I know you must be checking daily to see if there is another fabulous, poignant entry into my blog. But, alas, life around here is simply normal. Normal?
If normal is seeing a family of five with only one set of teeth between them, then life is normal.
If normal is people trying to rip me off after I ask them any question, then life is normal. While Marni and I were in Lombok (the Island next to Bali which I would highly recommend) I was offered a taxi ride to the airport. When I asked the driver 'How much?', his answer was Rp 70 000. I told him it was only Rp 57 000 to get to the hotel from the airport. "Okay" he says, "I'll do it for that much." Turns out, it was actually only a Rp. 40 000 ride with the meter on. Bastards!!
However, it is nice becoming familiar with the local costs of things. When arriving in Jakarta I now know it is only a $12 cab ride from the airport to the school. The local cabbies will offer you a ride for $20.
It is amazing how protective of money you do get simply out of principle. I took an Ojek (scooter taxi) to the hospital. He charged me Rp 10 000 (about a buck). I tried to haggle him down to Rp 7000. What the hell am I thinking fighting over 30 cents? But is principle, dammit! I gave him the Rp 10 000 after he drove the wrong way down a one way road. I figured that was ballsy. Yes, Mom, I was wearing a helmet. I am sure I have lice, now.
If normal is teaching a class of three on a regular basis, then life is normal. We had to combine two grades together for gym class so the teacher could actually play a game of 4-on-4 basketball.
Anyway, I thought I would give you all a little sample of our life, here. People keep asking if I am getting homesick. The answer is no. I think I talk to many of you more then I did before. Of course, my daily dose of Kathleen keeps me going.
Love (or at least a strong like) to all.
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