I Love You, You Love Me

Yes, you read that title right. I have been hearing that song non-stop all week! The kids sing it every morning and then the teachers actually sing or hum it throughout the day. And I think they like it! The only thing that gets me through is singing the "other" lyrics in my head every time I hear someone sing or hum it. I'm so tempted to teach it to the kids. Maybe on my last day of school...

I was told before coming here that Indonesians are really quiet and shy. Well, I haven't really seen that. The people at my school and in my community are actually really loud. It seems like they yell all the time, like that is their only volume control. However, no one talks to me so that may be the shy factor.

They often play American music on the loudspeakers at the mall. Only it is cheesy 80s & 90s music, which I love! The other day I was singing along to "I'll Be Your Everything" by Tommy Page! Oh, that takes me back to junior high. Yeah, so there are many times when I use that phrase but, it is just so classic to be listening to Tommy Page and Styx and Air Supply! Now if they would just play a little New Kids on the Block...

Last night I went to the Food Festival with some new friends. I, of course, was the only bule (Westerner) there. It's this outdoor area with a bunch of food shops, carnival games, stores and a concert stage. We ate at a yummy restaurant and then listened to the concert. The guy sang songs in Indonesian but also sang Ne-Yo and Usher. But when they started singing "End of the Road" by Boyz II Men, I about lost it! It was actually really good, so good that I am not sure they weren't lip syncing. But the Boyz II Men part reminded me of going to their concert with Kristi and Travis. Mmm, I still love Boyz II Men! Anyway, at this concert (the one yesterday) there were some guys taking pictures. I swear they had their camera on me most of the time. It's weird. They want to take pictures of me at things because if they get a picture of a bule there, then Indonesians will want to come. So, apparently, I am cool in Indonesia. Oh, if they only knew...

My new house is pretty nice. I like it there. I am excited to have a front yard and a back patio! However, I do not have a oven. I don't think they do ovens here. So, I am trying to figure out recipes that don't require an oven. There goes my thoughts of making Birthday chicken on my birthday! So, if you have any recipe ideas, send them my way! I do have a microwave, toaster over, stove top, and giant rice cooker. And I am thinking about getting a crock pot. I also do not have a washing machine. I am thinking about getting one. They are about $300 here. Starting in August, I will hire someone to come in once a week to clean and do the laundry. And all for $20 a month! I love Indonesia!

So, I discovered the Super Wal-mart of Indonesia. It is called Hypermart. They have lots of stuff for pretty cheap there! Well, everything in Indonesia is cheap. But, they have everything there! I was pretty excited to discover this as I had no idea where to find a broom or mop or dish towels or an alarm clock or ...

Just for your entertainment, let me share with you the typical conversation I have with Indonesians when we first meet:

Me: Hi, I'm Heather.
Them: Hi, I'm so-and-so.
Them: First time to Indonesia?
Me: Yes.
Them: Have you been to Bali?
Me: No, but I want to go.

Yeah, so I have had that conversation no less than 50 times since I have been here. Apparently, Bali is the place to go. Maybe I can make a weekend trip there next month...

Well, I have to get back to searching for teaching ideas. I love and miss you guys! "I love you, you love me ..." Grr!