So Mote It Be!

Of Death and Whatnot

2011-12-12T20:22:00.008+07:00

Today, my 4-year-old daughter asked me, “Suatu hari nanti Mami akan tua?” (Will you grow old one day?)

And I answered, simply, “Yes. “

She was not satisfied with just that, so she asked again, “Kalau gitu apa Mami suatu hari nanti akan meninggal?” (If that’s the case, will you die one day?)

I nodded.

She burst into tears. She couldn’t accept the fact that one day I would leave her. I thought of saying comforting words like, “I will live long enough for you” or “It’s in distant future” but I stopped myself. Who knows? I don’t want to give her false hopes. My partner and I always want to be as honest as possible to our kids.

Instead, I told her gently, "I hope when the time comes, you'll be strong enough to live without me. I will never truly leave your side. I will stay in your heart, as long as you remember me."

She sobbed and hugged me tight, still crying.

So, my lovely kids, if you read this one day, bear in mind that Mami and Papi love you very, very much. We will try our best to guide and comfort you while we're still around. And that, my darlings, is a promise.

Mami sayang Aa dan Adek.

PLAGIAT? TERINSPIRASI? BACA DAN BANDINGKAN SENDIRI

2011-12-07T19:31:00.016+07:00

Saya akan ulang lagi kronologisnya, seperti yang pernah saya bagi di Twitter. Tanggal 3 Desember, saya membaca twitter yang ditujukan kepada majalah GADIS, yang mempertanyakan kok rubrik Percikan di GADIS edisi 32 sama ceritanya dengan salah satu cerpen saya di Katakan Cinta dengan Warna (terbit Januari 2010, oleh Gramedia Pustaka Utama). Saya tanya informasi lebih detail lagi via twitter, hingga akhirnya saya putuskan mencari sendiri majalahnya karena tidak ada edisi online-nya.

Begitu membaca, saya kaget karena plot dari rubrik Percikan itu dengan cerpen Aku Benci Mama! Ada kalimat yang sama, plot sama persis, hanya nama dan detail diubah dan cerita diringkas. Saya sertakan rubrik yang dimaksud dan cerpen saya itu. Silakan dibaca dan dibandingkan.

Saya kirim email pada GADIS yang alhamdulillah menanggapi dengan baik, dan setelah berusaha mengontak penulis rubrik Percikan berjudul "Bunda Gaul" itu, penulis yang saya sebut saja bernama M itu menyatakan tidak pernah membaca karya saya itu, itu karya aslinya yang terinspirasi dari ibunya, dan pihak GADIS berkata mereka akan memuat surat dari saya yang menyatakan karya itu plagiat dan sanggahan dari M sebagai penulis “Bunda Gaul”.

Saya pikir kebetulan mungkin saja terjadi, plot yang mirip-mirip juga bisa saja muncul. Tapi dalam kasus ini saya pikir dua cerita ini terlalu serupa.

Saya kutip dua kalimat yang sungguh mirip. Di “Bunda Gaul”:

“Reina benci Bunda. Bukan, bukan benci yang seperti itu.”

Di “Aku Benci Mama” karya saya:

“Sebut saja aku anak durhaka, tapi aku memang benci pada ibuku. Bukan, bukan benci seperti itu.”

Plagiarisme adalah isu yang serius. Plagiarisme merugikan semua pihak. Dari sudut pandang saya, bisa saja pembaca lain mengira “Bunda Gaul” itu karya saya, dan meski saya menerbitkannya di penerbit GPU, saya seolah menggunakan nama pena agar karya itu bisa dimuat lagi di media massa. Dari sisi pihak yang menerbitkan, apabila terbukti plagiat, nama baik mereka bisa tercoreng. Dan tentu saja, dari sisi yang melakukan plagiat, mematikan kreativitasnya dan bisa saja membuatnya berpikir, ah tidak usah susah-susah memikirkan cerita autentik, toh kalau menjiplak masih bisa dimuat dan tidak ketahuan. Dan tentunya masih banyak kerugian lain, baik moril maupun materiil.

Saya paham bahwa dalam proses memperbaiki kualitas tulisan masing-masing, terkadang kita terinspirasi dan menyadur/meniru ide/gaya penulis lain. Dan itu sah-sah saja dilakukan, asalkan tidak diterbitkan ke media mana pun dan juga tidak diaku-aku sebagai karya pribadi.

Saya harap sebagai penulis dan pembaca kita semua saling waspada. Kalau ada karya yang diaku sebagai milik orang lain akan tetapi dirimu pernah membaca/ tahu itu karyamu atau orang yang sama sekali lain, harap diwartakan agar lebih banyak yang mengetahuinya. Semoga dengan demikian para plagiator akan jera.

Tetap berkreasi, dan banggalah dengan karyamu sendiri!

--Primadonna Angela--

Berikut saya sertakan link terkait plagiarisme:

http://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plagiarisme

http://media.kompasiana.com/new-media/2011/01/13/copas-terjemahan-plagiat-dan-copyright/

http://pusathki.uii.ac.id/konsultasi/konsultasi/pelanggaran-hak-cipta-atas-karya-tulis-ilmiah.html

https://www.facebook.com/notes/ambu-dian/copyright-dan-plagiat/10150503393781948

Mid-Autumn Festival

2011-09-12T18:36:00.002+07:00

No mooncake for us today. But gazing at the moon, holding hands with your loved ones, sighing over the sheer beauty, is enough.

Amber-orange, golden-lava-like. Huge.

Freckles of mysterious dots, amidst the indigo sky so dark it's almost black.

Happy mid-autumn festival!

Does Time Have Wings?

2011-08-31T01:25:00.003+07:00

Does time have wings?

I bet they do.

For I could have sworn one minute ago

you were this small

and now you're tall.

And gee, whoa, who would have thought that you are four?
That every passing minute I love you more?
Have no idea what fate has in store
All I know my prayers are with you forevermore.

Darling daughter, I pray that life will treat you kind
And that you'll be blessed with a strong, sharp mind.

愛してる... ちか!

Eid Mubarak!

2011-08-31T01:19:00.002+07:00

It's now Eid, once more. Dear Lord, I pray that I will be able to face more Ramadans in the future. I pray that contentment and happiness will be rewarded for those who seek for them, and that You will continue to shower us with your blessings and love.

Dear Lord, I hope that differences will cause us to be stronger and closer to each other, instead of drifting us apart. I pray that we will respect other beliefs and support harmony and peace whenever we can.

So mote it be. Amen.

A Message from Hogwarts?

2011-08-17T12:44:00.002+07:00

Yesterday this barn owl decided to stop by, and my kids were thrilled and ecstatic. We hope this owl will have a long, happy life. And we hope this owl will drop by quite often.

I've read in the net that this kind of owl does not hoot, even though my partner and I sometimes hear owls hooting somewhere around here. Maybe there is another owl nearby? Or perhaps it's someone else's pet?

I think more barn owls would be cool since they dine on rats and small lizards. I've found out that the cats nearby seem to have a truce on rats and mice. They often pass the road together and they don't even show animosity to one another. I feel it's... eerie somehow, not natural!

Long Live Indonesian Stand Up

2011-08-10T19:24:00.002+07:00

They performed in Bober Cafe last Sunday. Who are they? From teft to right, using their twitter IDs:

@regzindahood @asepsuaji @muhadkly @dwikaputra @radityadika @ferdiriva @mosidik @ismanhs @jonathanend @tomymalewa

The place was packed. Full house. More than full. The first Indonesian StandUp show in Bandung. And it was on time. How cool is that?

Cherry Chocolate Balls

2011-08-10T18:58:00.004+07:00

This nom delish is one of our favorite treats. And it's fairly easy to make. My kids and I enjoy making them. Of course, it takes longer time if you make them with kids... but hey, sometimes it's more rewarding.

No baking!

Make sure you put them in the fridge for at least an hour first before serving, for more nom nomness.

Cherry Chocolate Balls

Ingredients:

- 300 gram milk biscuits (we use the type called Marie biscuit)
- 200 ml chocolate condensed milk
- Chocolate rice
- Maraschino cherries (red), drained from the juice
- 1 teaspoon of rum (or rum essence)

Instructions:
- Mash biscuits until they reach sand-like quality.
- Add condensed milk and then rum, mix well.
- Roll the dough until it forms into a ball, flatten it and put one cherry inside. Cover the cherry with the dough then roll it into some chocolate rice (I chose multicolored ones).
- Put 'em in the fridge for a while, aye it's done!

How to Clean Your Silver Jewelry... The Simple Way!

2011-08-04T17:32:00.010+07:00

I love silver. The bright sheen, the white sparks... when they are untarnished, at least. Unfortunately silver is prone to oxidation and it's such a disheartening sight, seeing your silver jewelry, dull and covered with blackish substance. I used to resort to chemical substances that they sell at the jeweler's but they cost a fortune and it can be harmful to your skin.

Thankfully I found this simple method to clean your jewelry in a book written by Earl Proulx. His books suggest that we reuse whatever we have and use ingredients that most of us have in our homes to do many stuff. Cleaning. Cooking. Removing stains. I suggest that you do some googling and check out his books for more tips.

You can clean your silver using electrolytic method. Fairly simple. You will need: aluminium foil (I use aluminium cup), baking soda, boiling water, rags.

Put about 2 teaspoon or baking soda to the foil (you can add more if the rust is very noticeable). Add boiling water.

Put the silver jewelry that you wish to clean in the aluminium cup. Wait for a while, stir if necessary (I use a wooden stick).

Remove the jewelry when you think it's clean enough, and clean it thoroughly rags.

Aye, it's done! Works like magic!

Nya's Visit

2011-07-09T20:33:00.005+07:00

Thank you Nya and Non, for your visit. I will always treasure our friendship. Seeing you smile and seeing our kids play with each other are among the greatest gifts that you've ever given me. I hope we'll be able to meet again, SOON.

Aza and Chika are missing Sho and Ko already. Chika told me when she has learned to write, she will write a letter for Sho and Ko. Incredibly sweet!

My Best Friend and Yours Truly

2011-07-09T20:21:00.002+07:00

My best friend and I met in 2000. The first time we met, we already clicked and decided that we were best buds. We emailed to each other first, then began using the phone.

Nyachan or Nina was already married when we first exchanged emails (circa 1999 methink). I was still a university student. And look at us now. We both are mums of two children. Nyachan are blessed with Shochan and Kochan, while I have Aza and Chika.

Nina and her family graced us with a visit this July. One of the most unforgettable experiences for both of us: seeing our kids playing together. My kids can't speak Japanese and Sho & Ko certainly can't speak Indonesian. Yet they got along just fine. And I believe Chika had her first crush with one of Nyachan's sons. Awwww, it's so sweet.

Double Date in Disneyland

2011-07-09T19:57:00.006+07:00

Disneyland Tokyo is magical. It feels that way, to me. I was lucky enough to spend some hours day, one sunny, breezy day, with my partner, my best friend and her husband. You might think that I'm being silly when I said that I felt like a teenager, on a double date. It was exhilarating and fun.

My favorite ride is definitely Pirates of the Caribbean (we took it twice) and Pooh Honey Hunt! The one and only in the world. I could smell the honey around Pooh Honey Hunt. I cried a bit because it was a dream coming true. I first wanted to take this ride when I began writing Kintaholic. Circa 2006-2007. And four-five years later, it came true. Thank you Nyachan and Nonkun! 愛してる.

We went there using subway, and it was neat, once you know how the system works. If you know where you want to go, you can decide how much fare that you should pay by consulting the signboards above the machines. Buy the tickets in the machine, use it to enter the station (don't forget to take the ticket again, if you're not sure how, just take a look around and you'll know) and change trains when necessary. When you have arrived and put the ticket in a special machine, you don't need to take the ticket out again. Unless you buy special tickets that allow you to roam freely in Tokyo.

If you guys want to visit Disneyland in Japan, I advise you to spend at least two or three days to explore every niche. And I recommend Pirates of the Caribbean and Pooh Honey Hunt.

Second Round, a Cafe

2011-06-09T19:58:00.006+07:00

Still somewhere in Ginza. They serve teas in fancy cups and mag cakes. And oh, the cakes. My mouth is still watering thinking about it. I'll write about it more later.

It was a cozy spot. Apparently after lunch/dinner some Japanese love to have meet and greet in cafes. So they take the desserts here. The cafe doesn't sell any other food. Just some drinks (coffee, tea, perhaps soft drink) and cakes.

We had some fun and the conversation flowed freely. It's as if we've known each other for years. What an incredible feeling.

We had this awesome cake. The base is meringue, macaroon. Then heaps of cream and other stuff. Then decorated with chestnut paste, designed to look like spaghetti (in fact Isman and I first thought, who on earth put pasta on a cake? Ha ha!). I could almost feel the taste. It's addictive!

First Round, Chinese Restaurant

2011-06-09T19:44:00.003+07:00

I think it was in Ginza, but I am not so sure. Ibu Yumiko is an Indonesian translator (she is Japanese) and she is a friend of Nyachan. We exchanged some emails and I found her very polite, charming and nice. In a way I think Ibu Yumiko looks like an Indonesian (she's wearing green, by the way).

It was a nice dinner, and Ibu Yumiko brought along a friend. She doesn't really speak English or Indonesian and I can't speak Japanese, yet somehow we got along fine.

The food was tasty even though I was quite sad because I couldn't taste the huge gyoza (they contained traces of pork). I love the drink. Orange juice in a bottle, yeaah! I love it so much, I had two bottles. I wanted three actually but it was my brain thinking, my stomach couldn't hold some more. :D

When my partner and I said that we were so full, Ibu Yumiko said, "Oh, this is just first round." We thought she was kidding. But actually there was a round two! *gasp*

Mount Fuji!

2011-06-09T19:38:00.003+07:00

I guess the pictures speak for themselves. Yeah, we were very juiced up being there. And yeah, it was cold.

I'd love to visit Mount Fuji again, one day.

Atashi no Shin Yu, Aishiteru!

2011-06-09T19:28:00.002+07:00

I met Nyachan again (call her Nina please, Nyachan is a nickname for close friends ^_~) in Japan. She was waiting in the lobby of Shin Hankyu Hotel in Osaka. I am so touched because she deliberately went all the way to Osaka (her home is near Kobe) just to meet me, even though only for a couple of hours.

Nyachan asked me to make a dress here, so I had a tailor made it for her. We wore similar dresses then went out to have tea and cakes. People were staring at us (being Japanese, they were very discreet in doing so but we could tell, haha) but we didn't particularly care. We are entitled to have our own fun. :D

Ooh, I miss her already.

Japan in June, Sweet Memories Indeed

2011-06-09T19:06:00.004+07:00

My partner and I were fortunate enough to be able to go to Japan in June. Spring is still in the air. We got to do tons of stuff (am thinking of writing a book about it and perhaps self-publishing it) and I found Japan very sweet, incredibly romantic, and definitely exciting.

I was happy because we had the chance to stay in a ryokan--Japanese traditional lodging--if only for a night. This is me wearing a yukata, about to try the onsen. The onsen in Fuji Hotel, Isawa, has very clear water and no odor. Perfect!

I also tried pachinko (just for the heck of it), rode Shinkansen (Nozomi 232, the newest train they have) from Osaka to Tokyo, tried vending machines and of course the cute lil' machines that eject gashapon, rode subway like a regular Japanese, wore yukata and haori, went to Mount Fuji up to the 5th station (1 being the lowest, 10 the highest), tried onsen, ate sushi and shabu-shabu and yakiniku and paper nabe till I was so full that I thought I could burst, met my best friend, met Ibu Yumiko--Indonesian translator so her Indonesian is flawless, went to Disneyland and oh so many more.

I love you, Japan! I hope one day I can visit you again.

Where to Eat in Bali?

2011-04-10T18:45:00.003+07:00

Bali has tons of restaurants and cafes. From the ones littered near the beaches, small "warung" boasting whatever delicacies that they are serving, to haute cuisine.

Since I am Muslim, I have to be careful when eating in Bali. Some of the restaurants serve pork. In fact, one of Balinese specialty dishes is roasted pigs, skewered. They say it's succulent and tasty.

Appearances do matter. Affordable, cheap restaurants usually write their specialties on a banner/on their windows and some even put the prices there. Expensive ones are more elegant and located usually in busy areas, or places where many foreign tourists usually flock. If you're unsure, ask your guide/driver in Bali, they will be able to enlighten you since most drivers I met in Bali are well versed when it comes to choosing the best places to eat, according to your preference.

If you're Muslim, choose restaurants with the word "halal" in them. Otherwise you might have to ask the waiters or waitresses whether they are serving halal food or not. If you're unsure, just stick to vegetarian dishes.

Balinese dishes are generally spicy. If you're used to it, then feel free to sample whatever you fancy. Alternatively you can ask the waiters/waitresses if their chef could lessen the spiciness of their dishes. Never hesitate to ask!

My best friend and I chose a restaurant called Renon. It serves halal food and the price is affordable. They mainly serve Chinese food. I had fun looking at their wares. They're also selling cute saucers, mugs, bowls made of porcelain. If you happen to be there, try their specialty, Renon roasted chicken. They're yum yum!

Sakura, Blooming. Hope, Returning.

2011-04-10T13:37:00.003+07:00

These gorgeous pictures were taken by Yumiko-san. Yumiko-san is a friend of Nyachan. She is a teacher and also translator... from Indonesian to Japan. Her Indonesian is superb. She took these a few days ago in Tokyo.

Sakura is gorgeous, and I have a special fondness for sakura flowers because they eventually will turn into cherries! Yes, I love cherries very, very much. Even I chose "cinnamoncherry" as my twitter ID. Cinnamon Cherry is one of my favorite protagonists from my books.

I hope the situation in Japan will be better soon. And I pray that hope continues to linger and support the people, giving them strength and encouragement to move on.
I hope people can derive simple pleasures from watching sakura, blooming, while believing that in time, everything will be all right.

Where I Stayed in Bali

2011-04-10T11:52:00.003+07:00

I was lucky enough because I didn't have to worry about lodging during my last visit in Bali. Nyachan already booked a room here and I have to applaud her choice. She has been here before and she loved it. I love it, too.

The main attraction is of course, the pool. It's warm, especially in the morning and afternoon. I spent some time near the pool, writing on my journal. It's relaxing and surprisingly, fairly empty. I suppose the guests prefer to go to the beach or do some sightseeing.

Nyachan and I stayed at the second floor of a cottage. The view is spectacular and in the morning we can hear the sounds of the birds chirping and cicadas singing. The fragrant flowers and fresh scent are amazing. One day I'd love to stay in this hotel again.

For breakfast, the best choice would be nasi goreng. They also have mi goreng, chicken porridge, bread but Nyachan agrees with me that nasi goreng is the best.

It's only about five minutes away from Sanur beach. And there are lots of cafes, souvenir shops, convenience stores, small restaurants, nearby. You can also find internet cafes around the hotel. I ended up having my lunch at KFC next to the hotel though, what a shame, going all the way to Bali only to eat fried chicken, ha ha ha.

Sanur Beach... Bali

2011-04-09T20:35:00.004+07:00

While in Bali, I stayed in a hotel near Sanur beach (I'll write about the hotel later). So in the morn, I decided to walk there. It took roughly 5 minutes, and there I was, in Sanur beach.

Some Balinese I met told me that Sanur beach is kinda slow, meaning, not much is happening there. Unlike the busy and tourist-swarmed Kuta, for instance. I think I prefer it that way. During my short walk, I encountered some cafes, beauty saloons, hostels, convenience stores, souvenir shops, restaurants. And not to mentions lots of taxi drivers/cars to rent.

I saw lots of canang--some kind of offerings consisting of flowers and leaves. They're pretty and fragrant. They're for buto kalo (unsure about the spelling), beings with negative energies. Since they're blind, they need positive energies to "see". Human beings have positive energies. So let's say to protect themselves, humans should put some canang (with positive energies in them) and buto kalo will take the energy from canang instead.

My driver in Bali told me that the students are learning about canang and special flowers that can be used, the rituals, and such. A pity I didn't stay in Bali for long. I'd love to get my hands on the books concerning canang, rituals, flowers and buto kalo.

Back to Sanur... I arrived there at 8.30 GMT + 8 and it was scorching hot! I saw some foreign tourists sunbathing and I couldn't fathom how they could stand to lie down there, in bathing suits, soaking the rays of the sun. I gingerly felt the sand using my bare feet and ouch ouch ouch, I felt like I was being baked. I then chose to walk on the wet part of the sand instead.

Some portions of the beach are lined with rocks. The rocks are inhabited with crabs! Lots of them. Small ones, gray-blackish ones. I meant to sit on the rock while writing my journal or composing a poem but I feared the crabs might bite me!

So what should you do in Sanur? You can collect some shells if you want while walking around, sit near the crabs (he he), shop for some souvenirs (the shops were fairly empty when I was there, perhaps because it was still morning and March is not one of the busiest months there), enjoy some meals (sea food, mostly), take pictures (but of course), and I think you can also rent a boat to do some sightseeing.

Unfortunately there isn't any public transportation in Bali. To go to Sanur, you can walk (if you're nearby), rent a car, motorcycle, bicycle. There's a parking lot in front of the beach.

PS: It's better to visit Sanur before 9-10 AM. Or when sunset approaches. You might want to bring your own sunblock and mat if you plan to sit and relax on the sand. Alternatively you can also buy beach sarung in the souvenir shops. Bring your own mineral water too, walking around is bound to make you thirsty.

Nyachan & Yours Truly

2011-04-09T19:38:00.002+07:00

Atashi no shin yu (my best friend) is a Japanese. Her name is Nina but her family, close friends and yours truly call her Nyachan. Last month she went to Bali to have a short Indonesian course (yes, she can speak Bahasa Indonesia! I'm so proud of her!). You can say that in a whim, I went there to meet her. We had some fun and we went to Tanah Lot together.

I'll share my experiences in Bali in other posts. I didn't go to many places since I was only there for 2 nights and 3 days. I've visited some places of interest in Bali but it was eons ago, back when I was still a highschooler and university student.

I love Bali. It's a pity that the electricity isn't that stable and the island is still experiencing other problems. However if you go to the right place and at the right moment, you'll be able to sense the magic. And truly understand why they say Bali is the island of the gods.

My First Attempt in Making Mitarashi Dango

2011-04-09T19:32:00.004+07:00

I googled some recipes and made alterations when necessary. I use rice and glutinous rice flour. I need to work on the dango, not chewy enough. And as for the sauce, perhaps I should use less dashi and soy sauce. But all in all, I'm quite proud because it's my first try.

One of my targets this year is to try at least one recipe per month. I'm proud to say that so far I've tried more than four recipes. ^_^

Kecewa dengan Rumah Buku Bandung

2011-03-25T12:26:00.002+07:00

Saya adalah pelanggan setia Rumah Buku Bandung. Rumah Buku menawarkan diskon yang kompetitif dan memberikan layanan sampul gratis pada buku dengan harga berapa pun (kecuali yang diskon 30%). Singkat kata, setiap kali saya ke sana, saya biasanya pulang dengan hati gembira.

Namun hari ini saya pulang dengan perasaan kecewa.

Saat berbelanja, saya melihat ruangan yang berisi buku-buku dengan kover yang menggugah minat saya. Ruangan itu pintunya terbuka sehingga saya masuk dan asyik memilih-milih buku anak yang diterbitkan salah satu penerbit terkemuka di Indonesia. Harga miring dan judul-judul yang menarik membuat saya mengambil beberapa buku untuk anak-anak dan keponakan saya.

Begitu saya hendak membayar, setelah pihak kasir (perempuan) berbicara dengan rekan kerjanya (pria), dia memberitahu saya bahwa buku-buku yang saya pilih di ruangan khusus itu tidak untuk dijual.

Saya bertanya, apa alasannya.

Kasir (perempuan) berkata bahwa ada masalah administrasi.

Saya bertanya lagi, kalau tidak dijual, kenapa ruangan itu dibiarkan terbuka?

Kasir menjawab bahwa mungkin tadi ada yang lewat sana dan tidak ditutup.

Saya bertanya lagi, oke, terus bagaimana? Kira-kira kapan buku itu bisa dibeli?

Kasir meminta maaf dan berkata dia tidak tahu.

Saya mengutarakan kekecewaan saya dan saya berkata, lain kali kalau memang bukunya tidak dijual, bikin pengumuman/tulisan di dekatnya dong, agar pembaca lain tidak telanjur kesal seperti saya. Saya juga berkata bahwa saya akan menuliskan kekecewaan saya via internet agar konsumen lain lebih berhati-hati.

Kasir perempuan meminta maaf berkali-kali, tapi saya utarakan, saya sudah telanjur kecewa. Mau meminta maaf dan meski saya menerima permintaan maaf tersebut, perasaan kecewa saya tidak bisa dihilangkan begitu saja.

Kemudian rekan kerja prianya memproses belanjaan saya yang lain. Ketika saya hendak membayar, kasir perempuan berbicara pada rekan kerjanya yang lain (sepertinya bertanya mengenai siapa yang bertanggung jawab mengenai buku-buku di ruangan khusus itu, namun orang tersebut sedang salat Jumat). Kemudian kasir perempuan menanyakan nomor HP saya (mungkin untuk memberitahukan informasi mengenai buku-buku tadi?).

Saya yang masih kesal bertanya, buat apa minta nomor HP saya? Kenapa tidak dari awal? Setelah membayar, saya pergi cepat-cepat meninggalkan Rumah Buku dengan hati dongkol.

Sebagai salah satu konsumen saya mengimbau agar Rumah Buku memperbaiki kinerjanya:

1. Kalau memang ada buku-buku yang tidak/belum saatnya dijual, harap berikan informasi tersebut dalam bentuk lisan dan tulisan. Bisa ditempelkan di bagian/rak tertentu sehingga konsumen akan maklum.

2. Kalau memang ruangan khusus di Rumah Buku itu menyimpan buku-buku yang belum saatnya dijual, harap pintunya selalu ditutup dan kalau bisa dikunci.

3. Kalau ada kejadian seperti yang saya alami, akan lebih baik apabila:
- Kasir segera meminta maaf
- Kasir segera memberitahukan mengapa buku-buku tersebut tidak bisa/belum bisa dibeli tanpa perlu ditanya
- Menginformasikan kapan kira-kira konsumen bisa membeli buku-buku tersebut (bisa dengan menanyakan nomor / alamat yang bisa dihubungi) SEGERA setelah meminta maaf, sebelum konsumen benar-benar kecewa seperti yang saya alami.

Semoga tidak ada lagi konsumen di Rumah Buku yang mengalami kejadian tidak mengenakkan seperti saya.

---Primadonna Angela---

Happy 4th Birthday, Chika!

2011-02-24T14:38:00.002+07:00

Thank you for gracing our lives. Thanks for annoying us with your whining voices, unreasonable demands. Thanks also for your delightful laughter and sparkling eyes.

But most of all, thanks for letting us be your friend.

We love you, Chika.

--papi-mami-aza-

I Love Cooking!

2011-02-24T13:09:00.002+07:00

Just for the fun of it. I don't want to cook professionally or spend some allotted hours everyday just to cook. I want to cook to show my love to my loved ones. I cook because I care, because I want to spend some of my time bringing joy to people I love.

I wasn't always like this. I wasn't a natural. My mom tried to teach me but I was a late bloomer, I suppose. My mom used to tell me my specialty back then was sambal. It was the only thing that I could make right. Ha! And then I began baking cookies, brownies. Sauteing some stuff. My skills developed tremendously when I went to university because you can say that I lived on my own and my parents' house was kinda remote back then. What was the significance of this? Meaning I couldn't rely on takeaway food! LOL. IIRC only two or three restaurants provided delivery to my parents' place then.

I want my kids to grow up with the smell of homemade cooking. And I want them to be compelled to learn how to cook as well, it's a precious art and craft and I am quite sad not many are interested to cook any more these days.

3rd 2011 Food--Cola Chicken

2011-01-07T17:26:00.003+07:00

My brothers used to love cola chicken, but these days it's quite a rarity in Bandung (even though a friend told me you can still get one around here). I found an old recipe and decided to try it with some adjustments. Here's what I got.

Aza loves it. He told me it's sweet and tasty, and it's perfect to be eaten with slices of cucumber. And moreover it's very, very easy to make! I prefer to use cola this way, instead of drinking it!

I think I will be cooking this quite often from this moment on!

2nd Recipe that I Tried in 2011

2011-01-07T17:08:00.002+07:00

Mushroom risotto. Aza wasn't feeling well so he had to avoid "hard food". I made this chicken mushroom risotto with regular rice. It turned out porridge-like, which was perfect. Since I added some cheese, my kids love it. My kids are crazy about cheese.

One of My Favorite Memories

2011-01-03T20:20:00.002+07:00

When the kids were way smaller. I used to worry a lot, thinking that they needed lots of my time. True. But as they grew bigger, they needed more and more time. And care. Now I realize that you can't stop being a parent, even when they are grown up and have kids on their own.

I will always remember the way they laughed or tried to communicate when they were babies. The way they looked at me, full of trust and love.

I love the way they sighed in their sleep, automatically reached for me when they needed comfort. I love it when they played together in harmony. (These days they often yell and stuff!) But I'm sure, one day, I'll miss the time when they were kids! (They are now 6 and 3... Chika is almost 4.)

Potato Scones, 1st Recipe That I Tried in 2011

2011-01-03T20:05:00.002+07:00

Confession: I've never made scones before, nor eaten any. I've heard about it all the time. Movies. Conversation. And especially books. So I found this recipe in a book and decided to bake some scones, with some adjustments. Turned out quite well and I ate some with mango jam. But I personally think it's better as is.

My First Lunch in 2011

2011-01-03T19:51:00.002+07:00

Courtesy of my mom. She made ayam kodok, Indonesian for frog chicken. Actually it's stuffed chicken, with minced meat and others. Was too lazy to make the sauce (ha) so I sliced some, added couple of prawn nuggets and slices of half a tomato.

Nom nom, and thank you, Mom!

Targets for 2011

2010-12-31T12:20:00.002+07:00

I prefer the word target than resolution. Resolution sounds loftier and more pretentious to yours truly, and it's like seeing the full moon on a clear night. It's visible, probably you think it's reachable (to astronauts perhaps), however it can lull you into thinking, yeah, yeah, one day, someday.

I have simple targets. I set four, for 2011. In no particular order, they are:

1. Write at least one manuscript.
2. Translate at least one book.
3. Try out a new recipe at least once a month.
4. Bake some cookies and share them to my friends during Ramadan.

Happy new year, everyone! Have a better year!

PS: The picture is my spinach omelet, or eggah bi sabaneh.

View of My Night

2010-12-10T14:20:00.004+07:00

These are things that I often see at night. The sight of Max sleeping with my babes. There's something soothing watching your loved ones sleeping.

I occasionally check them just to be sure they're OK, when I have my breaks during writing/translating/editing. But I think I make up that excuse. Truthfully I just love gazing at them while saying, "Awww..."

Cast of My Favorite Show--Dexter

2010-12-10T14:09:00.002+07:00

I "cheated" again and chose this picture instead. This picture was taken by Sonja Flemming/Showtime, and I got this from here.

I love Dexter. It's season 5 now and many people I know enjoy this show as well. It's about a unique serial killer because he's a blood analyst working for the police in Miami. He has this kind of "code" instilled by his belated adopted father. He only kills people that he deems deserved to be killed--criminals who escape Scot free or the untouchables. In the mean time he is trying to live normally, with kids, a partner, a devoted sister (who's also a police officer, btw).

This shows portrays the contrasts superbly and the opening title is awesome.

With the Person I've Been Closest with the Longest

2010-12-08T13:15:00.002+07:00

Technically I'm cheating here. It should be a pic of me with my mom, but most of the pics of yours truly with my mom belong to a more distant past. It appears to me that we take more pictures of the kids these days! So here it is, left to right, Chika, yours truly, mom, and my younger brother.

Naturally I've been closest with my mom the most. She had this weird craving when I was in her womb. She got so hooked about Michaelangelo's life, reading The Agony and the Ecstasy. If I were a boy, she'd named me Michaelangelo. (Thank goodness that wasn't meant to be!)

10 Facts About Yours Truly

2010-12-08T12:55:00.002+07:00

In no particular order.

1. I absolutely adore green. I think it's a beautiful color, depicting nature and quite soothing, too. I've always loved this color since I was a toddler.

2. I love traditional clothes. OK, so I rarely wear them, but to me it's very comforting to know I have some sets of kebaya--Indonesian traditional clothes, yukata, cheong sam. I used to have a sari and aodai but that was in my carefree, younger, slimmer days. So they don't fit me anymore. Meh.

3. Similar to #2, I love traditional cloths. I am not the type who is willing to spend hundreds or even thousands of bucks for a piece of cloth, but I admire people who appreciate traditional batik people and weavers. My most precious cloths are the two batiks that my grandma painted herself many years ago. Too bad she didn't live that long to teach me that skill. :(

4. I hate smoke. I don't mind people smoking but they should look around first to make sure that they others don't mind. I especially despise people who smoke near their nonsmoking spouses and toddlers (sometimes even babies).

5. I dislike the taste of beer. To me it just feels repugnant. So if I almost never have any, it's because of the taste.

6. I enjoy writing. But please refrain from asking where I get my ideas. They're everywhere, you just have to tune to them and grab some when needed.

7. I wear my heart on my sleeves. I often cry or laugh in public, and feel no guilt or whatsoever afterward. And yes, you can say that in a way I'm quite emotional.

8. I prefer not to discuss whatever project I'm working on with others, unless it's my partner. I prefer to "keep" my babies close until it's time for them to see the world (meaning, being published).

9. I have this weakness for stickers. I sometimes buy and hoard them just because.

10. I am a hoarder. I hoard stuff so much that periodically my partner threatens to burn them till they're gone. :D

Wow, Where Have All the Time Gone?

2010-12-08T12:53:00.002+07:00

It's been a while since I last blogged. And a dear friend of mine from Facebook, Patti Bahen, sent me this "30 days" thing. You're supposed to share 30 pictures with fun facts concerning yours truly. Sounds like fun! I'll just post whenever I feel like it. :p

Since I'm mightily forgetful, I'm copying and pasting the instructions here...

Day 01 - A picture of yourself with 10 facts

Day02 - A picture of you and the person you have been closest with the longest

Day03 - A picture of the cast from your favorite show

Day 04 - A picture of your night

Day 05 - A picture of your favorite memory

Day 06 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day

Day 07 - A picture of your most treasured item

Day 08 - A picture that makes you laugh

Day 09 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most

Day 10 - A picture of the person you do the most messed up things with

Day 11 - A picture of something you hate

Day 12 - A picture of something you love

Day 13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist

Day 14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without

Day 15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die

Day 16 - A picture of someone who inspires you

Day 17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently

Day 18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity

Day 19 - A picture and a letter

Day 20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel

Day 21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget

Day 22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at

Day 23 - A picture of your favorite book

Day 24 - A picture of something you wish you could change

Day 25 - A picture of your day

Day 26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you

Day 27 - A picture of yourself and a family member

Day 28 - A picture of something you're afraid of

Day 29 - A picture that can always make you smile

Day 30 - A picture of someone you miss

And let the fun time begin!

See You in Pesta Blogger 2010!

2010-10-29T14:44:00.002+07:00

I'll bring some pins and handmade accessories to Pesta Blogger 2010 in Jakarta tomorrow. Hopefully I can exchange them with souvenirs from other bloggers. ^_^

Water

2010-10-15T13:21:00.002+07:00

Water
is an element
is something to be sought when you're dry and parched
is essential to life
thus, to love.

Water is like love
You take that for granted, sometimes
You think nothing of it unless when you're in deep need
You might end up conserving some
or waste it without a thought.

Yet when you lack it
You can only thing of nothing but it.

My 18th Book, Kotak Mimpi (Dream Box)

2010-10-06T00:29:00.002+07:00

"But what is love, and what is life, if you do not let yourself live?"

Meet Isabella Larissa, a young lady who has accumulated tons of dreams. Unloved by her family, dumped by her lover on her engagement day, she still strives to make her dreams come true. As a songwriter, she once confided to her producer/manager that she wanted to host a songwriting talent show in television, it's her biggest dream, ever.

Then opportunity knocks when she least expects it. Her ex and his current girlfriend ask her to compose some songs for them, in exchange of the show that she's wanted for ages. Isabel is reluctant to do so, seeing that Noreen, Patrick's lover, seems to have this huge crush on Arya, her manager. Perhaps too late, Isabel realizes that she has deep feelings for Arya.

Things turn from bad to worse when pictures of Isabel in uncompromising situation are posted on the net. Isabel has to review her own dreams--what does she really want? If the answer is Arya, is she willing to tarnish his reputation by dragging him into this scandalous mess?

COMING SOON!

For My Little Princess

2010-09-30T03:24:00.002+07:00

My girl loves pink. She is into this princessy, cutesy stuff. She's been pestering me to make her more accessories in pink. And let me emphasize on the word "more" since I've been creating tons of them especially for her.

So I made this hairpiece for her. It's not as intricate and delicate as I'd like, but I figured since it was for a toddler anyway, this one would do fine. The brooch is also for her and she said it was cute.

Afterward, she came to me, starry eyes, saying, "Mami, let's draw love together. I love Mami." (By "love", she means the shape of heart.)

Awww.

Concerning My NEWEST Book!

2010-09-22T17:34:00.003+07:00

Whoa! My editor emailed me saying that she has finished editing my newest manuscript. So I'll check the proof soon, and when the cover is done it's going to be printed right away.

It means my book and my partner's will be published (hopefully) in the same month, namely October.

A perfect birthday gift! YAY!

Pride & Joy

2010-09-20T04:42:00.002+07:00

I learn a lot from my kids. They taught me that love is essential, and it needs to be expressed and shared. A lot. They taught me that responsibility is not always without fun. They helped me understand what I really want and need. They make me smile, they make me laugh and then perhaps cry, in a matter of seconds.

I have always wanted to have children, and I used to think when I had them I'd be cherishing them daily, treating them as supreme blessings. I admit I am no saint, so there are times when we drive each other crazy. When we hurt, either by words or gestures. But I have realized how love embraces any misdeeds and understanding might appear when you least expect it.

I am in the process of understanding my babies, vice versa. I thank Thee, Lord, for sprouting love inside my family. I feel blessed because we can say, whatever happens, our love lingers on. And on.

So mote it be.

My Boy Toy

2010-09-20T04:38:00.002+07:00

He's my new boy toy. I know he is too young--he's still in senior high school, but isn't he adorable? Isn't he a darl? Just look at his sweet smile and beguiling eyes, beckoning you to look deep and fall hard.

LOL.

Actually he's my nephew and I can't believe how quickly time passes.

My Chocolate Pudding with Yum Rum Sauce

2010-09-20T04:32:00.002+07:00

Made this a few hours ago. Only two portions left because my partner and my kids love it so much. I haven't made pudding for a long time, but I think I'll make some once a week, at least.

Been hankering to try baking lemon meringue pie, my favorite. But it requires some time and I am not really in the mood for some complicated baking. Perhaps later, this weekend.

Have spent a totally lazy holiday, meaning, I didn't work. Starting next week, I have to translate and revise some manuscripts. Yay! I've been storing tons of tarik tea to fuel me to work!

Wow!

2010-08-18T03:13:00.003+07:00

I am so thrilled because I got selected as 500 finalists of a contest done by http://www.aci.detik.com and whoa, I have to go to Jakarta for the interview. I hope I'll be able to win this, and I make a promise here and now should I win this competition, I'll write a novel based on this experience. It will be fun, for sure!

Please pray for me, and wish me luck! Thanks bunches!

~~~

And since some people have been asking me about my progress in literary world... here goes.
- I'm currently writing a sequel from one of my books... no, can't give any details right now. It's one of my pet projects and I'd like to keep her for a while longer. :)
- I'm translating two books right now, both of fantasy genre, one from Eire and another from the States.
- I have to revise a TeenLit book (before it can be approved for publication) and the editor is holding my latest manuscript in MetroPop genre, so wish me luck!
- Aside from the sequel, I currently am writing a TeenLit--about a teen who's sick of everybody treating her like a child, another TeenLit--fantasy, about a family with ESPs, with lots of sparks and mayhem, a MetroPop--about a magical shop, and a short story collection. Whew!

Max & Arty

2010-08-12T00:53:00.002+07:00

My cats, caught in the act. Seriously, Max (the bigger one) wanted to sleep when Arty annoyed him. So Max decided to annoy Arty instead and I managed to get this moment, pure luck!

First Day of Ramadan

2010-08-11T02:06:00.002+07:00

I made yakitori and soup. Yakitori is fairly easy to make. Just skewer some diced chicken, paprika, onion. Marinade with soy sauce, mirin (if you like), salt, pepper, sugar. Roast them till done.

Ramadan is a holy month for us Muslims. We will fast from dawn to dusk and try to forgive each other while controlling our emotions and activities. Tons of blessings are available for grabs, if you conduct yourself wisely and favorably.

I hope this Ramadan will bring happiness and inner peace to us all.

We LOVE Taman Safari!

2010-08-10T19:45:00.003+07:00

When I was a kid, and Taman Safari Cisarua, Bogor, just opened to public, my parents took us (yours truly and my brothers) there. I still remember the thrill and fear in Astana Hantu (Ghost Mansion), the rush and glee of boom boom car, and most importantly the joy of baby zoo. I love cats, big and small, and being able to pet them up, close and personal made me extremely happy.

Since I had happy memories there, I want my kids to have lovely memories in Taman Safari as well. We brought Aza the first time to Taman Safari (or Safari Park) when he was two. I was pregnant with Chika, then. Aza loved the animals, especially feeding the elephants. Then last month, we all went to Taman Safari again, with my parents, oh like the good ol' days. We stayed at the lodge, it was sooo cold (and they have no air con!). The kids were really happy seeing the animals. And my partner and yours truly had our nostalgic moment, once again going to Astana Hantu.

My favorite--as usual, the baby zoo.

My kids asked us to go there again next year. We shall see!

Cooking is Fun

2010-08-10T14:24:00.004+07:00

I believe everyone should learn how to cook. Oh sure, you can say, tons of fast food restaurants are around, why not make use of them? TV dinners, catering, other people that you can rely on (haha)...

Cooking is fun. It's a bit like writing, actually. You first have this notion of what to make. Then you try to find a recipe, but you might end up using any ingredients that you might have instead of buying them from a nearby shop. Then you gather the ingredients, process them, voila. Perhaps you will try to taste the food and add other ingredients if need be. Or you might ask others to taste them first, in order to improve the flavor.

Why should one learn to cook? To me, being able to cook is a sign of independence. If you can bathe and do the things you do in the bathroom all by yourself, why not learn to cook? You can depend on yourself to survive--to eat, at least.

You can also show your love through cooking. Don't have a decent idea for your pal's birthday? Bake her a cake. Your friend is sick? Bring her some homemade soup. Your nephew, doing well at school? Give him a jar of cookies. No need to exhaust yourself finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones!

Words

2010-08-10T13:43:00.002+07:00

Words are powerful, be careful when using them. Even God uses words to make things happen.

Not many realize that words need to be spoken. Good intentions are widely accepted, yet not readily acknowledged. "I meant to buy you some flowers, Hon, but I forgot..." "I wanted to cook you dinner, sorry, I overslept..." The fact is, that person does not get any flowers. No dinner, either. Sure, acts sometimes speak louder than words. But IMO, actions, combined with words, have very, very powerful impacts.

Some people live their days, doing things this and that, yet they almost never TELL people about their thoughts. Declaration of love, for instance, might be viewed as a moment of weakness, as if sharing your emotions is to be frowned upon.

However, you need to be careful not to overdo things... empty words might sound nice, but if you say words that you don't mean, they might come back and haunt you later.

Brownies & the Babes

2010-06-01T13:37:00.002+07:00

Haven't baked brownies for... ages. IIRC this is the first time I do that after I got married. My partner doesn't really like brownies, anyway. Last week I had the urge so I did, and I was ecstatic to know I could still do that.

Aza and Chika asked me right away to take pictures. Of them, near the brownies, that is.

My New Calculator!

2010-06-01T13:26:00.002+07:00

Those who know me well can vouch on my lousy ability in Math. Esp. in computing things. I always have at least one calculator handy near the PC.

I found this last week in a store. This owl calculator is green and it's winking! I got one and put in in my bag right away.

Apple Mint Jelly

2010-05-24T02:01:00.002+07:00

Been baking a lot (to my standard, that is) and I'd like to share some recipes. I love apples, and this jelly is a personal favorite of mine. (Source of the recipe: Periplus Mini Cookbooks, and the original name is Rich Mint Jelly. I think apple mint jelly is more appropriate)

Ingredients:
(first phase)
1 kg Granny Smith apples
1 liter water
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 1/2 cups mint leaves

(second phase)
Sugar
2-3 drips green food coloring (I used 3, but I think 2 would be better)
1/2 cup finely copped mint leaves

Instructions:
- Wash and dry thoroughly, cut apples to thick slices. Do not peel or core.
- Combine apple, water, lemon juice, mint leaves in a pan, bring to boil. Reduce heat slightly. Cook, uncovered, approx. 10-15 minutes or till apple forms a soft pulp. Break large pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Strain mixture through muslin into a bowl, leave overnight.
- Measure the strained juice, put it back in a pan. Add 1 cup of sugar for each cup of juice. Stir over low heat without boiling until sugar has dissolved. Boil, reduce heat slightly. Boil on low heat for about 20 minutes (15 in my case), or until mixture gels when tested.
- Add extra mint and coloring. Stir well. Remove from heat, set aside for 5 minutes. Pour into hot, sterilized jars, seal. You can label and date the jars when they're cool. Store it in cool, dark place for up to 12 months.

Quick Update!

2009-11-29T16:50:00.002+07:00

- My newest book should hit the market in a couple months' time, it's still being edited.

- I'm revising a MetroPop book and writing a TeenLit, sequel of Ratu Preman (Queen of Rascals. That is VERY yours truly. Not. He he!). I'm still also toying with some ideas for TeenLit and MetroPop novels, can't decide which one I should start first.

- Regretfully I have to close down my online shop for a while. Right now I can't spare any time and energy for that.

- I am often online in Facebook these days.

- I am so sorry but I simply cannot spare any time and effort in reading new works and giving comments. However, if you're looking for blurbs for your soon-to-be published books, feel free to email me. Chances are if you give me at least a month's notice, I'll be glad to give a blurb for you.

Talk Show in Unpad

2009-11-11T09:25:00.003+07:00

October 24, 2009, my partner and I was lucky enough to host a talk show and mini writing workshop in Psychology Department, Universitas Padjadjaran. It's nice to be able to step in my almamater after all these years, and things have changed a lot, for the better.

It was fun and entertaining (for both parties involved, I hope). The participants were enthusiastic and I hope in near future I'll be able to read their manuscripts.

Ideas, Where Do You Get Them?

2009-10-23T02:57:00.002+07:00

Readers are very fond of asking this question. And whenever I answered, "Anywhere", they aren't satisfied.

I'm giving some examples on how I get my ideas. By playing what ifs, daydreaming or even, dreaming. By observing. By experiencing.

Playing what ifs is easy, and I'm sure most of you have your fair share of them. Just use imagination to depict a scene--the more outrageous, the better! Try to imagine becoming someone else, changing your way of thinking, putting yourself in somebody's shoes. Daydreaming can be healthy and fun, as long as you know how to differentiate reality and fantasy.

Observing can be both enlightening and invigorating. There are some ways to do this. You can read or watch TV/movies. Or you can go to the crowd and observe. Use your imagination. Make some stories about the ones you've seen. This is a fun exercise as well.

How can you experience things? Well, there are times when you need to join the fun instead of waiting patiently in the corner! Ever wondered how tough becoming a singer can be? Enroll yourself in a vocal class. Take a hike and stroll in the park, try to enjoy the very small things like the sound soft rustle of leaves and the sight of soft-petaled roses.

And most importantly, BRING YOUR NOTEBOOK! Write down your ideas. Even if they refuse to come, be positive. Life is meant to be enjoyed to the fullest, and when you're happy, ideas will come running to you.

Whoa It's Been Months...

2009-10-23T02:47:00.002+07:00

...since I last blogged. I'm more active in Facebook and Plurk these days, and I'm trying my hands on Twitter as well. Plus I've been spending more time on my family and also work.

Quick update, before I blog again!
- My right arm hasn't healed completely, will visit the doc soon to confirm whether I need to undergo another surgery or not.
- I'm currently writing at least 3 stories, juggling on them. Still busy with editing and copywriting job as well. No, as usual I won't really tell what they are about. But suffice to say I'm writing 2 manuscripts for MetroPop, 2 TeenLit and one nonfiction.
- I am still on a phase so bear with me, I might not be in the mood to respond or chatter incessantly.
- I am now 33! Great age, huh!

I promise to blog again soon, that was the longest hiatus ever, I think!

A Day with My Best Friend

2009-05-20T00:21:00.001+07:00

We're both stay-at-home moms. We can be girly, prissy, even really really silly. We share the same astrological zodiac, penchant for books and bling bling stuff, also addiction to good, preferably gourmet food.

Sometimes we're shallow, even callous, all in all, we're essentially female. We love dabbling with stuff and we feel comfortable with each other despite of the fact that after all these years, we've only met... um, four or five times.

We both enjoy reading (obviously!), lazing around and writing! And soon, both of us are going to be published authors, because our pet project will be published by Gramedia Pustaka Utama.

Thank you for the make up session, Mbak Echy, and thank you my dear friend, Kori Suryani, for that wonderful day.

Meet & Greet Schedule (Bandung) UPDATED

2009-05-06T20:10:00.002+07:00

Dear readers, isman and I are going to share some tips and thoughts concerning writing and our books.

Should you happen to be in town, please be there! We'd love to meet you!

Sat, May 16, 2009
Location: Atrium IP (Istana Plaza), Bandung
Time: 10.00 - 11.00
(yours truly)

Thurs, May 21, 2009
Location: Atrium IP, Bandung
Time: 11.00 - 12.00
(isman)

Fri, May 22, 2009
Location: Atrium BSM (Bandung Super Mall)
Time: 14.00 - 16.00
(yours truly)

If you, by any chance, would like either yours truly or my darling partner to hold workshops/talkshows concerning writing at your school/campus, just email me:

primadonna.angela at gmail.com

Thank you, and see you at IP and BSM! (I hope!)

blessed be,
Primadonna Angela

This Friday

2009-04-16T10:17:00.000+07:00

17.00
Raka FM Bandung
98,8 FM

I'll be there to share some stuff concerning my newest book, Dunia Aradia!

If you happen to be in Bandung, please stay tuned! Thanks!

Indonesian Delicacies Part Four--Abon

2009-04-15T14:18:00.002+07:00

What is abon, you might ask? Most Indonesians are quite familiar with it, but I think it's not really known worldwide. Abon is processed meat, usually made of beef, chicken, or fish. It can be stored for months, even years (if you some food preservatives). Usually Indonesians use it to top their meals, like porridge, steamed rice, even bread. Abon might taste sweet to spicy, yet one thing remains for sure, it is quite tasty.

It takes quite a while to make abon. According to Desak Nyoman, founder and owner of Abon Kenanga, it takes hours to make abon. At first you boil the meat for about two hours until it's tender. Then you tear the meat to tiny pieces, carefully removing the remaining bones. Mix some blended herbs and spices (coriander, garlic, shallot, salt, lengkuas (Alpinia galanga, some kind of ginger root), salam (bay leaf), turmeric, sugar, broth) and then sautee the condiment using medium heat. Add the meat then fry it, medium heat, for about one hour. (for 2,5 kgs of meat) When it is done, use some kind of filter to remove the excess oil, press it with a spoon. Stir with a spoon, and it is done! The whole process takes about 6 hours.

I tried some products from Abon Kenanga and they hook yours truly (including my family and kids). This abon is crunchy and tasty, and the most important thing, it does not use any preservatives.

If you happen to be in Jogjakarta, you can visit this home industry at:
Jalan Solo Km 9
Gg. Kenanga 235
(in front of Adisucipto Airport)

You can stay at a nearby hotel for a more comfortable visit.

You can also order the abon online...
dk_dessaque@yahoo.co.id

Handmade Gifts from the Heart

2009-03-29T19:39:00.000+07:00

I got these cute bookmarks from a creative, prolific writer. The problem is, I think they are too lovely and I'm afraid of using them! I'm touched because she took the time to create something special for yours truly.

Thank thee, A, may creativities and inspirations never cease to leave your side!

Gift from Atashi no Shin Yu

2009-03-29T18:16:00.000+07:00

Recuperating from a broken arm really fouls my mood. Thankfully I'm blessed with close friends who understand me well. Last week I got a nice surprise from my best friend. She sent me Ayura body and hand cream. They smell heavenly! And she also sent me some pictures from her previous visit to Bandung. She gave ochazuke--which is almost gone (yeah, I'm such a glutton) and ocha cookies. The cookies taste rather weird yet strangely addictive.

Arigatou nee, shin yu, aishiteru!!!

Dunia Aradia, My 14th Book!

2009-03-19T10:58:00.001+07:00

Will be published on March 24, 2009! And it's a fantasy novel. Hopefully the readers will love it.

Thanks Maryna, for the lovely cover!

Aradia Morgana. Pertengahan dua puluhan. Selain karena menjadi penerjemah, tuntutan pekerjaan membuatnya banyak bepergian. Tidak dengan menggunakan kendaraan biasa, namun dengan cara teleportasi!

Sebagai Ratu Penyihir, Aradia harus pandai-pandai memilah dunia nyata dan dunia yang ia perintah. Memilih tinggal bersama manusia biasa, Aradia punya mimpi yang sederhana. Suatu saat menemukan pria yang dicintainya, yang bisa menerimanya sepenuh hati.

Tapi bagaimana kalau ia harus memilih, antara seorang shadowlord--musuh bebuyutan para penyihir--dan malaikat pelindungnya? Bagaimana kalau di masa pemerintahan Aradia, nasib dunia sihir tergantung pada keputusannya?

Scars

2009-03-17T05:08:00.001+07:00

Some scars will heal and fade in time, but most will be freshly etched in one's memory. For me, it will serve as a reminder to be more careful and wary in the future.

(Note: I didn't dare to take a picture when the bandages were first opened because the scars really looked scary and ghastly then. Even my parents said the sight was enough to give them nightmares. )

MO Baru Penipuan? (Sekadar Berbagi)

2009-03-15T23:14:00.000+07:00

Sudah beberapa hari ini kompleks perumahan ini diteror orang nggak jelas. Diawali dari telepon di pagi hari dengan logat ajaib yang tidak kukenal. Kurang lebih percakapannya seperti ini.

Aku: Halo...
Orang Gila 1 (OG1): Halo? Bisa bicara dengan Bapak?
Aku: Bapak siapa?
OG1: Bapak di rumah ini.
Aku: (berkata bahwa bapak di rumah ini sedang di kamar mandi)
OG1: Begini, tetangga di Jalan Anda no 2, Bapak ABC (nama, nama jalan, dan nomor disamarkan) sedang keluar kota, ke Jakarta.
Aku: Apa hubungannya dengan saya?
OG1: Dia menitipkan 57 juta di rumah Ibu.
Aku: (kesal) Yang bener lah. Pasti salah sambung. Nggak ada yang begitu.
OG1: Tunggu dulu Bu, dengar dulu. Ini bukan salah sambung. Ibu kan tinggal di Jalan Anda no 1, tetangga Ibu menitipkan uangnya, katanya ambil saja ke sana.
Aku: Heh! Jangan mengada-ada ya! Kalau memang merasa demikian lapor saja ke kantor polisi!
OG1: Oh silakan Bu, soalnya 57 juta itu...
Aku: (menutup telepon karena merasa ngapain juga meladenin orang sinting)

Kurang lebih 30 menitan ada telepon lagi.

Aku: Halo?
OG2: Halo? Halo? (kali ini dengan logat Batak yang sangat medok) Mana Bapaknya?
Aku: Mau bicara dengan Bapak siapa?
OG2: Ya, Bapak lah...
Aku: (mulai merasa ada yang nggak beres) Bapak siapa ya? (ingin memastikan ni orang beneran tahu nama atau ngasal)
OG2: Ya Bapak kau, lah!
Aku: (dengan logat Batak imitasi) KAU sendiri SIAPA? (langsung mematikan telepon)

Eh mungkin satu-dua jam kemudian ada telepon. OG1. Intinya dia masih keukeuh ada uang 57 juta di sini. Kali pertama kubilang dia sinting dan harusnya menelepon RSJ. Dia telepon lagi dan aku memaki-makinya sebagai orang gila. Kali ketiga dia menelepon dan langsung kusemprot, "Mau apa kau? Main hipnotis? Teroris? Serahkan aja diri ke polisi biar polisi yang urus uangnya!"

Kemudian karena penasaran aku menelepon Bapak ABC. Kata Bapak ABC, dia pun ditelepon ngakunya tetangga di Jalan Anda no 3 berutang 10 juta dan uangnya dititipkan ke dia. Ya sudahlah kuanggap si penelepon itu benar-benar orang sakit dan telepon untuk sementara kugantung.

Aku kesal sekali seharian itu, merasa stress. Sampai isman mengingatkan ya sudahlah namanya orang geblek, diladenin makin senang lah.

Besoknya tidak ada telepon aneh. Malamnya saat isman pulang, dicegat oleh tetangga lain. Ternyata para tetangga menerima telepon-telepon gelap yang sama.

isman diajak ngobrol bareng, cukup lama juga. Pulang-pulang dia terlihat kesal.

Ternyata tetangga lain, sebut sajalah namanya Bapak DEF, malah menanggapi si orang gelo. Malah saat diberitahu yang berutang di Jalan Anda no 2, Bapak DEF berkata, loh itu kan rumah Bapak ABC, nomor teleponnya sekian-sekian, hubungi saja dia! Malah ditanggapin. Saya nggak mungkin ada uang segitu Pak, Bapak salah informasi... intinya yang diucapkan semua kampret itu diladenin.

D'OH! Ini kan sama saja memberi amunisi. Dari yang mungkin pekerjaan orang iseng tidak tahu nama (seseorang bisa dengan mudah tahu notel dari sebuah alamat dengan cara menelepon 108, try it if you want, tapi 108 takkan memberitahukan nama), sekarang dapat nama, dan dapat korban buat diintimidasi. Bapak DEF diancam akan diobrak-abrik rumahnya dan akan dibunuh, yang membuat Pak DEF sekeluarga stress.

Besoknya, sedihnya, ada telepon lagi ke rumah. (Jangan-jangan karena ada reaksi dari tetangga, jadi si gila berharap rumah ini pun bisa diintimidasi!)

OG2: Halo? Halo?
Aku: Apa lagi?
OG2: Mana Bapak kau?!
Aku: (berkata dalam hati, Papa, maafkan aku, tapi ini iseng semata) Bapak aku udah tewas! Kau mau bicara sama dia? Ke akhirat saja sana! (menutup telepon dan menggantungnya)

Dunia aman tenteram. Keesokan harinya, saat pagi hari telepon kembali kupasang, lagi-lagi si penelepon. Kubiarkan dia nyap2 sekitar 5 menit, lalu telepon kututup dan kugantung sampai malam.

Besok paginya, dia telepon lagi. Biasalah aku diamin dan lama-lama mati sendiri. Nah, saat itu kupikir biar sajalah dulu. Kali-kali dia telepon lagi.

Benar, tak lama kemudian berderinglah telepon...

OG2: Halo? Halo? Mana si ABC! Suruh dia ke telepon!
Aku: (hening)
OG2: Halo? Halo?
Aku: (dengan suara keras membahana dan irama mars) HALOOOO HALOOO BANDUNG!

Klik. Kututup telepon sambil menggeleng-geleng. Untungnya semenjak insiden Halo Halo Bandung dia tidak menelepon lagi sampai sekarang.

Kupikir semua sudah berakhir. Ternyata pagi ini asistenku cerita, Bapak DEF masih diteror, bahkan ditelepon malam-malam. Sampai Ibu DEF stress dan sakit. Kasihan juga sebenarnya tapi bagaimana ya. Kupikir kalau Bapak DEF memilih untuk tidak menanggapi seperti yang kulakukan dan tetangga2 lain lakukan, para kampret tidak akan sereaktif itu. Apalagi Bapak DEF sampai membocorkan informasi pribadi, bahkan memanggil polisi segala.

Yah, aku dan isman beranggapan ini MO baru dalam berusaha menipu. Dan karena inilah aku semakin khawatir berbagi informasi pribadi. Jangan harap aku mau begitu saja memberitahukan nama dan alamat apalagi notel! Value your privacy. Bahkan tidak mengumbar data ke mana-mana saja orang masih bisa mendapatkan data kita. Don't make it easier for others to prey on us!

Sebenarnya tetangga yang satu ini juga entah ya, tak tahulah apa berusaha keras kelihatan ramah atau bagaimana namun membahayakan. Aku ingat waktu dulu sendirian di rumah dan Aza masih bayi, asisten lagi pulang kampung dan isman ke kantor. Saat aku menjemur Aza di pagi hari, Bapak dan Ibu DEF akan berseru lantang, "HOOO LAGI SENDIRIAN DI RUMAH YA? ISMAN KE KANTOR YA? NGGAK ADA SIAPA-SIAPA YA?" Haiyah mana di sana ada tukang sayur, orang gak jelas berseliweran, tukang! Gimana kalau ada yang berniat jahat?

Sebutlah aku parno kalau terlalu curigaan. Tapi prinsip yang diajarkan orangtuaku, USE YOUR COMMON SENSE! Intinya jangan memberi orang lain senjata untuk tahu hal detail mengenai kita. Urusan di rumah ada orang sekampung atau sendirian tak perlu lah dipromosikan begitu.

Tetap waspada, dan kalau jelas-jelas ada yang ngaco tak perlu lah ditanggapin.

Semoga dalam waktu 1-2 minggu si kutukupret capek telepon-telepon ke kompleks ini. Semoga saja mereka juga kapok kalau mau mencoba menipu orang lain. Dan semoga juga para tetangga sini dan orang lain yang membaca jadi lebih berhati-hati untuk tidak membeberkan informasi pribadi begitu saja!

Most Common Questions Asked

2009-03-08T20:12:00.002+07:00

It's funny how people try to strike a conversation with an injured person like yours truly. At first they stare at my right arm, for, lessay, at least sixty seconds. Then they clear their throat and utter something like...

1. My goodness, what happened?
(Why oh why after answering that I fell from a chair they usually look disappointed? Maybe they expected me to say something like, "My husband loves to abuse me!" followed with fake sobs.)

2. Did you fall from a motorcycle?

3. How many stitches did you get?
(Heck, how should I know? I was sedated!!! And why should I, or you, care?)

4. (And the worst question of all!) Does it hurt?

Gosh! This is the X-Ray picture of my right arm before the operation. Do you want ME to fix your right arm in similar condition? I'd gladly do so and ask you the same question later.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Chika!

2009-02-24T17:32:00.000+07:00

Happy birthday, my daughter, may love, happiness, luck and Lord's blessings fill your days and nights.

This night, two years ago, your pacih and manyih were still in the hospital, trying to enjoy the lousy movies on TV and wishing we could all return home ASAP.

Recovery Blues

2009-02-23T04:22:00.000+07:00

1. I am stilll in a lot of pain. Mostly I can ignore it but sometimes I can't stop myself from crying. Chika usually cries as well when she sees me in this state.

2. Chika sometimes can't accept the fact that I cannot breastfeed her anymore. Heck, even I find it hard.

3. Aza sometimes likes to caress my broken arm and it touches me.

4. I manage to write albeit slowly. At least I feel useful.

5. I'm due for the doctor this Wed.

6. Tomorrow's Chika's 2nd birthday. Hopefully the pain will lessen them.

7. Tried to work with a voice recorder and got an idea to work on a new story. It has to wait.

I'm Home

2009-02-20T08:39:00.000+07:00

At last. Broke my right hand and for a month or so I'll find it hard to work. Good thing I finished my 15th manuscript a few days ago. I won't be able to bead but write? Count on it!

Thanks for those who prayed for me and visited me in the hospital.

Indonesian Delicacies Part Three--Sate

2009-02-16T08:25:00.000+07:00

Indonesian sate (or satay, as some prefer to call it) is actually skewered meat, usually made of chicken, beef, mutton, duck, fish and on rare occasions, eggs, fish or vegetable. You can easily buy sate ayam, sapi, kambing (chicken, beef, mutton) in classy restaurants or even street hawkers. In some areas, sate peddlers sell their wares at night, some even venture to walk around near midnight. Their famous shout, "te, sate!" can sometimes be an answer to a hungry person's prayer.

Making sate takes quite a long time. First, you have to cut the meat to appropriate pieces. Then you marinate it in special sauce (mainly consists of soy sauce). After some time, you roast it, traditionally in a grill using coals. Peanut sauce is poured into the sate. (Bear in mind that Sate Padang--sate from West Sumatra, made of beef--uses a different kind of sauce, it has turmeric in it and the taste is quite spicy. Generally, Indonesian sate is rather sweet, even though the peanut sauce can be a bit spicy.)

Some people prefer to eat sate with steamed rice, some prefer lontong. Lontong is made of rice and water. In order to make lontong, you will add certain amount of rice and plain water inside a piece of banana leaf. Then you'll roll the leaf into some sort of tube, fasten the edges, afterwards boil it in plain water. After some time, the lontong will be ready to eat. Unwrap the banana leaf, chop the lontong tubes into some pieces, ready to be served! (I'll post the picture of lontong some other time.) Some also serve sate with pickled cucumber and chili.

This picture shows sate bebek (duck sate), with slices of tomato and cucumber as garnish.

UPI, Here We Come!

2009-02-16T07:55:00.000+07:00

isman and I will be holding a mini workshop/talkshow concerning writing and presentation tomorrow.

Where: Gedung Baru PKM, beside Masjid UPI, Bandung
When: 14.00 - 16.00

If you're around, please be there!

Indonesian Delicacies Part Two--Nasi Goreng

2009-02-15T18:17:00.000+07:00

This dish is fairly easy to make, and it's quite tasty as well. Indonesians usually eat nasi goreng (or fried rice) for breakfast, or even late at night (some peddlers sell nasi goreng at this time). But in my house, we eat nasi goreng whenever we want, be it for breaktfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or in-between meals.

To make nasi goreng, you're going to need steamed rice. Then you're going to need soy sauce (some prefer not to use it, it's your call), your favorite ingredients (meaning, diced chicken, beef, corned beef, mutton, chili, prawns, etc.) and eggs (optional). Do you prefer spicy nasi goreng? Add chili and lots of pepper. Would you prefer a vegetarian nasi goreng? Sure, just toss in the vegetables of your choice.

You can garnish nasi goreng with telur ceplok (egg, sunny side up) and/or slices of tomatoes and cucumbers. Some prefer to add chili or tomato sauce to nasi goreng. Some people, like my partner, love to add more soy sauce to it. And some, like yours truly, consider it a SACRILEGE!

Where can you get nasi goreng? Almost everywhere. From peddlers who walk round housing complex to five-starred restaurants. There are many varieties of nasi goreng, so I'm sure you can find at least one to your liking.

Indonesian Delicacies Part One--Gulali

2009-02-09T16:25:00.000+07:00

Indonesia, beside being the largest archipelago in the world, is one of the richest nations when it comes to dishes and condiments. As a proud Indonesian, I feel compelled to share the vast varieties of Indonesian delicacies. I'm going to start with gulali.

Gulali is actually colored caramel. They are sold by peddlers who move their wares around. Usually these peddlers are found near schools. The peddler creates unique, amazing shapes by hand. Stars, hearts, flowers, fish, horses, chickens, balloons (gulali peddlers can skillfully create gulali that can be blown, and the result will resemble a balloon) and so many more!

In order to make a gulali, you should prepare the basic dough. I asked the peddler shown in this picture, and he told me for 1 kilogram of sugar, you should use about 1 cup of water. Boil them for a while and then add food coloring. In order to be able to work with the dough, you should always simmer it in low heat. Therefore, you have to be able to stand the heat! I also asked him, how long have you been selling gulali? He told me five years, and it took some time (although he did not specify how long is "some time") before he could create beautiful shapes.

If you watch a gulali peddler work, you might be amazed because it's not a simple matter! And for only IDR 2,000 per piece (about 20 American cents)! The entertainment we have from watching certainly worths more than that!

7 February 2009, in Tasikmalaya!

2009-02-05T06:01:00.000+07:00

isman and I are going to Tasikmalaya!

When?
February 7, 2009
14.00 - 16.00

Where?
Gramedia Book Store Tasikmalaya

What?
Talkshow & Sharing Concerning Writing

If you're in town, BE THERE!

I'm Going to Jakarta!

2009-01-30T14:10:00.000+07:00

Tomorrow, at Istora Senayan, Ruang Anggrek.
14.00-17.00!
Can't wait!

And I have prepared the deck and pendulum to tell some people's fortunes.

Be there if you can! ^_^

Fortune-Telling Workshop!

2009-01-21T04:07:00.000+07:00

Plus meet & greet! Loads of freebies and insights (and who knows, mayhap inspirations as well?) are waiting for you!

Where...
Ruang Anggrek Istora Senayan, Jakarta

When...
14.00 - 17.00

Who...
Yudi, Agung "Mbot" Nugroho, isman h. suryaman and yours truly... and of course, YOU!

Why...
It's fun! Entertaining! Magalicious!

What...
As mentioned above, there will be meet & greet sessions, talkshow and fortune-telling workshop! Bring along a copy of my latest book, Meramal Yuuuk!, for a free reading! (Only several lucky ones will get the chance to have their fortune told!)

Be there!!!

Favorite Brooch...

2009-01-20T08:11:00.000+07:00

...at this moment. I fell in love with this oval-shaped stone, and decided to make a brooch using that stone as a focal point. So I did.

I am so into making brooches lately. When I am stressed, it feels wonderful to gather numerous beads in lovely colors and create something wonderful from scratch.

I even have a new motto. A brooch a day, keep the willies at bay. He he.

My Pretty Cure Chikachan

2009-01-19T17:45:00.000+07:00

When Nyachan gave Chika this outfit, I didn't actually catch the name of the anime. She said, "It's a cosplay from an anime!" isman and I don't actually follow new anime so we have no idea what it is.

Yesterday, when accompanying Aza watching the TV, I found out that the title of the anime is PRETTY CURE!

Aw...! Kawaii desu!

So we decided that on her coming birthday next month, she will both wear this Pretty Cure outfit and a yukata.

I can't believe that she will turn two soon... how time flies.

Arigatou, Nyachan, Non, Shochan & Kochan!

Skewered Eggs

2009-01-19T09:39:00.000+07:00

I find it hard to explain this dish to foreign people. And yes, yes, it's made of eggs. Not the regular ones, mind you, but the ones that are still inside chicken's bodies. The ones that haven't formed the shells.

To me it's a rare delicacy. It's quite hard to find in Bandung, at least to my knowledge. My partner and I bought it yesterday and I had a jolly evening finishing them all.

Current Favorite Dish

2009-01-19T08:11:00.000+07:00

Nyachan and her family has been kind enough to shower us with Japanese stuff and condiments. And this is my favorite so far. It's very easy to make and quite tasty to my standard.

First, you just need to prepare some steamed rice. Then you pour the condiment on it. Afterwards, pour approx. 150 ml of boiling water to it. Mmm! Ready to eat!

Who Wants to Have Her/His Fortune Told in Kompas Gramedia Fair?

2009-01-08T06:19:00.000+07:00

Kompas Gramedia Fair in Istora Jakarta! A huge event covering books, bibliophiles, books, bibliophiles and need I say it once more, books? I'll be there!

Date: January 31, 2009 (Saturday)
Time: 14.00 - 17.00
Talkshow, Meet & Greet, Fortune-Telling (esp. fortune-telling, 16.00 - 17.00)

So who wants to have her/his fortune told? It's free! Just bring along (or you can buy it in the event) my latest book called Meramal, Yuuuk! And I'll gladly read your palms or use cards to tell your fortune.

A Package from Korea

2009-01-05T05:59:00.000+07:00

Early this morning I got a hefty package from a friend in Korea. I'm very, very surprised because along with the Hello Kitty calculator that he promised (well, it's a barter actually... isman's newest book for a black calculator!) he gave me lots of brochures, dried ginkgo and maple leaves... and to my delight, a lux book about French Alps.

I'm very touched and surprised with these. They are incredible materials for my future books. Thank thee, Mr. M, may Lord bless thee always!!!

Purple Flowers

2008-12-31T11:59:00.000+07:00

I noticed these flowers after taking pictures of the snail. They are wild and proud of it. Elegant yet powerful. And they dare to climb the steel wire that people arrogantly put there.

They are not fancy roses, smelling oh-so-sweetly and beckoning people to admire their looks. They are not jasmines, with their demure appearance and lethal fragrance. And they are definitely not lotuses, gracing some people's homes or ponds, defiant and aloof.

Yet to me, they are a symbol of strength. And triumph.

Snail!

2008-12-31T11:36:00.000+07:00

"Siput", Aza commented when we returned home from his kindergarten. "Mami, take a pic! Take a pic!"

I don't know why boys seem to be fascinated with snails and insects. Humoring him, I took my camera and shot a couple of pics.

"Cute," Aza said, while I shuddered in reply. "I wonder how they move, Mami? Where are the eyes? Can I touch it? Will you take it home? Where does it live?"

I guess even patient moms have their limits. I told him the snail brought its home wherever it moved. Then Aza said, "Can I have a home like that too?"

Some Brooches

2008-12-29T00:07:00.000+07:00

I've been making lots and lots of brooches lately. Don't know why, but mixing colors and different-shaped beads together, forming a brooch, can be fun. As you can see, my creations vary from the typical (boring, predictable designs, like my partner call sit) to the bizarre. There are many more that I haven't photographed.

Beading is a new hobby. I never thought I'd be able to create tangible things. Sure, I could write, and even though I have given up the hope to be able to draw or paint well, I suppose I can "paint" things using my writing. But now, being able to bead many things make me feel happy and energized.

Sian

2008-12-27T20:38:00.000+07:00

My partner calls her "Sian", from "SI ANjing" or "kaSIAN". She's a stray dog who likes to frequent our house. In fact, she's been here for more than two months. Maybe three?

She used to have six puppies. My neighbor considered them noisy, so they asked the security around here to remove the dogs. They took the puppies but they couldn't catch the mother so they let her be.

For several weeks the dog howls endlessly. And y'know what? It's wayyy louder than usual. Truth to tell I'm quite annoyed with my neighbor for not following through their order. They prefer a mature dog howling pitifully compared to the yowlings of the puppies, it's their business. They take no pity on the mother who mourns the loss of her kids, well, hey, it's their choice.

Sian is a meek dog, as you can tell. Even a stray cat doesn't feel threatened with her presence.

Target 2009

2008-12-25T21:15:00.000+07:00

1. Write at least one book.

2. Learn at least one new skill.

3. Ignore people who insist in giving me "bad vibes and influences".

They should be enough for now.

Thank Thee, Lord, for I managed to fulfill all of my targets this year.

You've Got It, Use It Well!

2008-11-28T08:56:00.000+07:00

You know what they say, with great powers come great responsibility? It is true. You have your own power. And you have the power to choose on how to wield it. Do you want to use it to hep others? Hurt the ones that you consider enemies?

With greater powers, bigger abilities, you need to be more careful. Oh sure, you can hoard the power all you like, use it to enrich yourself. It is, after all, your choice. Word of caution though, if you use it for your own good, then your life will become stagnant. Use it against others to harm, then you are doomed. Darker powers seek to corrupt, twist and then consume you.

When Lord grants you a power, you have a responsibility to use it well!

And it saddens me to know some use theirs to destroy others...

I Went to Pesta Blogger 2008!

2008-11-23T17:53:00.000+07:00

All in all, it was fun. I got to meet lots of people. About 1,000 people were there! Unfortunately, I only talked to a few of them, ha ha.

And oh, I looove the goodie bag. And the freebies! (Who doesn't, dear?)

I accidentally met a fellow writer, and here I was posing with her book. I chatted with several interesting people. So far I've only "met" them online. I also met Mike Aquino from the Philippines, Anthony Bianco from Australia and Mark Tafoya from the States. They are very friendly and I'm glad we had a chance to talk.

I also met a journalist from The Jakarta Globe. We talked for a while then isman and I went to the nearby Pizza Hut to attend "another blogger party". We had dinner at SCBD then headed home.

I hope there'll be another Pesta Blogger next year!

10 Facts About Me (Ditimpuk Ollie)

2008-11-10T19:53:00.000+07:00

What else can I say about yours truly? Apparently I have said a lot--too much, perhaps. But then again, how can I refuse a chance to share (boring facts) concerning yours truly?

1. My looks can be deceptive. You might think that I am meek, obedient, eager to please others, sweet-natured kind of girl. Well. I can be. Yet most of the time I'm the opposite.

2. I'm simply unique. Different, you might say. I might have different opinions from my peers. I don't usually follow the crowd.

3. I'm a loner. From time to time it's okay for me to socialize, yet I need time alone to recharge my moods.

4. I don't respond well to threats and emotional blackmails. Should one try to do so, I might squash her or him with all my might, discreetly.

5. I love eating! Some say that I'm obsessed with food. One telling sign: read my works, and you'll note that I often put descriptions of food there.

6. I am petite, about 5f 3in. (157-158 cms) Yet most people who only know me through pictures say that I look taller.

7. I hate shallow-minded people. I don't mind being shallow now and then, but if a person shows no capacity in having deep conversations, then rest assured, (s)he'll never be a good friend of mine.

8. I feel that some places "call" me. Some of them are Guilin in China, Kyoto in Japan, Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, Vienna in Austria, Den Haag in Holland, New Orleans in the States (and a few more). I have strong desire and wish to be able to visit those places one day.

9. I love sharp, exotic weapons. I also love folding knives. My favorite brand is Spyderco.

10. When I'm playing RPG (in PC), I can't bear to be a bad guy. If and only if I accidentally kills an innocent NPC, I'll surely reload the game. Once I couldn't sleep because I "killed" someone. I had to replay the game to ease my conscience.

=======

Who else? Well, if you are reading this, then you are NEXT!

I Found a Box...

2008-10-26T13:36:00.000+07:00

...from the past. I opened it a bit and then stopped... why should I? Why shouldn't I? Should I open closed memories, the ones that I can barely remember? What will I find? How should I deal with it? Am I brave enough to unleash a can of worms? Or do I want to risk finding something golden and sweet?

I can be a coward. I can act courageous. At times.

What do I fear? Myself? My own traitorous feelings?

And now I have reached a decision. I'm going to open it anyway.

I'm Still Ambivalent About This

2008-10-25T00:23:00.000+07:00

See, lately somebody that I really care about push me to the edge. I feel like being pushed to a deep pool--or bottomless sea, even--and I have no idea how to swim or let alone survive.

Yet that friend (for convenience sake, let's call that friend "A") just laughed when I told A this. A said I was more than equipped to handle myself. And A keeps pushing me. Dragging me, if I may say, to things that might bring doom and gloom.

Imagine yourself, blind and clueless, entering a huge, dark cavern filled with malicious things. Armed with diverse imagination, conviction that you cannot fail because it's not an option, you force yourself upward.

Aye, A, I still resent you for doing this. I know you have your own opinion, and when you shared it with me, I appreciated the logic. Yet the emotional side of me still refuse to accept. I feel like I'm alone. So alone. And it hurts.

And I'm still ambivalent about this. Part of me wants you to read this so you'll understand. Another part wants you to stay away from this post, for I fear, even though you have read all of these you still won't understand my anguish. My worries.

And I know I'm being irrational. Unfair. You meant well, even though your methods, to me, are sometimes harsh. Do it first, then you'll get instructions. You should do this because if you don't, you'll only be other people's toys.

Do you have any idea how much that scares me? I'd rather you tell me all the rules so when I move head on to battleground, at least I have a clue on what I'm doing.

I'll just wallow in self-pity and try to accept. I will, eventually. Like the fact that no matter how much it may hurt me, I still care and love you. Even if you claim you do not share the same sentiments.

And for others who do not understand, don't attempt to do so. This is just a rambling post, and I need to write it down to find peace.

Buku Gratisan Lagi! ^_^

2008-10-17T04:43:00.000+07:00

Dapatkan Lima Buku Eksklusif Pertama! (Gratis + Tanda Tangan Pengarang)

Judul: Ocehan Si Mbot: Gilanya Orang Kantoran
Penulis: Agung "Mbot" Nugroho
(Berdasarkan blog mbot.multiply.com)

Ocehan Si Mbot mengajak kita menertawakan mitos yang berseliweran tentang dunia kerja. Cocok bagi kalian yang sedang, pernah, akan, atau bahkan menolak menjadi orang kantoran! Misalnya nih...

Mitos: banyak buku panduan wawancara kerja yang menyarankan untuk, “Jawablah semua pertanyaan dengan percaya diri!”

Fakta: buku-buku itu lupa menambahkan, “Bedakan antara pede dan belagu.”

_____________________

“Tidak dapat dihitung berapa kali saya tersenyum dan tertawa ketika membaca buku ini. Mbot is dangerously funny!”

--Ninit Yunita, Penulis Test Pack

“Buku ini wajib baca kalo elo mau nangis ketawa.”

--Adhitya Mulya, Penulis Jomblo

____________________

Ada lima buku pertama yang ditandatangani langsung oleh penulisnya. Tertarik mendapatkan buku ini? Gampang kok. Gabung saja di milis Buku-Buku.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bukubuku

Terus tulis email ke milis dengan subjek “Kuis: Meramal untuk Ocehan Si Mbot”. Isinya menceritakan:

1) Nama kamu

2) Satu ramalan yang kamu coba dari buku Meramal Yuuuk! (dan hasilnya gimana). Semakin seru, semakin oke.

Lima orang yang ceritanya paling seru akan mendapatkan buku Ocehan Si Mbot gratis. Dan ditandatangani langsung oleh pengarangnya!

Tunggu apa lagi? Ayo gabung ke milis Buku-Buku dan bagi ceritamu sekarang!

Buku Gratis! Siapa yang Mau?

2008-10-17T04:34:00.000+07:00

Dapatkan Lima Buku Eksklusif Pertama! (Gratis + Tanda Tangan Pengarang)

Meramal Yuuuk!: Ceriakan Harimu Menggunakan Benda Sehari-hari
Oleh: Primadonna Angela

Ribet masalah kantor? Quarter-life crisis? Atau ada pilihan yang bikin bingung? Santai saja. Sebenarnya jawabannya udah ada dalam diri kita. Tinggal gimana kita menyadarinya.

Itulah inti meramal dalam buku ini: membantu kita mengeluarkan jawaban yang terpendam dalam diri. Bukan nujum-nujuman. Kagak pake ribet bawa-bawa bola kristal. Atau mahal-mahal beli kartu Tarot.

Pake aja benda sehari-hari: kartu remi, kalung, hiasan HP, koin, batu, atau sendok es krim. Bahkan makanan seperti es krim pun bisa kita pake ngeramal.

Nggak mau nyari jawaban juga oke. Bisa juga kita ngeramal sekadar buat senang-senang. Atau bahan ketawaan sama teman.

_____________________

“Yang bikin gue demen, benda yang digunakan ada di sekitar. Jadi gak susah nyarinya... Ah, ya, hati-hati laper. Ada resep masakannya.”

--Mei Ling, gamer

____________________

Ada lima buku pertama yang ditandatangani langsung oleh penulisnya. Tertarik mendapatkan buku gratis ini? Gampang kok. Gabung aja di milis Buku-Buku.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bukubuku

Terus tulis email ke milis dengan subjek “Kuis: Ngoceh tentang Ngeramal”. Isinya menceritakan:

1) Nama kamu

2) Situasi apa yang bikin elo pengin bisa ngeramal. Semakin asyik, semakin oke.

Lima orang yang ceritanya paling asyik akan mendapatkan buku Meramal Yuuuk! gratis. Dan ditandatangani langsung oleh pengarangnya!

Tunggu apa lagi? Ayo gabung ke milis Buku-Buku dan bagi ocehanmu sekarang!

Mau Buku Gratisan? Aneka Hadiah Menarik?

2008-10-14T04:28:00.000+07:00

Silakan ikuti milis bukubuku@yahoogroups.com... tempatnya berdiskusi dan berbagi cerita mengenai buku-buku favoritmu. Sering-seringlah berpartisipasi karena ada berbagai buku dan hadiah unik yang menanti!

I am Officially an Acquiring Editor in Gramedia Pustaka Utama!

2008-10-12T20:30:00.000+07:00

And what is an acquiring editor, you might ask? An editor who acquires manuscripts!

Begini saja, dalam bahasa Indonesia saja daripada salah persepsi. Toh untuk sementara naskah yang dicari untuk diterbitkan menggunakan bahasa Indonesia.

Aku dan isman, alhamdulillah, diberi kepercayaan oleh GPU menyeleksi naskah untuk diterbitkan. Untuk sementara kita konsennya ke nonfiksi dulu. Naskah seperti apa yang dicari? Pertama-tama, aku sarankan coba lihat-lihat dan baca-baca buku nonfiksi terbitan GPU. Naskah yang diutamakan untuk ditilik dan diterbitkan adalah yang...

1. bersifat ringan, menghibur, namun tetap berisi.
2. diutamakan sesuai dengan tren dan memiliki visi yang jelas. Misal, mengirimkan naskah di bulan Oktober, berkaitan dengan Natal, untuk diterbitkan di bulan Desember.
3. tidak terlalu tebal (maksimal 150 halaman A4, spasi 1,5).
4. ditujukan untuk target audience sekitar 15-40 tahun. Tidak harus semua ya. Bisa saja 15-25 tahun, atau 25-40 tahunan...
5. ditulis dengan gaya bahasa yang mudah dicerna namun tidak terlalu "gaul". (Catatan: menggunakan "secara" sangat tidak dianjurkan! Ini preferensi editor sih, hehe.)

Kamu punya naskah seperti itu? Kirimkan saja ke naskahmu@gmail.com ya! Nanti akan ditilik. Paling lama 3 bulan kamu akan mendapatkan umpan balik atau kepastian naskahmu diterima atau tidak.

Mengenai royalti, sistem editing, kontrak, dsb. sesuai dengan standar GPU ya.

Siap untuk menerbitkan karyamu di Gramedia Pustaka Utama? Segera kirimkan naskah nonfiksi terbaikmu!

Meramal Yuuuk! My 13th Book. Coming Soon!

2008-10-08T10:19:00.000+07:00

Meramal Yuuuk!--Ceriakan Harimu Menggunakan Benda Sehari-Hari

Harga	:	Rp 25.000,- *
Ukuran	:	13,5 x 17 cm
Tebal	:	152 halaman
Terbit	:	Oktober 2008

"Meramal kan sulit. Mesti pake Tarot yang mahal, baca rajah tangan, atau repot-repot bawa bola kristal. Terus, mesti punya indera keenam!"

Eit, kata siapa? Siapa pun bisa meramal. Ribet dapat alatnya? Pakai saja benda sehari-hari: kartu remi, kalung, boneka, batu, sampai sendok es krim. Bahkan pakai es krimnya (atau makanan lain) pun bisa. Penasaran? Baca saja buku ini. Kamu bakalan bisa meramal untuk bersenang-senang. Baik sendiri maupun bersama teman. Selamat mencoba dan bergembira!

I am Now 32!

2008-10-07T18:12:00.000+07:00

And proud of it. At 32 I am content with what I have. I have a loving partner, two adorable kids, career that I love and wonderful family & friends.

Thanks to all who spent some time in congratulating me. Be it through Friendster, Multiply, Facebook, SMS, phone, plurk, YM... and others. I hope the following year will be filled with love and laughter as well!