around for a piece of tissue to wipe your tears,
They're the ones who sat with you, waiting for the Ijab Qabul to finish in the next room. Even though there might be a slight pang in their chest from a similar experience in the same place that didn't end good. But they were still standing by your side, making jokes so you wouldn't feel so tense because the ceremony was late.
They're the ones who walked with you, held your hands steady while you cry your heart out, listening to the whole process. They go look around for a piece of tissue to wipe your tears,
They're the ones who run around madly from one point to another during the wedding reception, to make sure everything goes well. They call out groups of people to take a photoshoot with you. They stay throughout the reception, right until everyone's practically gone, barely eating the foods served.
Also, they're the ones who, despite their very busy schedule, would practice traditional dance every weekend with their friends for the wedding. And because it had been ages since their last practice, they came home with bruises and bumps. In the end, they gave one hell of a performance with the dances, leaving the guests in awe.
Also, they're the ones who, despite their very busy schedule, would practice traditional dance every weekend with their friends for the wedding. And because it had been ages since their last practice, they came home with bruises and bumps. In the end, they gave one hell of a performance with the dances, leaving the guests in awe.
And let's not forget the gifts. They're the ones who gave you the most wonderful gifts a bride could ever ask for. They painted you and your husband's silhouette, they gave you the finest wine and jewelry, and of course, they booked you a room in one of the most expensive, most luxurious hotels in town, just so you can have a comfortable rest after the reception.
This post is dedicated to you, Runi, Rozelle, and my little sister Dinda. You guys have your own lives to live, your own problems and day-to-day work, but still went beyond the way for me and the wedding. I love you and I can never thank you enough.
This post is dedicated to you, Runi, Rozelle, and my little sister Dinda. You guys have your own lives to live, your own problems and day-to-day work, but still went beyond the way for me and the wedding. I love you and I can never thank you enough.
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