I admit it. This picture was taken a few years ago, but I think I still look vaguely like that. Depends on the day (and the time of day). And today, just before I uploaded this picture, an Indonesian English student told me how much she liked my nose. I heard that a lot in Indonesia. Apparently, a large nose like mine is a good …
Read the full story »Empty Streets of Kisaran on Independence Day
August 17 was Independence Day in Indonesia. I missed all the big celebrations and activities (through the usual miscommunication and misunderstandings), but I managed to go out for a walk around a market and a children’s park in Kisaran. My Internet connection is still far too slow to upload the full video. This is just a short 1-minute clip from the beginning of my walk.
How You Get to Your Rice Paddy in Indonesia
A friend of mine invited me to go with her on a trip to do some work at her rice paddies about 25 kilometers outside of Kisaran, Sumatra. She picked me up on her Honda motorcycle, and we set off. This is just a fun little set of video clips of some of the final moments of our trip.
Impromptu Dance in Kisaran, Sumatra
I met a lovely family while walking around Kisaran, Sumatra, and they invited me into their home for a drink and a snack. I learned that among the many accomplished children in the family, one was a professional dancer and he taught dance classes in their home. He offered to show me a traditional Indonesian dance, and I captured some of the performance with my …
Hordes of Students on the Streets of Kisaran
I had stored my bicycle and trailer at a friend’s house in Kisaran, and I took a walk there pick it up. His house was about 4 kilometers away, and brought my camera with me and shot some video clips along the way.
Transportation Contrast in Sumatra
This fancy motorcycle caught my eye while walking around Kisaran. Then I noticed the vehicles around it.
ATM Troubles in Kisaran
It’s a fact of the modern world that we end up on the other side of the planet with a computer standing between us and our money.
Students on the Streets in Kisaran
While walking around Kisaran, I happened to be passing some schools when the students were let out for lunch. Here is what I experienced.
Iced Sugar Cane Juice
Mobile drinks and snacks stands are everywhere in Indonesia. This one sells pure sugar cane juice by the cup or by the bag. It’s extremely refreshing (with lots of ice) on a typical hot Indonesian day.