Here I am, sitting in a hotel room with Marni and her parents. Here are some descriptions of the event.
Vic and Kathleen are both snoring at 10:00 while Vic has the TV remote on his lap. So, I am now watching CSI Sydney, or some terrible equivalent. That is okay seems how we get to finish the wine in their glasses.
Just a side note. There is an Asian equivalent to almost every TV show we have at home. I just saw the advertisement for 'Dicey Driving' which is the Siberian equivalent of Ice Road Truckers.
It is thundering outside and there is a great lightning show.
In the rain, some animals are hanging in the trees and honking like a flock of Canada Geese. It is really friggin' loud. I think they are frogs.
But, what did we do, today. Well, after waking up we get picked up at our hotel room by an elephant. Literally, the stairs up to our rooms are raised and the elephants walk right up. We got to bathe an elephant this morning. I actually touched the bottom of an elephant's foot. Tell me your thinking about what it feels like. Caden sprayed it in the eye and Zoe was really concerned about washing his tusks.
As we watched the baby elephants run around Zoe decided that she was 'bored'. What a shit!
Strange to think that I will celebrate the New Year a full 13 hours before you will. I will wake up and tell you how it looks.
Be safe!
All the best wishes for 2011. Marni and I miss you all. Not equally, but you are all missed in your own little way. It has been a strange Xmas due to the difference in weather and overall feel.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Holidays
Tonight we are spending the night in the Elephant Safari park in Taro, Bali. It is, apparently, some famous place that is the number one place to be. So Julia Roberts stayed here? Who cares that the Prime Minister of Britain came, too? But, then I see that Dolf Lundgren was here in 2003! Holy shit- Dolf Lundgren! The Universal Soldier, himself. Now that is an A-list celebrity.
What does staying here get you? We were picked up by an elephant and taken to dinner. Tomorrow morning, another will come by the room, pick us up and take us to breakfast. It's kind of cool. I haven't been on an elephant since I was a kid. There was that time I was my Buddies wingman at Essie's in University, but elephant might be a little harsh. I want to insert a nasty joke about Vic for having to get his own elephant, but it is his birthday.
Bali is a very interesting place. It is sort of like a tropical Banff. Everybody has a carving shop and sells little trinkets. However, the prices are a little more reasonable. I have trouble seeing the paradise in it, though. I mean, with the white, sandy beaches, tropical rainforests and panoramic vistas something seems to be missing. There is something nice about seeing more Bule, though.
What does staying here get you? We were picked up by an elephant and taken to dinner. Tomorrow morning, another will come by the room, pick us up and take us to breakfast. It's kind of cool. I haven't been on an elephant since I was a kid. There was that time I was my Buddies wingman at Essie's in University, but elephant might be a little harsh. I want to insert a nasty joke about Vic for having to get his own elephant, but it is his birthday.
Bali is a very interesting place. It is sort of like a tropical Banff. Everybody has a carving shop and sells little trinkets. However, the prices are a little more reasonable. I have trouble seeing the paradise in it, though. I mean, with the white, sandy beaches, tropical rainforests and panoramic vistas something seems to be missing. There is something nice about seeing more Bule, though.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Christmas
Well, it is the Christmas holidays. Marni and I are eagerly anticipating Vic and Kathleen's arrival. Yes, even I am awaiting the visit of the Mother-in-law. I am sure she is carrying maple syrup. One of my students thought that was like oil that kept Canadians alive.
It certainly feels like Christmas....with the 30 degree temperatures, the school-wide pool party and frequent deluges. Our predominantly Muslim students were belting out carols about Jesus without skipping a beat. Some Upper School students did a wonderful rendition of 'Smoke on the Water' by Deep Purple for the Fine Arts night.
We had report cards due on Friday, too. If anyone back home wants to complain about the amount of work you do for report cards- SUCK IT UP!! Apparently, our parents (of whom many cannot speak English) will go through our comments with a fine-toothed comb to find mistakes. I am sure that doesn't really happen but the amount of time I went through proofreading comments was staggering. And, because of our 'top notch' computer system there was nary a mistake. I hope you feel the oozing sarcasm from these sentences.
We had a little shindig today for some friends. I am sure it is strange for people to come to school holding bags of liquor. It is really just a regular day for me. We tried a Durian doughnut. It smelled like Blue Cheese and tasted like (what I will assume) shit!
But, Thursday we are off to Bali. I know, I know, screw me for not getting stuck in the driveway or having to shovel snow. But, I must say, a tropical Christmas is very strange.
Special thanks to Wendy, James, Barb and Shawn for sending us the old, ugly candlestick. It was broken in several places but what do you expect, they sent it in September and it arrived this past Friday. They also sent us some rats, tampons and Canadian stickers. Apparently, the candlestick is a hit. Some of our friends really liked it. Unfortunately, it will be evidence in the mail fraud case against them for not correctly identifying the packages contents.
Anyway, Happy Holidays to you all. We miss you very much. Not equally, but you are all missed in varying degrees.
It certainly feels like Christmas....with the 30 degree temperatures, the school-wide pool party and frequent deluges. Our predominantly Muslim students were belting out carols about Jesus without skipping a beat. Some Upper School students did a wonderful rendition of 'Smoke on the Water' by Deep Purple for the Fine Arts night.
We had report cards due on Friday, too. If anyone back home wants to complain about the amount of work you do for report cards- SUCK IT UP!! Apparently, our parents (of whom many cannot speak English) will go through our comments with a fine-toothed comb to find mistakes. I am sure that doesn't really happen but the amount of time I went through proofreading comments was staggering. And, because of our 'top notch' computer system there was nary a mistake. I hope you feel the oozing sarcasm from these sentences.
We had a little shindig today for some friends. I am sure it is strange for people to come to school holding bags of liquor. It is really just a regular day for me. We tried a Durian doughnut. It smelled like Blue Cheese and tasted like (what I will assume) shit!
But, Thursday we are off to Bali. I know, I know, screw me for not getting stuck in the driveway or having to shovel snow. But, I must say, a tropical Christmas is very strange.
Special thanks to Wendy, James, Barb and Shawn for sending us the old, ugly candlestick. It was broken in several places but what do you expect, they sent it in September and it arrived this past Friday. They also sent us some rats, tampons and Canadian stickers. Apparently, the candlestick is a hit. Some of our friends really liked it. Unfortunately, it will be evidence in the mail fraud case against them for not correctly identifying the packages contents.
Anyway, Happy Holidays to you all. We miss you very much. Not equally, but you are all missed in varying degrees.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Ho's
Just sitting here after watching the downloaded Christmas episode of Glee and thought I would give a little update.
This morning Zoe came running to my classroom with some friends and wanted me to see something. I thought it was going to be a huge, hideous insect of some kind but it turned out she wanted to show me that she could finally cross the monkey bars herself. It was a big event until she fell off and broke her wrist. I knew it was broken the second I saw it. She was such a trooper.
Anyway, off to the hospital she went with Marni. Turned out she needed to have surgery done and a pin inserted because the bones had shifted. The American teachers here are pretty enamored with the facilities. It would cost them their first born to get the procedure done on the first born.
Funny enough, though it was a year ago this passed Sunday that Zoe broke her left wrist. So now, she has a matching set. Just in time for Xmas, too. However, she should have the cast off by Xmas which means she should be able to swim in the ocean in Bali.
Just mentioning Xmas. These people, for being 98% Muslim, they really do Xmas right. The carols in the mall are a little to be desired but the decorations are amazing. Way better then home. Just no pork! By the way, check out "No pork" on youtube. It is an Indonesian restaurant. It's good times.
This morning Zoe came running to my classroom with some friends and wanted me to see something. I thought it was going to be a huge, hideous insect of some kind but it turned out she wanted to show me that she could finally cross the monkey bars herself. It was a big event until she fell off and broke her wrist. I knew it was broken the second I saw it. She was such a trooper.
Anyway, off to the hospital she went with Marni. Turned out she needed to have surgery done and a pin inserted because the bones had shifted. The American teachers here are pretty enamored with the facilities. It would cost them their first born to get the procedure done on the first born.
Funny enough, though it was a year ago this passed Sunday that Zoe broke her left wrist. So now, she has a matching set. Just in time for Xmas, too. However, she should have the cast off by Xmas which means she should be able to swim in the ocean in Bali.
Just mentioning Xmas. These people, for being 98% Muslim, they really do Xmas right. The carols in the mall are a little to be desired but the decorations are amazing. Way better then home. Just no pork! By the way, check out "No pork" on youtube. It is an Indonesian restaurant. It's good times.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Out my window
Here are just a few things I am seeing out of my classroom window.
There is one of our 'gardeners' trimming the hedge with a weed wacker. It is, actually, a common way of doing that around here. Earlier in the year we saw that the school had purchased a lawnmower. You should have seen how excited the staff was to see that. They were crouched around it looking at the blades- meanwhile the mower was OPERATING! Myself and the headmaster had to run out and tell them to put shoes on. Funny thing is, we really don't have any lawn around here. It was used more as a slingshot to fire rocks around the schoolyard.
Yesterday, I watched the cleaning staff remove a beehive from behind the gym. The hive was about the size of a nice Xmas turkey. Here though, one would be geared up with a mask and gloves. I've watched Billy the Exterminator- I know what sort of evil pestilance bees can rain down on people. Anyways, these bees were the most unaggressive bees I have seen. However, the fact that all the cleaning staff did was light a cigarette and blow it on the the hive made me a little nervous. I am sure he come out unscathed. I little buzzed from smoking five cigarettes in 10 minutes, but he didn't get stung.
The men behind our apartment have been making great progress on the house behind us. It is interesting to think that these guys actually LIVE in the house as they build it. They have a campfire in what looks to be the garage. They hang their laundry up along the front. We see them walk around in towels after a shower. It funny to see them work as long as possible during a thunderstorm. Truly, unless the lightning hits the building, they will continue to work. Who needs safety? Just get the job done! If only we all thought that way.
Marni and I went to the St. Andrew's Society ball the other night. Common joke: If you want to see what a man wears under his kilt you'd better shine your shoes. It could be possible, though, to get them drunk enough that you might learn, too. We did eat the Haggis. And, it was quite tasty.
At the ball, we did learn the "Traditional Canadian Barn Dance". Everyone thought Marni and I knew it. I didn't know we had one. But, apparently the people from Ontario knew that one- Friggan Liberals!
There is one of our 'gardeners' trimming the hedge with a weed wacker. It is, actually, a common way of doing that around here. Earlier in the year we saw that the school had purchased a lawnmower. You should have seen how excited the staff was to see that. They were crouched around it looking at the blades- meanwhile the mower was OPERATING! Myself and the headmaster had to run out and tell them to put shoes on. Funny thing is, we really don't have any lawn around here. It was used more as a slingshot to fire rocks around the schoolyard.
Yesterday, I watched the cleaning staff remove a beehive from behind the gym. The hive was about the size of a nice Xmas turkey. Here though, one would be geared up with a mask and gloves. I've watched Billy the Exterminator- I know what sort of evil pestilance bees can rain down on people. Anyways, these bees were the most unaggressive bees I have seen. However, the fact that all the cleaning staff did was light a cigarette and blow it on the the hive made me a little nervous. I am sure he come out unscathed. I little buzzed from smoking five cigarettes in 10 minutes, but he didn't get stung.
The men behind our apartment have been making great progress on the house behind us. It is interesting to think that these guys actually LIVE in the house as they build it. They have a campfire in what looks to be the garage. They hang their laundry up along the front. We see them walk around in towels after a shower. It funny to see them work as long as possible during a thunderstorm. Truly, unless the lightning hits the building, they will continue to work. Who needs safety? Just get the job done! If only we all thought that way.
Marni and I went to the St. Andrew's Society ball the other night. Common joke: If you want to see what a man wears under his kilt you'd better shine your shoes. It could be possible, though, to get them drunk enough that you might learn, too. We did eat the Haggis. And, it was quite tasty.
At the ball, we did learn the "Traditional Canadian Barn Dance". Everyone thought Marni and I knew it. I didn't know we had one. But, apparently the people from Ontario knew that one- Friggan Liberals!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Gold
This coming Friday is Lasmi's birthday. Lasmi is the youngest of our two nannies. She will turn 19. According to the lady on staff who is in charge of our staff, she left her town (about a 12 hr drive from here) when she was 16 to start working as a nanny. It is tough to imagine a 16 year old who works upwards of 12 hours per day, 6 days per week for a measly $150 per month. But, that puts her in a 'high end' wage earner bracket.
When asking around for what we should get the nanny the Indonesian staff tells us not to get anything for her. Really, they feel that they are not worthy to enjoy such luxuries. But, there is no convincing Zoe that there will be no birthday gift. Then, in speaking to another Indonesian staff member, she mentioned that many Indonesians by gold when they can. Reason being, they don't go to banks so buying gold jewelry is a way for them to invest. Later, if they need money, they can sell it.
So, off Marni and I went to look for some jewelry for Lasmi. Something we learned today- gold is listed in stores by the weight, not necessarily the price. We saw some gold medallions for sale in a jewelry store (5g, 10g, 25g). Right now, the price of gold is about 325 000 Rp per gram. Try finding some one gram earrings- good luck! Unfortunately for Lasmi, no gold, this year. Apparently, though, there is a market nearby where you can by gold by the gram. I am sure we will find out the 'Bule' price is quite high.
When asking around for what we should get the nanny the Indonesian staff tells us not to get anything for her. Really, they feel that they are not worthy to enjoy such luxuries. But, there is no convincing Zoe that there will be no birthday gift. Then, in speaking to another Indonesian staff member, she mentioned that many Indonesians by gold when they can. Reason being, they don't go to banks so buying gold jewelry is a way for them to invest. Later, if they need money, they can sell it.
So, off Marni and I went to look for some jewelry for Lasmi. Something we learned today- gold is listed in stores by the weight, not necessarily the price. We saw some gold medallions for sale in a jewelry store (5g, 10g, 25g). Right now, the price of gold is about 325 000 Rp per gram. Try finding some one gram earrings- good luck! Unfortunately for Lasmi, no gold, this year. Apparently, though, there is a market nearby where you can by gold by the gram. I am sure we will find out the 'Bule' price is quite high.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Sacrificial Goats
Marni, the kids and I went to a beach town of Pelabuhan Ruta. It reminded us of going to any other mountain town back home. There were little huts, stores and then a little town site and a few hotels. However, instead of huge hotels lining the beach, there were disheveled mom and pop restaurants and kiosks selling snacks and telephones.
One thing that caught our eyes was the pride people have in their property. Of course, we all have it. But, when you see what a house can look like here, you would think to yourself that these people are obviously just happy to have a roof over their head. Man
y of the houses are made of woven bamboo walls, some have thatched roofs. Often, the roofs are made of corrugated tin. But, as we were driving through some small towns I saw people painting or gardening and I thought "How interesting that they do still enjoy what they have." Back home, we might enjoy what we have but we all secretly want a little more. Or are envious of those that have more. I am sure they are envious, too. But, they seem a lot more content with their place in the world. That is good considering that there will be more space at the top for me!Another image that struck us was the goats lining the streets. Everywhere we looked there were three or four goats just hanging around. Sadly, come Wednesday, there will be a few less goats. There is another Muslim holiday where the tradition is to sacrifice a goat and eat it. What brutes! What Archaic traditions! Who could ever imagine a holiday where a helpless animal is fattened up only to be sacrificed, hollowed out and stuffed with other food in order for humans to satisfy themselves? ......and then watch a football game?........and put a rock in their living room? No wonder 98% of Americans shown on Fox news (and 100% of goats) don't like Muslims!!
We were also privy to a number of 'make work' projects for the locals. Definitely, with western economies in the tank our governments can take a few ideas with them. For example:
When part of the road is washed out, instead of fixing the road, a few locals get together to direct traffic across the one lane of the road. Meanwhile, they hold out a collection box to take donations for their service.
Makeshift "toll" roads are erected in random spots along the mountain roads. But really, they are so non-aggressive that you can pass through unscathed.
The lifeguard on the swimming beach also moonlights as parking patrol. There was a large field for parking and about two cars. But, for 20 cents, he will help you back out. I do think that if you don't pay him a small child will "accidentally" be found under your vehicle. Meanwhile, there were 500 people swimming in the water.
Children with umbrellas running around parking lots just hoping it rains so they can cover you as you get out of your car. We would have about two or three of them racing to the car to save us. Fortunately, being an ignorant white person gives me license to not tip Plus, I don't know how much. I did give $5 to the lady who picked up Marni's shoes.
Some other events of the weekend:
Marni left her runners laying in a parking lot. Thank goodness they are so big that when we returned we found two local children playing in one of them.
There was, what seemed to be a local "Corporate challenge". Whoda thunk that Indonesian's can play beach volleyball? There were dancing competitions- a dance similar to the "Electric Slide" line dance was done.
Cows on the beach. Real cows, not fat ladies. Possibly just as funny but less awkward.
We saw an Indonesian Midget. Quite cute.
Don't wear life jackets in the ocean. Good words from the local (french-speaking) surfer guide, Dude.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Blasts from the past
Some things we notice as we walk around Jakarta, especially in the malls.
Bata Shoes- I remember my sister worked at Bata in 1985 or something like that. I don't even know if they still exist in Canada. Not that we could shop there, anyways. Zoe's feet are now the same size as the nannies.
Fido Dido- Remember the skinny stick person from the 7-Up commercials in the 90's. Marni mentioned that Kyle was crazy about him. Well, he is still making it over in Asia. Kind of like Micheal Jackson did. I guess, when something doesn't work, send it to Asia and they will fall in love with it.
I have already written about the Alberta 75th anniversary logo. Haven't seen another one, though.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers- Yup, they still exist. Just the females are not near as hot as they were when I was 12.
Crocs- not that old but are probably the most common shoes here. I know what your secretly saying to yourself "But, I love crocs!". But, that is because you are a mental patient. We had a parent, very wealthy, with what must have been a $10 000 Rolex dripping with diamonds on her wrist, diamonds in her ears with more Karats then Bugs Bunny and a $30 pair of crocs. I know it makes me gay, but I notice things like that. Thanks Kathleen!
Some other things going on recently:
We were able to score tickets to the Marine Corps 235th birthday bash. Formal attire and freely poured, free booze. What a great night. Well worth the 1.5 hours in traffic. Marni was able wear her beautifully made, hand-crafted, custom fitted dress (which cost $175). She looked great and was able to win a bet with other ladies at our table by getting a piece of the B-day cake fed to her by an American Marine while holding Old Glory (that's the flag for those with twisted thoughts).
I realized that wearing a Flames hockey jersey to the local "NBA" games will definitely get the people looking. Granted, if I wear an Oilers Jersey I get booed. Weird how international that is. Another teacher, here wore her Raptors jersey and none of our students had any clue who the team was. There are only five teams in any sport that are recognized here.
1) Lakers (in fact, non of my students knew who the Celtics)
2) Yankees
3) Red Sox
4) Manchester United
5) Real Madrid
No other sports teams exist here. But, F1 racing is nuts.
Marni had her first Bajhi ride (that's the three-wheeled half motorbike, half-car that is the local taxi). It was fun. We were ripped off or commonly known as the "White-person tax" (keep it mind that ripped off cost me $3 instead of $2). And...the motor gets so hot that your shoes will melt in the backseat.
Some of our students are getting lazier. They are now waiting for their nannies to come to the classrooms after school and carry their bags to the car. Ironically, the student most guilty of this crime is also the fattest kid in school. Whoda thunk?
Bata Shoes- I remember my sister worked at Bata in 1985 or something like that. I don't even know if they still exist in Canada. Not that we could shop there, anyways. Zoe's feet are now the same size as the nannies.
Fido Dido- Remember the skinny stick person from the 7-Up commercials in the 90's. Marni mentioned that Kyle was crazy about him. Well, he is still making it over in Asia. Kind of like Micheal Jackson did. I guess, when something doesn't work, send it to Asia and they will fall in love with it.
I have already written about the Alberta 75th anniversary logo. Haven't seen another one, though.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers- Yup, they still exist. Just the females are not near as hot as they were when I was 12.
Crocs- not that old but are probably the most common shoes here. I know what your secretly saying to yourself "But, I love crocs!". But, that is because you are a mental patient. We had a parent, very wealthy, with what must have been a $10 000 Rolex dripping with diamonds on her wrist, diamonds in her ears with more Karats then Bugs Bunny and a $30 pair of crocs. I know it makes me gay, but I notice things like that. Thanks Kathleen!
Some other things going on recently:
We were able to score tickets to the Marine Corps 235th birthday bash. Formal attire and freely poured, free booze. What a great night. Well worth the 1.5 hours in traffic. Marni was able wear her beautifully made, hand-crafted, custom fitted dress (which cost $175). She looked great and was able to win a bet with other ladies at our table by getting a piece of the B-day cake fed to her by an American Marine while holding Old Glory (that's the flag for those with twisted thoughts).
I realized that wearing a Flames hockey jersey to the local "NBA" games will definitely get the people looking. Granted, if I wear an Oilers Jersey I get booed. Weird how international that is. Another teacher, here wore her Raptors jersey and none of our students had any clue who the team was. There are only five teams in any sport that are recognized here.
1) Lakers (in fact, non of my students knew who the Celtics)
2) Yankees
3) Red Sox
4) Manchester United
5) Real Madrid
No other sports teams exist here. But, F1 racing is nuts.
Marni had her first Bajhi ride (that's the three-wheeled half motorbike, half-car that is the local taxi). It was fun. We were ripped off or commonly known as the "White-person tax" (keep it mind that ripped off cost me $3 instead of $2). And...the motor gets so hot that your shoes will melt in the backseat.
Some of our students are getting lazier. They are now waiting for their nannies to come to the classrooms after school and carry their bags to the car. Ironically, the student most guilty of this crime is also the fattest kid in school. Whoda thunk?
Sunday, October 31, 2010
The zoo
A tough day, today as we went to the Jakarta zoo. It was just the kids and I as Marni is still in Malaysia on a conference. So, I thought I would ask the nannies (Fifi and Lasmi) if they wanted to go. They had never been to the zoo before so I thought it would be a nice treat for them.
One thing to understand about Jakarta, in general, is that signs are merely suggestions. That goes for road signs, stop lights or any sort of warning sign. Nobody gets angry if you do something wrong, so, do what you want at your convenience. I bring this up because of the large "Do not feed the animals" signs posted everywhere. What does it mean to the average Indonesian? Feed the animals whatever you have in your hand- potato chips, crackers, fruit. In fact, it can be translated into 'I'll have my three-year old do it for me in case I can snap a photo'. It does not matter that these are potentially dangerous animals.
I'm not going to lie. I have fallen victim to the 'photo op' since getting here. It is not everyday that a person can hold an orangutan or pet dolphins. But, when it comes to feeding the animals that are not used to being fed by the average person, I draw a line. In fact, I got a great one of Caden holding a snake. Not a tiny one, either. I was rather scared for the snake until the owner slapped it in the face to show how docile it was.
I did, at one point, yell at a person who was hanging his child (younger then Caden) over the railing and handing some baboon a cracker. When you see on a sign that these animals are endangered there is little reason why when you see idiots like this. It is similar to the people here on the side of the road with monkeys wearing kids clothes and riding wooden horses. People throw money at them and encourage them to get more monkeys.
Sadly, though, many of the primates come down to the front of the cages and put their hands out because they are used to getting fed. It really is sad. I wished that one of the monkeys grabbed a person and smashed their heads into cage bars. That would have been a good photo!
There was a huge Orangutan enclosure where people were actually throwing food OVER the 'Do not feed the animals' sign. Now I know why monkeys fling shit. They are out of things to throw back.
Overall, though, the zoo is quite nice. They are building some large areas for certain animals. There is a huge variety of animals and they have a beautiful primate park- problem with it is that you walk all over the place and rarely see a primate.
Once more we were followed by the paparazzi. This time I got involved, too. People were friendly about it but with the kids I started to cover their faces when I saw people lining up for photos. At one point there was a huge silverback gorilla, maybe 20 feet away and there were twenty people snapping pictures of Caden and Zoe playing on the rocks. The nannies were very good though. They started telling people that pictures were 10 000 Rp, apiece. Some were actually offended while others got the message. People were yelling at us to stop for photos and I had to tell them to leave us alone. We just wanted to enjoy the day. You would think they can't find white people on the internet.
There was one point where this older lady kept saddling up close to me. It was crowded, so I thought nothing of it. Then she did it again and I could tell by the expression on her face she was posing. When I looked to my right, there was her friend lining up a shot. I should have planted a kiss on her cheek or grabbed her ass!
I tell you, next time I hear on the news that some celebrity smacked a cameraman....I cheering for the celebrity. I know they get paid millions of dollars and have given up a lot of their privacy. But really? Slap the cameramen!
One thing to understand about Jakarta, in general, is that signs are merely suggestions. That goes for road signs, stop lights or any sort of warning sign. Nobody gets angry if you do something wrong, so, do what you want at your convenience. I bring this up because of the large "Do not feed the animals" signs posted everywhere. What does it mean to the average Indonesian? Feed the animals whatever you have in your hand- potato chips, crackers, fruit. In fact, it can be translated into 'I'll have my three-year old do it for me in case I can snap a photo'. It does not matter that these are potentially dangerous animals.
I'm not going to lie. I have fallen victim to the 'photo op' since getting here. It is not everyday that a person can hold an orangutan or pet dolphins. But, when it comes to feeding the animals that are not used to being fed by the average person, I draw a line. In fact, I got a great one of Caden holding a snake. Not a tiny one, either. I was rather scared for the snake until the owner slapped it in the face to show how docile it was.
I did, at one point, yell at a person who was hanging his child (younger then Caden) over the railing and handing some baboon a cracker. When you see on a sign that these animals are endangered there is little reason why when you see idiots like this. It is similar to the people here on the side of the road with monkeys wearing kids clothes and riding wooden horses. People throw money at them and encourage them to get more monkeys.
Sadly, though, many of the primates come down to the front of the cages and put their hands out because they are used to getting fed. It really is sad. I wished that one of the monkeys grabbed a person and smashed their heads into cage bars. That would have been a good photo!
There was a huge Orangutan enclosure where people were actually throwing food OVER the 'Do not feed the animals' sign. Now I know why monkeys fling shit. They are out of things to throw back.
Overall, though, the zoo is quite nice. They are building some large areas for certain animals. There is a huge variety of animals and they have a beautiful primate park- problem with it is that you walk all over the place and rarely see a primate.
Once more we were followed by the paparazzi. This time I got involved, too. People were friendly about it but with the kids I started to cover their faces when I saw people lining up for photos. At one point there was a huge silverback gorilla, maybe 20 feet away and there were twenty people snapping pictures of Caden and Zoe playing on the rocks. The nannies were very good though. They started telling people that pictures were 10 000 Rp, apiece. Some were actually offended while others got the message. People were yelling at us to stop for photos and I had to tell them to leave us alone. We just wanted to enjoy the day. You would think they can't find white people on the internet.
There was one point where this older lady kept saddling up close to me. It was crowded, so I thought nothing of it. Then she did it again and I could tell by the expression on her face she was posing. When I looked to my right, there was her friend lining up a shot. I should have planted a kiss on her cheek or grabbed her ass!
I tell you, next time I hear on the news that some celebrity smacked a cameraman....I cheering for the celebrity. I know they get paid millions of dollars and have given up a lot of their privacy. But really? Slap the cameramen!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Superstitious
Seems how I have received a number of facebook posts regarding the fact that this October has 5 Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Somehow, that fact will provide me with great wealth if I use it as my facebook status. I find it hard to believe that Chinese feng shui cares about status I share with others. However, I thought I would share with you some of the stories we have heard regarding certain superstitions.
Our students were sharing some of their beliefs regarding spirits- which are very important in Indonesia. We were asking about the Gamalan, which is a musical instrument (or series of instruments). Basically, it is a bunch of brass pots, cymbals and gongs. In fact, that is the origin of our gongs (gong show). It is a traditional instrument of Indonesia. Sounds like a bunch of tin cans, but traditionally important.
Anyway, Marni and I noticed how the lights are always on around the gamalan. Apparently, spirits of the gamalan get upset if they are in the dark. So, the staff here always leave the lights on. Also, the gamalan needs to be alone. It doesn't like being surrounded by other instruments. So, in the school, we have a room specifically for the gamalan. Ironically, the night we heard this story, I noticed that the gamalan lights were off. I sneaked in, turned them on (the lights, not the spirits) and gained some brownie points (I hope).
Another superstition surrounding instruments is that you cannot play them alone at night. There is, apparently, something haunting and evil about the sounds instruments make and you cannot play them alone during the evening. Having a band, fine. I guess, though, not playing with yourself at night could be a reason there are 240 million Indonesians.
One of the Indonesian staff members was sharing a story with Marni about how she will not travel to Bali. The last time she was there, she had all kinds of sores on her feet, she was sick and just had a horrible experience. Allegedly, the day she left she was fine. According to her (and I am sure many scientific minds) a spirit in Bali fell in love with her. When it realized it could not have her, it made her sick. Weird. She will never return to Bali.
Even when we had our lock-in, we played a game called Zombie tag. Many of the students were very careful what they said about Zombies. They have a healthy respect for the dead. Nothing wrong with that. They are totally into watching every type of horror movie, but they won't disrespect the dead.
I am unsure as to what they think of, and how they celebrate Halloween. I will find out this weekend.
Our students were sharing some of their beliefs regarding spirits- which are very important in Indonesia. We were asking about the Gamalan, which is a musical instrument (or series of instruments). Basically, it is a bunch of brass pots, cymbals and gongs. In fact, that is the origin of our gongs (gong show). It is a traditional instrument of Indonesia. Sounds like a bunch of tin cans, but traditionally important.
Anyway, Marni and I noticed how the lights are always on around the gamalan. Apparently, spirits of the gamalan get upset if they are in the dark. So, the staff here always leave the lights on. Also, the gamalan needs to be alone. It doesn't like being surrounded by other instruments. So, in the school, we have a room specifically for the gamalan. Ironically, the night we heard this story, I noticed that the gamalan lights were off. I sneaked in, turned them on (the lights, not the spirits) and gained some brownie points (I hope).
Another superstition surrounding instruments is that you cannot play them alone at night. There is, apparently, something haunting and evil about the sounds instruments make and you cannot play them alone during the evening. Having a band, fine. I guess, though, not playing with yourself at night could be a reason there are 240 million Indonesians.
One of the Indonesian staff members was sharing a story with Marni about how she will not travel to Bali. The last time she was there, she had all kinds of sores on her feet, she was sick and just had a horrible experience. Allegedly, the day she left she was fine. According to her (and I am sure many scientific minds) a spirit in Bali fell in love with her. When it realized it could not have her, it made her sick. Weird. She will never return to Bali.
Even when we had our lock-in, we played a game called Zombie tag. Many of the students were very careful what they said about Zombies. They have a healthy respect for the dead. Nothing wrong with that. They are totally into watching every type of horror movie, but they won't disrespect the dead.
I am unsure as to what they think of, and how they celebrate Halloween. I will find out this weekend.
Friday, October 22, 2010
....ummmm
I am sure you are all missing what I have to say so I will ramble.
Some things that have happened, recently:
The extra security from out front have left. There has been a lease extension until June 30th for us. After that we need to find somewhere else to have a school It is a shame, the campus is beautiful and the pool is amazing. Thank goodness Shamus got in for a few pictures before they all left. In fact, he scared the shit out of the security. They weren't sure what to think.
Caden got a report card from preschool. He is doing well. He can do "Head, shoulders, knees and toes"in Mandarin. Really cute if you have enough ice cream to make him do it. He is, apparently, very shy to everyone, though. Everybody in the area knows him, but he ignores them all. Obviously, some of Grandma's 'fear of everything including drowning, pumas and gullycats' has rubbed off. People will yell hello to him from across the street and he will not acknowledge them, at all. He is very popular though. No slushies in the face like on Glee.
Zoe was having a tough time, recently. She has told Marni and I that she wants more friends. She has a few and they are wonderful kids but she wants the older, mean girls to like her, too. She has started to out in class (as much as a grade 1 will do) in order to make them like her. But, after a little chat, that should not be a problem. The girls who is giving her a rough time is on a behaviour modification program because she is a real snotbag.
Although, Zoe did do a self portrait of herself in art class, recently where she coloured her hair black. She is realizing that she is very different and, of course, wants to be like everyone else. It is kind of sad to see how strong those feelings are at such an early age. I feel for many of you that were probably (definitely) losers in school (you know who I'm talking about). Only the cool kids had huge, tinted glasses and feathered hair- but I do know of some that had a mullet until 2004....Simon. But, it was a cool mullet and I am sure he has the hair in a Ziploc bag at home. I am confident there will be some witty banter in response to this but mark my words.....
I realized that some of my grade 8 Korean students would still need booster seats in Alberta. They only weigh about 60lbs. That just makes me chuckle to think about that- a 15 year in a booster seat.
We had a 'lock-in' last week where the Upper school kids stayed in the school all night. We realized that Zoe is taller then 3 of the grade 6's and weighs more then most of the grades 6's and 8's. She is actually having to buy woman's shoes, too. Her feet are like flippers. Caden is not far behind (not about buying woman's shoes but it wouldn't surprise me). Oh, and I fell out of a tree. It hurt. I don't bounce like I used to.
The rainy season is approaching. Each day, about an hour of the heaviest rain you've ever seen will fall. The Thunder is amazing. But, if it rains for two or three days they will probably have to shut the school down because of the flooding.
You all hear about any volcanoes well before we do. None are close, but thank you for the concern.
I also just realized that if I was writing this blog from my living room in St. Albert, none of you would care. Shame on you.
Some things that have happened, recently:
The extra security from out front have left. There has been a lease extension until June 30th for us. After that we need to find somewhere else to have a school It is a shame, the campus is beautiful and the pool is amazing. Thank goodness Shamus got in for a few pictures before they all left. In fact, he scared the shit out of the security. They weren't sure what to think.
Caden got a report card from preschool. He is doing well. He can do "Head, shoulders, knees and toes"in Mandarin. Really cute if you have enough ice cream to make him do it. He is, apparently, very shy to everyone, though. Everybody in the area knows him, but he ignores them all. Obviously, some of Grandma's 'fear of everything including drowning, pumas and gullycats' has rubbed off. People will yell hello to him from across the street and he will not acknowledge them, at all. He is very popular though. No slushies in the face like on Glee.
Zoe was having a tough time, recently. She has told Marni and I that she wants more friends. She has a few and they are wonderful kids but she wants the older, mean girls to like her, too. She has started to out in class (as much as a grade 1 will do) in order to make them like her. But, after a little chat, that should not be a problem. The girls who is giving her a rough time is on a behaviour modification program because she is a real snotbag.
Although, Zoe did do a self portrait of herself in art class, recently where she coloured her hair black. She is realizing that she is very different and, of course, wants to be like everyone else. It is kind of sad to see how strong those feelings are at such an early age. I feel for many of you that were probably (definitely) losers in school (you know who I'm talking about). Only the cool kids had huge, tinted glasses and feathered hair- but I do know of some that had a mullet until 2004....Simon. But, it was a cool mullet and I am sure he has the hair in a Ziploc bag at home. I am confident there will be some witty banter in response to this but mark my words.....
I realized that some of my grade 8 Korean students would still need booster seats in Alberta. They only weigh about 60lbs. That just makes me chuckle to think about that- a 15 year in a booster seat.
We had a 'lock-in' last week where the Upper school kids stayed in the school all night. We realized that Zoe is taller then 3 of the grade 6's and weighs more then most of the grades 6's and 8's. She is actually having to buy woman's shoes, too. Her feet are like flippers. Caden is not far behind (not about buying woman's shoes but it wouldn't surprise me). Oh, and I fell out of a tree. It hurt. I don't bounce like I used to.
The rainy season is approaching. Each day, about an hour of the heaviest rain you've ever seen will fall. The Thunder is amazing. But, if it rains for two or three days they will probably have to shut the school down because of the flooding.
You all hear about any volcanoes well before we do. None are close, but thank you for the concern.
I also just realized that if I was writing this blog from my living room in St. Albert, none of you would care. Shame on you.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Fantasy world
Today in my science class we were using containers filled with sand as some weight. Unfortunately, some students spilled their sand on my floor. No big deal. I walked down to where the 'Bees' keep their supplies and grabbed a broom and dustpan. I brought it back to the room and one of the students asked "Why don't you get the servants to clean it up?". My reply "Because the servants did not spill the sand." (I know, I thought it was witty, too.)
One of the students started to clean and truly had no idea how to hold a broom. Some of the others were laughing at him until I asked them to do it. I realized at that moment that many of them had never swept a floor (this was a grade 7 class). Eventually I showed them how to hold a broom and they lined up to have a turn.
Then, another group spilled some and I asked another group which one had never swept a floor. A young girl reluctantly put her hand up. Talk about a 'teachable moment'. I made her tell her mom when she showed up about the amazing experience she had. But then, another quiet girl came up and whispered "Can I have a try?". It was like a ride at Disneyland! They were so excited to sweep a floor. Keep that in perspective when you are shoveling tons of ankle deep, wet snow. Some people NEVER get to experience the joy you have at that moment!
Another student likened it to living in a fantasy world. They truly have no concept of reality because everything has been done for them.
In fact, recently, a student's nanny was hit by a car (realize, when I say 'hit' it means glanced and by 'car' I mean scooter traveling at 12km/h) when getting out in the morning in front of the school. There she was getting helped into the school, bleeding and limping and the student for whom she worked so carefully muttered to her "Where is my lunch, Bitch?". I added the 'bitch' part for literary effect, but you get the point.
All in all, another eventful day. And.....I do have it on good authority that you can get a woman for $3 and a "woman" with an Adam's apple for $5. I don't why the latter is more expensive. A person needs to keep learning, everyday.
One of the students started to clean and truly had no idea how to hold a broom. Some of the others were laughing at him until I asked them to do it. I realized at that moment that many of them had never swept a floor (this was a grade 7 class). Eventually I showed them how to hold a broom and they lined up to have a turn.
Then, another group spilled some and I asked another group which one had never swept a floor. A young girl reluctantly put her hand up. Talk about a 'teachable moment'. I made her tell her mom when she showed up about the amazing experience she had. But then, another quiet girl came up and whispered "Can I have a try?". It was like a ride at Disneyland! They were so excited to sweep a floor. Keep that in perspective when you are shoveling tons of ankle deep, wet snow. Some people NEVER get to experience the joy you have at that moment!
Another student likened it to living in a fantasy world. They truly have no concept of reality because everything has been done for them.
In fact, recently, a student's nanny was hit by a car (realize, when I say 'hit' it means glanced and by 'car' I mean scooter traveling at 12km/h) when getting out in the morning in front of the school. There she was getting helped into the school, bleeding and limping and the student for whom she worked so carefully muttered to her "Where is my lunch, Bitch?". I added the 'bitch' part for literary effect, but you get the point.
All in all, another eventful day. And.....I do have it on good authority that you can get a woman for $3 and a "woman" with an Adam's apple for $5. I don't why the latter is more expensive. A person needs to keep learning, everyday.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Aftermath
Seems that because we have had a rash of trees falling down in the rain the neighbours have decided to cut all of the trees on the boulevard down. It is a shame. There are some amazingly large, beautiful trees there and within a day they have been cut into firewood.
I weep for trees. Crap......I sound like I'm from the lower mainland!
By the way- the hearts are gone. I am afraid to ask what they did with them. Although, I did see many of the Indonesian staff holding care packages.
I weep for trees. Crap......I sound like I'm from the lower mainland!
By the way- the hearts are gone. I am afraid to ask what they did with them. Although, I did see many of the Indonesian staff holding care packages.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Dissection
Today was my first dissection in another country. I have done many in the past, but never had the troubles like here.
First, the school has barely any supplies. I found a few scissors, one or two rustly scalpels and that is it. I tried looking for scalpels but what the hell is scalpel in Indonesian? So, I ended up at a 'Staples' type place and bought some cheap exacto knives. Try cutting through a heart with that!
There were no dissecting trays, either. So, I had to buy some plastic plates for students to cut on. That doesn't seem so funny until you realize that hearts we were using were beef hearts and were about the size of your head.
In the past, when I have done the heart dissection I would typically use pig hearts. They are smaller and a more 'human sized'. But, try finding pig hearts in a Muslim country (pigs have no necks). Good luck. So, beef hearts it is.
So, the students, I don't think' have ever performed a dissection but they were quite excited. Maybe it was me in my lab coat, but needless to say they were giddy. Then, out of an ice-packed Coleman cooler I pulled out a heart. Again, it was about the size of my head, covered in fat and I asked the butcher to leave on as much 'goodness' as possible.
Now, I don't know how hard it is to get some hearts in these parts. I would assume many of them get sold as food. But, I think some of these hearts had been sitting around for a while. The smell was unbelievable. Some hearts had a greenish tinge to them and smelled like a dogs ass (before you reply, the answer is yes).
I did my dissection at about 8:30 this morning and as I write this at 1:30 they are still sitting in the Coleman cooler that is not as ice-packed as it should be.
First, the school has barely any supplies. I found a few scissors, one or two rustly scalpels and that is it. I tried looking for scalpels but what the hell is scalpel in Indonesian? So, I ended up at a 'Staples' type place and bought some cheap exacto knives. Try cutting through a heart with that!
There were no dissecting trays, either. So, I had to buy some plastic plates for students to cut on. That doesn't seem so funny until you realize that hearts we were using were beef hearts and were about the size of your head.
In the past, when I have done the heart dissection I would typically use pig hearts. They are smaller and a more 'human sized'. But, try finding pig hearts in a Muslim country (pigs have no necks). Good luck. So, beef hearts it is.
So, the students, I don't think' have ever performed a dissection but they were quite excited. Maybe it was me in my lab coat, but needless to say they were giddy. Then, out of an ice-packed Coleman cooler I pulled out a heart. Again, it was about the size of my head, covered in fat and I asked the butcher to leave on as much 'goodness' as possible.
Now, I don't know how hard it is to get some hearts in these parts. I would assume many of them get sold as food. But, I think some of these hearts had been sitting around for a while. The smell was unbelievable. Some hearts had a greenish tinge to them and smelled like a dogs ass (before you reply, the answer is yes).
I did my dissection at about 8:30 this morning and as I write this at 1:30 they are still sitting in the Coleman cooler that is not as ice-packed as it should be.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Village of Idiots
How there are 240 million Indonesians I have no idea. Today, after school, there was quite a rainstorm. Another tree on campus fell down- this time, over the back fence and across the road. Into overdrive went our bumblebees and Indonesian staff.
For some reason, I am unable to upload pictures to this blog, but let me tell you the situation.
Fallen tree
Electrical storm
20 Indonesian standing on the street.
Live electrical wires- 220 volts minimum. (But it's okay, they were coated in rubber)
Man, no shoes, with chainsaw, standing on aluminum ladder, ladder in puddle.
Man, with chainsaw, cutting large tree that has fallen over said live electrical lines.
Me, checking to see if my CPR is up to date.
Nobody was hurt. Phew!
For some reason, I am unable to upload pictures to this blog, but let me tell you the situation.
Fallen tree
Electrical storm
20 Indonesian standing on the street.
Live electrical wires- 220 volts minimum. (But it's okay, they were coated in rubber)
Man, no shoes, with chainsaw, standing on aluminum ladder, ladder in puddle.
Man, with chainsaw, cutting large tree that has fallen over said live electrical lines.
Me, checking to see if my CPR is up to date.
Nobody was hurt. Phew!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Golfing- Part Deux
This place was not so exciting- there were no caddies preening themselves like cats on a wall. All the damn caddies were male! What's with that? Although, I did better my score by about 10 shots. I would hate to think there is a correlation.
This course was called Jagorawi, close to a city called Bogor- just south of Jakarta. The area is filled with courses- kind of like Edmonton or Lethbridge where there is one every 25 km.
The golf is fine- I am taking divots I have never experienced before. The ground is so wet that 'getting under the ball' means about 3 inches under it.
I was assigned a little caddie named Sarki. Cute little fella- kind of like a chubby teddy bear. I originally had him carrying my clubs and would walk the course but I was advised that I would kill him with the hills on the course. I figured "I am paying this guy a good $1.50, he can damn well carry clubs. I've been doing it for nothing all these years." But, I caved.
Sarki and I set off on what turned out to be a beautiful course. I shot low gross for the group. It was gross, too.
The fun thing about golf here is the extras.
1) You see random villagers walking the course. Some are harvesting rice that grows in between holes. Some are swimming in the most disgusting river you have ever seen. Others are carrying firewood and other grasses for home. You will be walking along and this random person just walks across the fairway. I would not be surprised one day to see one herding some goats.
2) Village kids peddling their wares. They sell juice, food and golf balls (that you never buy because they have a counterfeit golf ball industry, here). Realize, though, there are about 20 people on every hole. Some of the kids sit and cheer you on from the tee box. Others wave flags to tell you the ball is out of bounds or if it is safe to hit. I was advised to lay-up on one hole by some random stranger- he was right! I don't think any of these people are paid by course, though. There are security guards on every hole, too. You never feel unsafe.
3) One of the best things is that you never lose a ball. I can duck hook a drive a mile in the jungle and some kids will walk out with my exact ball! Give the kid 20 cents and off you go. You hit one in the water and it's like piranhas feeding.
On the back nine it started to drizzle rain. Sarki went into overdrive. He was sticking my clubs under his shirt to keep the grips dry. Wiping the seat on the cart. Holding my golf glove while I putted. He was a good guy.
Overall, I shot well and Sarki made $15.
This course was called Jagorawi, close to a city called Bogor- just south of Jakarta. The area is filled with courses- kind of like Edmonton or Lethbridge where there is one every 25 km.
The golf is fine- I am taking divots I have never experienced before. The ground is so wet that 'getting under the ball' means about 3 inches under it.
I was assigned a little caddie named Sarki. Cute little fella- kind of like a chubby teddy bear. I originally had him carrying my clubs and would walk the course but I was advised that I would kill him with the hills on the course. I figured "I am paying this guy a good $1.50, he can damn well carry clubs. I've been doing it for nothing all these years." But, I caved.
Sarki and I set off on what turned out to be a beautiful course. I shot low gross for the group. It was gross, too.
The fun thing about golf here is the extras.
1) You see random villagers walking the course. Some are harvesting rice that grows in between holes. Some are swimming in the most disgusting river you have ever seen. Others are carrying firewood and other grasses for home. You will be walking along and this random person just walks across the fairway. I would not be surprised one day to see one herding some goats.
2) Village kids peddling their wares. They sell juice, food and golf balls (that you never buy because they have a counterfeit golf ball industry, here). Realize, though, there are about 20 people on every hole. Some of the kids sit and cheer you on from the tee box. Others wave flags to tell you the ball is out of bounds or if it is safe to hit. I was advised to lay-up on one hole by some random stranger- he was right! I don't think any of these people are paid by course, though. There are security guards on every hole, too. You never feel unsafe.
3) One of the best things is that you never lose a ball. I can duck hook a drive a mile in the jungle and some kids will walk out with my exact ball! Give the kid 20 cents and off you go. You hit one in the water and it's like piranhas feeding.
On the back nine it started to drizzle rain. Sarki went into overdrive. He was sticking my clubs under his shirt to keep the grips dry. Wiping the seat on the cart. Holding my golf glove while I putted. He was a good guy.
Overall, I shot well and Sarki made $15.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
What is happening?
Alright, here is a new rundown of the latest events here at the school.
The security guards from the landowner (Summarecon) are still there. Why? Nobody really knows. They are a bunch of guys, probably being paid $5 per day to wear fancy uniforms. Basically, they cannot touch us or enter the property. What will happen later is some political party will pay them the same $5 to dress up in Red and support their party. Then the next day they will wear blue shirts. And, so it goes on.
One of the major hurdles in us buying the school land was the zoning. Summarecon wanted NJIS to pay commercial rate (about $15 million). But, NJIS wanted to pay public rate because is was zoned that way. Anyway, through negotiations there were clauses put into the contract and the talking stalled, we ran out our lease and the security moved in.
The parents and teachers have banded together to make sure that the school stays open. One of the arguments that Summarecon made is that if we are not teaching, then there is no school and the land is more expensive because it is no longer public. So, by us canceling school last week it showed that we were not a school. So, that is why we had to hurry back.
Some of the parents who include the Chief of Police, Head of the Indonesian Bar Association and other high profile individuals have vowed to protect teachers (and our contracts) if anything happens. In this culture, to be a Guru (teacher) is very high profile. We are paid shit, but the respect is very high. I wish respect paid the mortgage.
As it stands now, we are still trying to buy the land. The money is finalized. The papers just need to be signed. We should be able to finish out the year if we can't buy the land. Next year is a different story.
But, I have just heard that one of the parents and our Head of School just left to go buy more land. The plan was to fill this place up with students and eventually move to a larger campus. Maybe next year we will have an entirely new school.
The security guards from the landowner (Summarecon) are still there. Why? Nobody really knows. They are a bunch of guys, probably being paid $5 per day to wear fancy uniforms. Basically, they cannot touch us or enter the property. What will happen later is some political party will pay them the same $5 to dress up in Red and support their party. Then the next day they will wear blue shirts. And, so it goes on.
One of the major hurdles in us buying the school land was the zoning. Summarecon wanted NJIS to pay commercial rate (about $15 million). But, NJIS wanted to pay public rate because is was zoned that way. Anyway, through negotiations there were clauses put into the contract and the talking stalled, we ran out our lease and the security moved in.
The parents and teachers have banded together to make sure that the school stays open. One of the arguments that Summarecon made is that if we are not teaching, then there is no school and the land is more expensive because it is no longer public. So, by us canceling school last week it showed that we were not a school. So, that is why we had to hurry back.
Some of the parents who include the Chief of Police, Head of the Indonesian Bar Association and other high profile individuals have vowed to protect teachers (and our contracts) if anything happens. In this culture, to be a Guru (teacher) is very high profile. We are paid shit, but the respect is very high. I wish respect paid the mortgage.
As it stands now, we are still trying to buy the land. The money is finalized. The papers just need to be signed. We should be able to finish out the year if we can't buy the land. Next year is a different story.
But, I have just heard that one of the parents and our Head of School just left to go buy more land. The plan was to fill this place up with students and eventually move to a larger campus. Maybe next year we will have an entirely new school.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Security photos
Just a few pics of the security outside of the campus. They are allowing us in and not creating any sorts of problems.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Cute and sad
Well, we have been removed from the school as per my last post. Apparently, when you don't pay the 11 cents rent people get pissed. We were told to leave by 5:00 pm. The nannies (Fifi and Lasmi) did an amazing job packing up the clothes. We didn't take everything, but it is all packed up in case we are able to get back and grab stuff. So much for the plants.
What is kind of refreshing is that one of the teachers, Ruth, was teaching on that tall ship from Nova Scotia that sank off the coast of Brazil, last year. She keeps many things in perspective when situations arise. Because she was sitting in a life raft for many hours bailing away, she keeps you grounded about what you need to take with you. All of her stuff is at the bottom of the Atlantic. I guess you learn what is important- lesson 1: don't keep cash in a sock drawer.
What is cute is that we brought the nannies with us. They have never stayed in a hotel before. They were scared and excited about the day. I think they are worried about their jobs- so they should, they are nervous for the children- good, but they get to watch TV- hurray.
I will be interested to their sleeping arrangements. They already tried to have me remove the mattresses so they could sleep on the "mattress under the bed". They were going to sleep on the box spring and give the kids the mattresses. HELL NO - if anyone is getting treated like second class citizens it will be our own children. I am not paying my children anything. It stands to reason to keep the hired help happy. And, they are. They went out hanging in the mall- they are 19 years old, they should experience that.
I am sure that when we get up in the morning that Fifi and Lasmi are sleeping on the floor and the kids will be in these nice, cushy beds. Talk about roles. Zoe and Caden are the bosses.
What is kind of refreshing is that one of the teachers, Ruth, was teaching on that tall ship from Nova Scotia that sank off the coast of Brazil, last year. She keeps many things in perspective when situations arise. Because she was sitting in a life raft for many hours bailing away, she keeps you grounded about what you need to take with you. All of her stuff is at the bottom of the Atlantic. I guess you learn what is important- lesson 1: don't keep cash in a sock drawer.
What is cute is that we brought the nannies with us. They have never stayed in a hotel before. They were scared and excited about the day. I think they are worried about their jobs- so they should, they are nervous for the children- good, but they get to watch TV- hurray.
I will be interested to their sleeping arrangements. They already tried to have me remove the mattresses so they could sleep on the "mattress under the bed". They were going to sleep on the box spring and give the kids the mattresses. HELL NO - if anyone is getting treated like second class citizens it will be our own children. I am not paying my children anything. It stands to reason to keep the hired help happy. And, they are. They went out hanging in the mall- they are 19 years old, they should experience that.
I am sure that when we get up in the morning that Fifi and Lasmi are sleeping on the floor and the kids will be in these nice, cushy beds. Talk about roles. Zoe and Caden are the bosses.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
A new controversy
So.....the newest news on campus is that yesterday, in a dengue fever invoked haze, I was made aware that someone was passing out pamphlets to the students' drivers about the school land deal not going through. Of course, parents should pull their kids out of NJIS and not support the school because it was closing.
To tell you the background of the story:
Last year, around this time, the 20 year lease of the school was up for renewal. The school ownership (based in Shanghai) inquired about purchasing the land. There was, of course, debate over things like zoning, purchase price, etc. (kind of like St. Albert...rich bastards). The school was in threat of the land deal not getting finalized and all of the teachers were granted permission to leave and fine new contracts. The land deal, apparently, went through in February and March but all of the staff had signed off on new schools. Hence, the whole staff this year is brand new.
Then, yesterday, a land developer called Summarecon put up a sign out front of the school claiming that the land deal was not finished, blah, blah, blah. They even hired security to guard the signs. We can't take them down, but they cannot approach cars.
I guess both sides' lawyers got into a room to hash out details and in standard Indonesian tradition they joke, laugh, insult each other, talk business for two minutes, glare menacingly, joke some more, repeat. It takes then two hours to discuss 30 minutes of business. Lawyers, can't trust 'em anywhere (and don't point fingers, he's a Judge, now).
Anyway, we are assured nothing will happen. Although, we are often assured our photocopiers will work and that doesn't happen. Apparently, tactics such as these are commonly used here to speed up payments, increase legal fees, etc. The realtors stand to lose about $4 million each so I doubt they will let that happen. Plus, the schools original owner is married to a billionaire coal tycoon from China and I doubt he will let her pet project go (by the way, you should check out the half-million dollar ring on her finger). So, we will play it by ear. I am sure this is making National headlines in Canada and you are all sitting with baited breath waiting to hear the outcome.
At any rate, Marni, the kids and little Shamus the Leprechaun (calling him otherwise is a misgnomer) are doing fine.
To tell you the background of the story:
Last year, around this time, the 20 year lease of the school was up for renewal. The school ownership (based in Shanghai) inquired about purchasing the land. There was, of course, debate over things like zoning, purchase price, etc. (kind of like St. Albert...rich bastards). The school was in threat of the land deal not getting finalized and all of the teachers were granted permission to leave and fine new contracts. The land deal, apparently, went through in February and March but all of the staff had signed off on new schools. Hence, the whole staff this year is brand new.
Then, yesterday, a land developer called Summarecon put up a sign out front of the school claiming that the land deal was not finished, blah, blah, blah. They even hired security to guard the signs. We can't take them down, but they cannot approach cars.
I guess both sides' lawyers got into a room to hash out details and in standard Indonesian tradition they joke, laugh, insult each other, talk business for two minutes, glare menacingly, joke some more, repeat. It takes then two hours to discuss 30 minutes of business. Lawyers, can't trust 'em anywhere (and don't point fingers, he's a Judge, now).
Anyway, we are assured nothing will happen. Although, we are often assured our photocopiers will work and that doesn't happen. Apparently, tactics such as these are commonly used here to speed up payments, increase legal fees, etc. The realtors stand to lose about $4 million each so I doubt they will let that happen. Plus, the schools original owner is married to a billionaire coal tycoon from China and I doubt he will let her pet project go (by the way, you should check out the half-million dollar ring on her finger). So, we will play it by ear. I am sure this is making National headlines in Canada and you are all sitting with baited breath waiting to hear the outcome.
At any rate, Marni, the kids and little Shamus the Leprechaun (calling him otherwise is a misgnomer) are doing fine.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Golfing
The actual title of this blog should be "Men are pigs", however, we already know that. But, women get to be pigs on the golf course, too.
I found a group of people in Jakarta who call themselves "TeeSet". Each weekend for the last 27 years they pick a local course and about 15-20 of them go golfing. They seem like a good group of guys (and ladies). There are some from Cape Breton, Vancouver and everywhere else.
So, the golf. We played a course called Sentul Highland which is built in the hills South of Jakarta. There is a volcano as a backdrop and rice paddies scattered around and within the course. What did I learn? Well, they measure in metres and not yards. You can't take a divot because the ground is too soft from all the rain. The locals sit along the sides of the fairways to spot you balls, if you shank a ball in the bush some kid brings it out to you. You tip him about 20 cents and all is good. But, the caddies tell you where aim your putt instead of where it will break to. I kept telling my Caddy (Lina #5) "kanaan" for right, she kept saying "No, Boss, kiri". We were saying the same thing, just in a different order.
That brings me to the caddies. Basically, when you arrive at the course you are assigned a caddy. They bring you clubs to the driving range, put them on the cart and as the game goes on, they figure out how far you can hit with each club. However, I was giving up a stroke a whole because Lina was bringing out the wrong club and I didn't have the heart to send her back to the cart. They carry little bags filled with grass seed and pick up your divots for you.
Their job is also to make you feel like Tiger Woods. "Oh meester, you so strong. You hit that ball so faa." " Oh, Boss, you break tee, you so musclely."
But, after the game, they have shower facilities for you. And you can get a full body massage- with "servicing" for around $20. I am not sure about the total cost of the 'servicing' as I didn't inquire. Plus, I don't think the caddy is in charge of that.
All of this for the same price as Sandpiper in St. Albert. Oh, and the ladies get male caddies that do the same. I am unsure what the 'service' is though. Oh, and the girl with me in the picture kept looking at me and rubbing the side of her face. No, it isn't an Indonesian mating ritual, they don't get laugh lines around their eyes and she was commenting on mine. Apparently, they are fascinating.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Funny stuff we get to see.
Now that walking around here is getting to feel normal we are starting to notice a lot if interesting little tidbits. I will start carrying a camera everywhere because some of this stuff is just too funny to describe accurately.
Ecstasy fish balls- Walking through the Wal-Mart equivalent called the CarreFour I noticed little 'candies'. They were white with little faces on them. There were others shapes like stars, moons and various types of balls. I then noticed that they were made of fish. Truthfully, you don't want to know the parts of the fish. I will make sure I get some and tell you what they are like. No Xmas turkey- might as well have Xmas fish balls.
Looking for a little something for Caden to play with there was a great 'literal' translation for a child's toy. In bold letters, this toy announced that it provided "Infinite Pleasure!!". I looked around to see if I was in the right store. Marni assured me it was false advertising.
I apologize to any Muslims that may be reading this but your bathroom rituals are entirely too complex. I wont go into details but you might as well crap with a fire hose beside you. But, now I have seen it all. In a mall bathroom, beside the urinals there were hand sanitizers. Not too odd, except that the 'lotion' was not intended for your hands. Really, how dirty does it get down there? ......but, when in Rome......
Ecstasy fish balls- Walking through the Wal-Mart equivalent called the CarreFour I noticed little 'candies'. They were white with little faces on them. There were others shapes like stars, moons and various types of balls. I then noticed that they were made of fish. Truthfully, you don't want to know the parts of the fish. I will make sure I get some and tell you what they are like. No Xmas turkey- might as well have Xmas fish balls.
Looking for a little something for Caden to play with there was a great 'literal' translation for a child's toy. In bold letters, this toy announced that it provided "Infinite Pleasure!!". I looked around to see if I was in the right store. Marni assured me it was false advertising.
I apologize to any Muslims that may be reading this but your bathroom rituals are entirely too complex. I wont go into details but you might as well crap with a fire hose beside you. But, now I have seen it all. In a mall bathroom, beside the urinals there were hand sanitizers. Not too odd, except that the 'lotion' was not intended for your hands. Really, how dirty does it get down there? ......but, when in Rome......
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Aunt Rhoda's Gnome
My mom has this little gnome that belonged to Aunt Rhoda from Winnipeg. Rhoda used to say that it moved around the house. She would put it somewhere, then later, it was in a different play in the cupboard or shelf.
Mom doesn't know this, yet- but before I left I stole her little Irish friend. I figured if the little guy did actually move around the house the least I could do is show him around here, a bit.
Here he is on the first leg of his journey in Hong Kong's airport.
Here, nestled in the bosom of some traditional dancers. Trust me, though- they were not THAT traditional. I don't think they normally dance with a ghetto blaster.
This is the little guy enjoying his time on the beach of Palau Putri. He was a little skiddish of the live, wild Komodos lurking around the island. No lie, they were everywhere.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Old town
Here are a bunch of pictures from the 'Old Town'. I tried to take a bunch of pictures of the people and surroundings. I won't add any captions but you can get the idea.
The house across the street.
Ihave written many times about how they build stuff around here. I have also mentioned about how someone is getting a house built across from us. I figured I would post a few pictures of the work that has been done. Nothing has been happening, lately. We think it is because of the holiday.
They were placed in out of order and I am not going to straighten them out. So I will just give you the order.
The top right hand pic was taken on August 1, followed by the bottom one on the 18th of Aug. The middle row, right hand was a couple of days before the middle row LH- you can see the walls up in the back. The top LH picture was taken last week. They have beams up and well as places for doors.
They are using tufa (I think). It is very light, can cut with a hand saw, but gets harder when exposed to air. Many of the Chateau in France are made of the same stone.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Happiness and Sadness
Today is the first day of Indul Fitri. It is, basically, Muslim Xmas. So, we get ourselves 5 days off. Yay us! A well needed break after about two weeks of hardcore teaching. Okay, so it hasn't been too bad but the computers were down which caused me some discomfort. It could have been some bad chicken, too.
Marni, the kids, and I are heading to Putri island. It is one of the thousand islands (and home of the salad dressing, too) just north of Java (where we are). Hopefully, Caden can see a shark. The island has glass bottom boats, an aquarium and snorkeling. Unfortunately, we are learning that traveling is not as cheap as we were lead to believe. In fact, nothing is as cheap as we were lead to believe, except food and service type costs (massages, cabs, nannies).
A bus ticket may cost you $15 return from another city, but the buses may not run on any sort of schedule. Plus, the machet (traffic) is so bad it could take you days to get somewhere. Obviously, machet is the root of 'machete' which is what you want to kill everybody with when you are caught in it.
Anyway, we looked into getting a hotel in the city just to get away from the school. However, over the Indul Fitri weekend all the places are packed. But, you would think that they are filled with tourists. Oh, no- they are filled with locals.
During Indul fitri, like Xmas, it is important to go home and celebrate with family. That said, all the nannies, maids, drivers, etc. are gone. So, all the local rich people are moving into the hotels because they truly have no idea how to take care of themselves. They would have no clean clothes, food or people to drive them around. One of my students send his driver to McDonalds because he didn't have any breakfast. The cooks went home and no one made him food. I am sure food exists in his house but nobody has any idea what to do with it. Sadly, a whole new form of helplessness.
My solution would be to hire half Muslims and half Christians. That way, all your bases would be covered.
Marni, the kids, and I are heading to Putri island. It is one of the thousand islands (and home of the salad dressing, too) just north of Java (where we are). Hopefully, Caden can see a shark. The island has glass bottom boats, an aquarium and snorkeling. Unfortunately, we are learning that traveling is not as cheap as we were lead to believe. In fact, nothing is as cheap as we were lead to believe, except food and service type costs (massages, cabs, nannies).
A bus ticket may cost you $15 return from another city, but the buses may not run on any sort of schedule. Plus, the machet (traffic) is so bad it could take you days to get somewhere. Obviously, machet is the root of 'machete' which is what you want to kill everybody with when you are caught in it.
Anyway, we looked into getting a hotel in the city just to get away from the school. However, over the Indul Fitri weekend all the places are packed. But, you would think that they are filled with tourists. Oh, no- they are filled with locals.
During Indul fitri, like Xmas, it is important to go home and celebrate with family. That said, all the nannies, maids, drivers, etc. are gone. So, all the local rich people are moving into the hotels because they truly have no idea how to take care of themselves. They would have no clean clothes, food or people to drive them around. One of my students send his driver to McDonalds because he didn't have any breakfast. The cooks went home and no one made him food. I am sure food exists in his house but nobody has any idea what to do with it. Sadly, a whole new form of helplessness.
My solution would be to hire half Muslims and half Christians. That way, all your bases would be covered.
Monday, September 6, 2010
God and other stuff
We went for a walk on Sunday to see what was in our neighbourhood and we found some very interesting things. Not far from here is a huge Christian church. Marni, being the good Catholic peered inside and came back and mentioned "It is more of a show then church.". After checking out some posters, the minister is your 'Billy Graham' type of guy. There was a lot of whiz-bang and he was building his ministry here in Jakarta. Being in a very Chinese area, there is a lot of them that are flocking to Christianity. With the church came a college, private school and a Cathedral being built an one large complex. Very impressive. But, according to the pictures on the glass, if you don't listen they kill you.
We continued on our walk and found, what seemed to be a public garden. Very beautiful. Tucked in behind the garden was an open air market. Lots of fruits and veggies out for display. They also come with a healthy portion of flies. Being privy to the 'chicken jump' on the farm, nothing surprised or phased me.
Just a couple of funny ideas- here are a few things you can learn in Jakarta.There is always room for Christianity and Media technology.
Another thing; what does this say about the people showing up when it's closed? They didn't know what the sign said when they sat down.....sure.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Used clothes
Marni, the kids and I were walking in an area called the "Old Town" last weekend. It has a bunch of the Dutch colonial buildings and reminds you of a small European town. Kind of interesting. But, even more interesting is that it is close to the wharf and shipyards.
Having never really wondered where things like waterproof bags and tarps come from I was floored to see people-on the street, sewing these huge rolls and lengths of tarps. I guess someone has to do it. There were people sewing what looked to be, sails. There were ropes that were as thick as my legs. It was very interesting.
Even more interesting is that we saw a kid wearing a t-shirt with the Alberta 75 logo. That was the logo that was used when Alberta turned 75.....in 1980. I wondered where this kid would get a 30 year old t-shirt from Alberta. Then it dawned on me, what happens to all those old clothes that we donate to the Salvation army? I am sure that the stuff they don't sell gets donated somewhere else. I guess it has to go somewhere. I am sure there is someone wearing an old Lanny McDonald flames jersey around here, too.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Gong Show
So, rat number two is resting comfortably in the neighbours garbage. I was merciless on the vile vermin. But, he was quite cute. Brown and fuzzy with an interesting little face. The blood leaking from his ears made him less cute, though. He is still vermin.
So, a few more things to complain about so you know what life is like in the land of 'almost right'. Computers- even though they are made here, apparently don't want to work here. The wind blew out the internet the other day. Makes me wonder how Lethbridge has any at all? I was told that a computer would be hooked up to the library SMART board so I wouldn't have to use my laptop. Well, there is a computer- it is simply plugged into the outlet. Not actually to the SMART board. Nor, is there any software to run anything. But, there is a computer.
The computer is in my room is also hooked up to the wall. But, that is all. Now it is totally non-functional because when I plugged in my Van De Graaf generator for science class it started on fire and blew all the breakers! Lord knows where the breakers are.
Then, while burning up the generator, Caden was playing with some markers and was rubbing his face. Covered in black felt he looked like Charlie Chaplin (or Hitler). No big deal, except that we can clean him up because there is very little water pressure since Friday. No hot water at all. It took the neighbour 45 min to fill her tub for a bath.
Marni's classroom air conditioner is on the fritz, again. Students come from her classroom looking as if they just ran a marathon in her english class. Between classes she runs to the next room to cool off. Having taught in a broom closet in PK I am not too sympathetic. Although, it did have a functional computer and some electricity.
On the bright side, Marni and I did some karaoke on Saturday. Sadly, growing up with Vic and Kathleen has subjected her to look in the music library for Kris Kristofferson and "The Pony Man". Good luck, there. I however, know every ABBA song ever written. Thanks Dad!
But, there were $7 jugs of beer. Great deal seems how a bottle of wine was $35.
This is just a little whine for you.
So, a few more things to complain about so you know what life is like in the land of 'almost right'. Computers- even though they are made here, apparently don't want to work here. The wind blew out the internet the other day. Makes me wonder how Lethbridge has any at all? I was told that a computer would be hooked up to the library SMART board so I wouldn't have to use my laptop. Well, there is a computer- it is simply plugged into the outlet. Not actually to the SMART board. Nor, is there any software to run anything. But, there is a computer.
The computer is in my room is also hooked up to the wall. But, that is all. Now it is totally non-functional because when I plugged in my Van De Graaf generator for science class it started on fire and blew all the breakers! Lord knows where the breakers are.
Then, while burning up the generator, Caden was playing with some markers and was rubbing his face. Covered in black felt he looked like Charlie Chaplin (or Hitler). No big deal, except that we can clean him up because there is very little water pressure since Friday. No hot water at all. It took the neighbour 45 min to fill her tub for a bath.
Marni's classroom air conditioner is on the fritz, again. Students come from her classroom looking as if they just ran a marathon in her english class. Between classes she runs to the next room to cool off. Having taught in a broom closet in PK I am not too sympathetic. Although, it did have a functional computer and some electricity.
On the bright side, Marni and I did some karaoke on Saturday. Sadly, growing up with Vic and Kathleen has subjected her to look in the music library for Kris Kristofferson and "The Pony Man". Good luck, there. I however, know every ABBA song ever written. Thanks Dad!
But, there were $7 jugs of beer. Great deal seems how a bottle of wine was $35.
This is just a little whine for you.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Some things are really ticking me off!
I know I am in a tropical country but do you think the rats could stay away? We have very little furniture, people keeping the house clean and we live on the second story. Why was he here? The thing that bugs me more is when you tell people there was a rat in the house their first question is "How big?". Does it really matter? There is vermin in the apartment! To top it off, not only did I hit a rat with my putter (which, by the way, was my best swing in ages) but I stomped on two roaches. Oh, no- not the roaches you hippies are thinking of, but actual juicy, size of the palm of your hand kind.
Then, down the way Caden was able to see a grasshopper that, no kidding, must have been four inches long. Why the hell are people living in this place?
Line-ups are also tough to navigate. People here stand in line like they drive- just waiting to find any daylight to squeeze into. Being Canadian, I will be patient and allow others to go ahead. Where does that get me? In the back of the damn line, that's where! So, I have learned that if you cross your arms in front of you that means you are some pissed. Indonesians don't like anger and that one thing that shows your anger. Plus, if you walk away they are upset that they didn't make a sale.
"Jam karet"- Indonesian for rubber time. No, it's not what your girlfriends used to say to you when you were dating, it is how Indonesians do their daily tasks- whenever the hell they want! Time just bends and stretches like a rubber band. I don't think there is a word for priority. I am still waiting for a projector in my classroom that was supposed to be installed Thursday. I was told next week two weeks ago for school agendas and then our school IT person keeps telling me to email any problems you are having. Ironically, the damn internet is always down so emailing is somewhat difficult.
Oh, and did I mention there was a rat in the apartment?
Then, down the way Caden was able to see a grasshopper that, no kidding, must have been four inches long. Why the hell are people living in this place?
Line-ups are also tough to navigate. People here stand in line like they drive- just waiting to find any daylight to squeeze into. Being Canadian, I will be patient and allow others to go ahead. Where does that get me? In the back of the damn line, that's where! So, I have learned that if you cross your arms in front of you that means you are some pissed. Indonesians don't like anger and that one thing that shows your anger. Plus, if you walk away they are upset that they didn't make a sale.
"Jam karet"- Indonesian for rubber time. No, it's not what your girlfriends used to say to you when you were dating, it is how Indonesians do their daily tasks- whenever the hell they want! Time just bends and stretches like a rubber band. I don't think there is a word for priority. I am still waiting for a projector in my classroom that was supposed to be installed Thursday. I was told next week two weeks ago for school agendas and then our school IT person keeps telling me to email any problems you are having. Ironically, the damn internet is always down so emailing is somewhat difficult.
Oh, and did I mention there was a rat in the apartment?
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Things to do
due to the fact that it is hotter then blazes most days there are no green spaces around Jakarta. What people do is go to the malls. Enjoy your west Edmonton malls and Cross Iron Mills- you haven't seen anything. We are talking 5 story palaces. According to one article I read there are about 130 large malls in Jakarta. Some are filled with crappy knock-offs, others are high end Louis Vitton, Cartier, etc.
Marni went to one place downtown with the kids to one place that has a 'Mini Jakarta' where kids can become whatever they want for the day. They have little fires to put out, buildings to construct and vehicles to drive. The kids had to sit through a safety video to get 'drivers licenses'. Ironic that you can bribe the DMV here to get one anyway. I have a student whose parents will bribe them to get the son driving a year earlier.
Interesting, though, how the roles are already established. Caden was not allowed into the nursery. That was for girls, only. They were able to make their own ice-cream and pizza for lunch. Caden got pissed about having to make his own food. The nannies have been spoiling him.
On another note, Marni and I went for a dinner on the weekend to a fantastic Italian restaurant in South Jakarta. The meal was great, but even better was the fact that we could ask for a bottle of the "Featured wine" and would they leave the cork in. We were excited to be able to purchase some wine that we could bring home.
We asked the waiter why wine is so expensive but not beer. One, they don't want to piss off the Chinese (where their beer comes from). Second, they can make beer here, but not wine. I am not sure if it is a climate thing or a space thing, or maybe a Muslim thing. But, they tax the hell out of wine. In some cases, a bottle that MIGHT cost us $15-20 at home would be triple that or more.
And, don't think that you could bring us some as they will search your luggage and confiscate the bottles. But, I am sure a $5 'pay your ticket on the spot' (i.e. bribe) would get you covered.
I know you thinking "Poor Marni and Cam, they have no wine! How will they deal with their students?". We have a teacher here whose husband works for the British embassy. I guess Diplomatic Immunity has its perks. Not only could you get away with murder- you can also get wine brought in from Australia for your friends.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Fat kids= prosperity
Well, apparently things in the west are catching on. Marni and I have noticed a lot of chunky Asian kids while here. What is happening is that if you are wealthy you have enough money to feed your kids and make them fat. What a great idea!!
We have seen and heard a few odd things that don't happen too often in the west. The nannies here will almost force feed a child. If the parents have food, it must be eaten. And, to keep kids satisfied they will continue to give children a bottle with formula. In fact, tonight at dinner, we saw what must have been a six to eight year old drinking from a baby bottle. She was pretty rollie-polly, too. But, Asians think that everything to do with America is good. That includes McDonalds cheeseburgers.
We have seen and heard a few odd things that don't happen too often in the west. The nannies here will almost force feed a child. If the parents have food, it must be eaten. And, to keep kids satisfied they will continue to give children a bottle with formula. In fact, tonight at dinner, we saw what must have been a six to eight year old drinking from a baby bottle. She was pretty rollie-polly, too. But, Asians think that everything to do with America is good. That includes McDonalds cheeseburgers.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
First day of school
With Bees working until all hours of the night on the national holiday, we finally opened. Y'know what- kids are the same here, too. They complain about cell phones or that the internet is too slow. Or that the desks are too small or lunch is too expensive.
Our classes are small. Many students enrolled in other international schools when the thought that ours was closing last year. I think my smallest class is 7 students and my 9/10 class is 19 kids. Not too bad for Marni and I.
Zoe is, of course, the tallest kid in her class. I think she is one of two white kids. There is a boy from Russia in grade 9. Whenever they have school photos they put the white kids in the from to make it look more international.
Zoe was a little lost and timid around all the other kids. Many of them know each other and although they were speaking english to her, I think she thought it was Mandarin.
To top it all off, Zoe left her bedroom window open and was eaten by mosquitoes. She looks like she has chicken pox. Her face and arms are covered in bites. Here, the mosquitoes are small but nasty. They are also everywhere- inside and out. There has been some heavy rains lately which has not helped, either.
Caden will go to his first day of preschool tomorrow. He will enjoy the playground but hate the math lesson. I am pretty sure he will beat up another child.
Our classes are small. Many students enrolled in other international schools when the thought that ours was closing last year. I think my smallest class is 7 students and my 9/10 class is 19 kids. Not too bad for Marni and I.
Zoe is, of course, the tallest kid in her class. I think she is one of two white kids. There is a boy from Russia in grade 9. Whenever they have school photos they put the white kids in the from to make it look more international.
Zoe was a little lost and timid around all the other kids. Many of them know each other and although they were speaking english to her, I think she thought it was Mandarin.
To top it all off, Zoe left her bedroom window open and was eaten by mosquitoes. She looks like she has chicken pox. Her face and arms are covered in bites. Here, the mosquitoes are small but nasty. They are also everywhere- inside and out. There has been some heavy rains lately which has not helped, either.
Caden will go to his first day of preschool tomorrow. He will enjoy the playground but hate the math lesson. I am pretty sure he will beat up another child.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Safari Pics
Everyone has been asking about pictures so here are some from the Safari that is about 1 hour outside of Jakarta. Finally, a little advantage to being white. For 10 000Rp (about $1) your kids can ride anything. Plus, being ignorant Bule gila's (crazy white's) we got to spent about 20 minutes feeding and petting dolphins for $5. The kids got to pose with Orangutans and I almost say a guy get his arm ripped off by a baby lion.
As you go up the hill to the park there are people (typically, sad faced homeless children) selling carrots and bananas to feed to the animals.
Realize too that I am morally opposed to all of these poses with the animals but couldn't help myself.
Friday, August 13, 2010
For teachers
Many of you teachers have come into schools a few days early to set up your classroom. Well, here, we have people that take care of that for you. If we just write on the wall the colour that we want the 'bees' will come in an do it for you. In fact, they get downright angry if you do it yourself.
I helped Marni move a desk and our aid, Redy (his joke is "I am Redy!"), gave us shit.
But, don't think it is all fun and games. One thing about Indonesian culture is that if you don't tell them to do something, or ask the right questions, jobs won't get done. I asked some Bees to give my room a cleaning. They used one rag- for everything. Never rinsed it. And, I had to leave every drawer and cupboard open or else it would not get done. There is no assuming in Indonesia. But, like a wise women said to be one "A clean classroom means your a good teacher." That one is for Simon. Come to think of it, that lady cleaned my whole room with one rag, too. Oh, Richard!
And....back home you don't have to clean up rat shit.
The whole "Not asking the right questions" thing came to a head yesterday while they were installing SMART boards. Apparently, we could have had 6 fully loaded SMARTboards, projectors and speakers for about $18000 through a company in Texas. After negotiating with a local company, we successfully purchased $18000 worth of equipment for exactly $18000. That said, we have some great SMARTboards with no projectors. Apparently, they were not part of negotiations.
Somebody, somewhere had asked if the model of SMARTboard we were ordering were adequate for our school. The answer was, of course, "Yes". But, that would be like asking if you could row a boat to England. You could, but there are better options. Somebody here was not made clear the other options. You never have to worry about being upsold here in Indonesia. They will just rip you off with the stuff you want.
I helped Marni move a desk and our aid, Redy (his joke is "I am Redy!"), gave us shit.
But, don't think it is all fun and games. One thing about Indonesian culture is that if you don't tell them to do something, or ask the right questions, jobs won't get done. I asked some Bees to give my room a cleaning. They used one rag- for everything. Never rinsed it. And, I had to leave every drawer and cupboard open or else it would not get done. There is no assuming in Indonesia. But, like a wise women said to be one "A clean classroom means your a good teacher." That one is for Simon. Come to think of it, that lady cleaned my whole room with one rag, too. Oh, Richard!
And....back home you don't have to clean up rat shit.
The whole "Not asking the right questions" thing came to a head yesterday while they were installing SMART boards. Apparently, we could have had 6 fully loaded SMARTboards, projectors and speakers for about $18000 through a company in Texas. After negotiating with a local company, we successfully purchased $18000 worth of equipment for exactly $18000. That said, we have some great SMARTboards with no projectors. Apparently, they were not part of negotiations.
Somebody, somewhere had asked if the model of SMARTboard we were ordering were adequate for our school. The answer was, of course, "Yes". But, that would be like asking if you could row a boat to England. You could, but there are better options. Somebody here was not made clear the other options. You never have to worry about being upsold here in Indonesia. They will just rip you off with the stuff you want.
Daily Life- Aug. 13, 2010
Across the street from the apartment there is a crew of guys building a house. I don't know how long they had been working on it before we arrived but judging by the speed they work it was about a month.
The only pieces of heavy equipment that I have seen them use has been an old school cement mixer. They did, however, use cement truck and a pumping truck to pour the second floor of the house. That was a sight to behold! Guys in bare feet, ankle deep in concrete as it is being dropped from the sky. They would also haul up small amount using a bucket and rope. Whatever excess they had was used to patch the road in front of the house. Marni and I are taking pictures to monitor the progress. I think the workers are getting a little pissy about that. But, I am tired about getting starred at in the mall. However, that has advantages when crossing the busy roads.
That leads me to street crossing. Firstly, lanes on Jakarta roadways are simply a suggestion. It makes sense- why have two lanes when four cars and three scooters will easily fit across. Signal lights are used hesitantly. Drivers would rather honk and wedge in. Frankly, I haven't seen as many accidents here as I have in St. Albert, though.
Oh, yah, crossing the street. Rules for pedestrians are "Look out!" Apparently, if you put your hand out, cars will stop. Allegedly, your hand provides you with some sort of force field that will save you. I have not tested the theory. Drivers will not stop for police wielding whistles, either. Having blond children will make drivers slow down enough to get across safely.
Yesterday was the start of Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month. People will get up around 4:00 am to eat then they will not eat until after sundown. Many though, just go back to bed because many of our "Bees" did not show up. Those that did were very tired and many of us found them sleeping in our rooms. The problem I had was that I had nowhere to sleep because all the good spots in my classroom had been taken.
We get to go out for dinner, tonight. The staff is heading somewhere downtown. It should take about 1.5 hours to get there. It would be like driving to Red Deer but covering the distance to Superstore.
The only pieces of heavy equipment that I have seen them use has been an old school cement mixer. They did, however, use cement truck and a pumping truck to pour the second floor of the house. That was a sight to behold! Guys in bare feet, ankle deep in concrete as it is being dropped from the sky. They would also haul up small amount using a bucket and rope. Whatever excess they had was used to patch the road in front of the house. Marni and I are taking pictures to monitor the progress. I think the workers are getting a little pissy about that. But, I am tired about getting starred at in the mall. However, that has advantages when crossing the busy roads.
That leads me to street crossing. Firstly, lanes on Jakarta roadways are simply a suggestion. It makes sense- why have two lanes when four cars and three scooters will easily fit across. Signal lights are used hesitantly. Drivers would rather honk and wedge in. Frankly, I haven't seen as many accidents here as I have in St. Albert, though.
Oh, yah, crossing the street. Rules for pedestrians are "Look out!" Apparently, if you put your hand out, cars will stop. Allegedly, your hand provides you with some sort of force field that will save you. I have not tested the theory. Drivers will not stop for police wielding whistles, either. Having blond children will make drivers slow down enough to get across safely.
Yesterday was the start of Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month. People will get up around 4:00 am to eat then they will not eat until after sundown. Many though, just go back to bed because many of our "Bees" did not show up. Those that did were very tired and many of us found them sleeping in our rooms. The problem I had was that I had nowhere to sleep because all the good spots in my classroom had been taken.
We get to go out for dinner, tonight. The staff is heading somewhere downtown. It should take about 1.5 hours to get there. It would be like driving to Red Deer but covering the distance to Superstore.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Aug. 10, 2010
Marni and I are quickly learning that we need to take our camera everywhere we go. Here are just a few things we would take pictures of:
1) An entire family wedged onto a scooter. Oldest child in front, dad driving, mom on the back and a baby squished in between mom and dad. But, to comply with the law, dad is wearing a helmet.
2) People doing everything by hand. Labour is cheap. These guys are thatching the roof of a hut here on campus.
3) The sun. So rarely seen that we may have to take a picture.
4) Street businesses- we have seen everything from noodle vendors, rice di
shes and the lot. But, the funniest have to be the spot on the street with an air compressor and some wrenches where you can do some quick fixes on your scooter. Marni saw a guy with a table welded to his motorbike where he attached a sewing machine for some "on the spot tailoring". And, they all come complete with a cat. We are not sure if they are the second course, though.
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