tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28758710733441573682023-11-16T18:09:19.684+07:00Marsha-Go-RoundMarshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-26201358046352700522013-08-09T16:44:00.000+07:002013-08-09T17:02:40.548+07:00Been Missing... to USA!Hello again, people!<br />
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Wow, was that really the date when I last wrote in here? Too long ago! I’m so sorry for that. Last semester was out-of-your-mind crazy and I just got back from… yep, the United States of America!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/20130727_115159-Copy_zps89518481.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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I still almost can’t believe it myself. I have always dreamt to go to the Land of Dream but supposed I wouldn’t be able to go there anytime soon. At least, not until I get a scholarship for Master Degree or after I have worked and can afford the cost myself. But… the universe begged to differ. <br />
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Early in this year, a lecturer of mine emailed me and a number of other students. She told us that we were the selected few that had the chance to run for an opportunity to get a full-scholarship for a summer programme in the States. Study of US Institute (SUSI), to be exact. It is an intensive five-week course fully funded by the US Department of State. The programme consists of a number of focus areas, such as Religious Pluralism, Global Environment and New Media in Journalism. The one I applied for was the New Media in Journalism.<br />
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I didn’t dare to have too high a hope. I knew how competitive it would be. The embassy would only pick about 6-9 students from ALL OVER INDONESIA. And I just knew that the selection process did not stop at the US Embassy for Indonesia in Jakarta. It went across the ocean: to the home base – the officials of US Department of State in charge of the programme. <br />
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But then, one day in March, as I was just finishing up my mid-term exam, I got a text message from US Embassy for Indonesia in Jakarta asking me if they could call me right then. I was still clueless; I thought it would be about the US Embassy library membership that I signed up for a couple of weeks before. <br />
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Nope.<br />
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In that phenomenal call, they casually told me that I had been chosen as a grantee for the SUSI New Media in Journalism 2013 in Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana. <br />
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(insert frantic screaming here)<br />
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So, yeah! Thanks be to God, I was among the selected Indonesian participants that went to the US with Malaysian delegation last June-July.<br />
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On that note, I will take my leave for now. But, I’ll be back! Yep, you got that right. With more stories of my journey living the American dream. <br />
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I hope you had a great summer!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-19029327026033906582013-01-27T09:05:00.001+07:002013-06-28T11:25:24.937+07:00Debate: Religion, GPA and WorkHey there, I'm back! And no, sorry, with no Bangkok post this time O.o<br />
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It's been craaaazy, believe me! Working two jobs and preparing for your research proposal (yep, i'm walking down the aisle towards my final thesis as a Bachelor student!) AND being a scholarship recipient of Djarum Beasiswa Plus turned out to be quite a challenge in maintaining a regular blog! :p <br />
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However, I'm back with a not-so-usual feature: In My Opinion!<br />
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So today I'm gonna tell you about my latest academic debate with none other than Kecoakman. The theme is about discrimination (religion and GPA) in work. So, shall we?<br />
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<b>His question 1: Is it discriminating to not hire someone because of his/her religion?</b><br />
In my opinion, yes. It is discriminating to not hire someone with reason other than his/her capability. Sure, people might have personal preferences about things based on their own experiences, and religion might be one of the things there. But no, it still counts as a form of discrimination, because then people of certain group/religion will never have the equal opportunity for that position (unless they change their religion). <br />
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<b>His question 2: What if it is because of religion-related reasons that are also related to working performance? For example, I will not hire a Moslem because he/she will lose one hour or so every Friday for their Friday Prayer?</b><br />
Whenever someone is hired, they are asked to sign on their Contract of Work (CoW) as agreed with the company, usually represented by a Human Resources Department (HRD). In that CoW, rights and responsibilities of both parties will be arranged. <br />
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For example, <br />
Employee<br />
Responsibilities: work 50 hours and get 3 new customers per week for the fee<br />
Rights: get salary of IDR 2 million every month, 1 day leave every month<br />
<br />
Employer<br />
Responsibilities: pay the salary, make sure the working condition is appropriate<br />
Rights: get the job done by their employee<br />
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Now, it doesn't matter if the Moslem applicant take a 1-hour leave every Friday as long as he/she is able to meet his/her responsibilities as arranged in the CoW. It can be done with a good time management, maybe take an overtime when needed. If not, then his/her boss has the right to fire him/her, but not not-hiring them because of his/her religion.<br />
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<b>His question 3: What if I turn down an applicant who is a Christian, because I will need someone who can work full hour on Sunday as SPG in the mall and I am certain that he/she won't be able to do that since he/she will be going to church?</b><br />
Well, then, it is still discrimination. It is based on your assumption that if he/she is a Christian, then he/she won't be able to work on Sunday. The right thing to do is to put specific working hour and day in the requirement. For example, say, "willing to work full time on Sunday, from 08.00 - 21.00". (this is extreme, of course) <br />
Then if you should turn down a Christian applicant, it would not be based on her religion, but because he/she is not willing to work those hours. On the other hand, you can hire an applicant who is a Christian AND willing to move his/her church schedule to Saturday to work with you. Therefore, no one will be discriminated for his/her religion; every group of religion (or non-religion, that is) have the equal opportunity to get the job. <br />
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<b>His question 4: But what about GPA, then? Most job vacancies have specific requirement for minimum GPA, say 2.oo and above. Isn't it also based on the assumption that people with GPA less then 2.00 work with lower performance than those with ones above it? And what if those with GPA less then 2.00 is willing to <i>manage </i> - as you said with religion - their working style so that they can meet the working performance required?</b><br />
It is an assumption all right, but it is more of a standardized quality you look for in applicants. Everywhere around the world, GPA system works in more or less the same way, some with tougher standards than the others (say, Harvard or NTU or even national leading universities in Indonesia such as University of Indonesia and Parahyangan Catholic University) - which is why leading-universities' alumni get extra points in that when looking for job. Students must meet their responsibilities: turning in tasks and papers, finishing exams, taking up the required credits, making final thesis. <br />
Now, there are several possibilities why students come up with lesser GPA. It can be because of they are incapable of meeting those responsibilities (purely based on the intelligentsia level), or they don't put that much of an effort into their study (poor time management - more play than study, or they just don't like the major they're studying, or in short, their work ethics). <br />
With that in mind, it is just logical if a company put a minimum GPA requirement, because they are looking for the best to join their company. If you have 1,000 or so applicants, GPA requirement is one of the easiest way to sort them. When a HRD is faced with a choice between an applicant with 3.50 GPA and one with 1.90 GPA, it is logical if they go with the 3.50 GPA guy right?<br />
Say, you are looking to hire a new architect as your associate. You have two applicants from the same university. On one hand, is this amazing applicant with 3.90 GPA. It implies that this applicant was an amazing student, he/she was able to meet the standardized requirements in his/her university. You can bet that he/she really knows his/her field, he/she masters the skills needed as an architect. <br />
On the other hand, you have this one applicant with 1.90 GPA. What does that imply? Is this applicant incompetent as an architect? Or maybe he/she is competent, but was just too lazy back in college? Either way, it doesn't seem promising for your company. But you want to be sure, perhaps. So you ask for their portfolios during school.<br />
You take a look at the sketches made by the first applicant, all got As or Bs, because the composition is right, it makes sense, and yet is very creative. And then you take a look at the second applicant's sketches, all got Cs or Ds, because they are messy, some pillars just don't make sense, and they look like he/she just copied them from somewhere else - not creative at all. <br />
Isn't it clear who are you going to take with you into your precious company? How is the second applicant supposed to MANAGE his/her incapability? Learning by doing? That's not for work; that is supposed to be done at school, not at work. An employer would seek for those who are ready to use. <br />
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<b>His question 5: But exactly the same with religion! They are both based on assumptions. I think your argument is based on the willingness/capability. In the religion case, it depends on the applicant's willingness to re-arrange their prayer/church schedule. While in the GPA case, you say that the GPA is a proof for their capabilities. And it's true, for their college era. But what if they are willing to change? People can change in about 3 months if they really put hard work into it.</b><br />
But the company won't gamble on that, will they? They won't wait for another three months to see if their "sweet words" on changing are true and, shall they not be true, sack the person and go back to square one to seeking another. And God only knows how long it will take for someone to adjust his/her capability and work ethics to the level needed by the company. <br />
While on religion and prayer time, it is more exact. Either you are willing or not to move your Church schedule. Either you can keep up your work even though you lose one hour each week for Friday Prayer or not. And hence, religion should not be the reason for not hiring someone. <br />
Your GPA is the result of the choices you made in college. You know that GPA is one of the major requirements for work. And if you still chose to play around in college, resulting in poor GPA (because I believe, if you are accepted in the university, in that major, you actually have the capability - although it might not be as good as others', hence your "intelligentsia" won't lead you to flunk), you know what's coming for you. You know that companies might not want to hire you. <br />
But with religion, "if you choose to believe in a certain religion and really uphold your religion values, companies might not want to hire you because you will lose more time in upholding those values (e.g. pray, etc)" doesn't sound right, does it? <br />
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Up to this very second, the debate is not settled. :p I have a feeling it was because we began this debate not on the same basis, and I got too emotional to clarify that. I tried, but that - getting too emotional - is like my most profound weakness in debates, so yeah... lol Maybe we'll just agree to disagree, but... I hate it when there is no exact "who's right and who's wrong"! Although actually the thing might be exactly that there is no right and wrong in this! :p <br />
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And that's all that I can share with you. :D What's your opinion? <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-32882159638688217002012-12-29T13:34:00.000+07:002012-12-30T09:34:07.557+07:00It's So Bangkok! #1Hello there, lovely people!<br />
HAPPY CHRISTMAS! I'm so sorry for being missing for quite a long time, but... I wanna wish you all a blessed year ahead! How was your Christmas? Hope you had a very merry one! (;<br />
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And now, I'm back with the long awaited story..... yep. My Bangkok story. It's too long ago, I know! But nonetheless I'll still share the story with you since it occupies a very special place in my heart (': <br />
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As I mentioned <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/10/quick-update.html" target="_blank">before</a>, I went to BANGKOK, THAILAND to attend and be a part of the first ever Asia Pacific Model United Nations (APMUN) 2012. I was in Bangkok from 19-27 September 2012. This part one will consist of my story during APMUN from 19-24 September 2012! So... let's begin with part one, shall we?<br />
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<b>September 19th, 2012</b><br />
This is the day where we took off from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to <a href="http://www.suvarnabhumiairport.com/index_en.php" target="_blank">Suvarnabhumi Airport</a>, Bangkok, Thailand. As you might remember from my <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/03/singapore-baby.html" target="_blank">Singapore story</a>, I am a nervous flyer. However, somehow, I didn't feel so bad about this flight. :p I guess I already knew it was going to be an amazing trip worth of any flight! When we arrived, it was already night time in Bangkok. But still, I was amazed with the modernity of the airport. It was so big and felt so modern! One of my fave airport for sure. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/citylodge1_zps24e6c5fc.png" width="480" /><center><i>our first hotel and its surroundings, taken from Google Maps</center></i><br />
We rented two cabs to hit our first hotel, <a href="http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/city_lodge_sukhumvit_19_hotel.html target="_blank">City Lodge</a> located in Sukhumvit 19. Though exhausted, we could not put off exploring around the hotel! Especially cos we were pretty famished :p Thank God our hotel was located near a bunch of street snack stalls and Circle K.<br />
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<img src="http://www.thavornbeachvillage.com/phuket-travel/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/P1120349.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><i>pad thai stall, taken from <a href="http://www.thavornbeachvillage.com/phuket-travel/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/P1120349.jpg" target="blank">here</a></center></i><br />
So we had for ourselves hearty portions of pad-thai. It was, spicy yes, but so delicious! It consists of rice noodle, or <i>kwetiauw</i> as we call it in Indonesia, eggs, some greens, and (in some, including this one I ate) shrimps. This pad thai, like most foods in Thailand as we would find out later, was very cheap but so yummy.<br />
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<b>September 20th, 2012</b><br />
And before we knew it, the first day of conference of APMUN 2012 had arrived. From that day until a couple of days later, we spent our mornings getting ready for the conference. Yep, business attire and make-up were my most loyal companions for those days. <br />
On the first day, we had a registration session and Drop-In Rules of Procedure Training in the <a href="http://www.qsncc.co.th/" target="_blank">Queen Sirikit National Convention Center</a>, which would also be our venue for the conference. We made new friends instantly since everyone was so friendly! We had especially close relationship with the locals who also attended the conference. They positioned themselves automatically as the hosts (although they weren't part of the committee) and they did amazing jobs. Yeah, I personally think that this is something everyone can learn from. <br />
Later on, our new Thai friends helped our way to the United Nations (UN) Building for the Opening Ceremony. The opening ceremony itself was an AMAZING experience, I'm telling you. We met with so many different people from so many different countries: China, Italy, Russia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, USA, Australia, and many more!<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/60264_4060360480448_1770398135_n_zps4bc48111.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/545591_224100274385666_664561043_n_zps28026762.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/546207_223973787731648_215855034_n_zps92146622.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/76234_367630606651183_129463953_n_zps05a5636c.jpg" width="480" /><center><i>our new Thai friends and us: Marcella (IDN), Aor / O (TH), Natsha and Destin (IDN), Praewa / Prae (TH), Nuel (IDN), Wee / V (TH), Me!, Noon (TH). Btw, did you notice we were doing it ASEAN Style? :p</center></i><br />
And so after the opening ceremony, we had to go back to QSCC for the first session of the conference. This time, without our Thai friends. Omygod it was an unforgettable experience! It was raining, no cab would take us to the MRT station, and most tuk-tuk drivers couldn't understand English! But thank God we finally managed to get on a tuk-tuk to the MRT station. The tuk-tuk ride was so fun! We were laughing our asses off. :p <br />
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<b>September 21st-23rd, 2012</b><br />
My partner, Nuel, and I were in the General Assembly Third Conference, which mainly talks about social and humanitarian issues. In APMUN, our GA 3rd talked about child labors and Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) beyond 2015. It was extraordinary! I personally felt that I made notable improvements in this conference, compared to the one I had in Singapore. I managed to implement the advise from my previous chair in NTU MUN, Thomas, which was to 'push through' and deliver more because 'I had very good points', so yaay for me! :'D <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/30190972-01_big_zpsdc12a86b.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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The conference itself was different. In APMUN, we mainly had unmoderated caucuses instead of moderated ones. Therefore, our lobbying and negotiation capability were really put to the test! It was a great challenge for me, but thank God, with great cooperation with Nuel, we managed to make our voices more heard in the conference. We even became the sponsors of the draft resolutions. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/320391_226838137445213_1639679417_n_zps50b2a11b.jpg" width="480" /><center><i>Can you see me in the center? I was typing down the points coming <br />
from other delegates at that time. :p</i></center><br />
What also made this experience different from the previous ones I had was there were a plenary and a "crisis" in this one! Plenary is where all the committees were gathered, while "crisis" is a term for a sudden or impromptu issue delegates need to address in the middle of their regular conference. In APMUN 2012, our crisis was related to MDGs expiration. I was so grateful that I had the opportunity to speak at the podium, both during the plenary and the crisis!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/560419_367987856615458_1540931686_n_zps40fec443.jpg" width="480" /> <br />
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In the end, the GA 3rd bunch became really close. I personally became very close with some of them, such as Sun from China, Kaushik from India, Andhika from University of Indonesia, Liliana from Italy, and of course, Prae and Fang from Thailand. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/196480_4610103140029_937793756_n_zpsf3a57a4a.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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And as how it started, the conference came to a close before we knew it. We all had a closing ceremony to attend to, and... our proud delegation for our university managed to grab the award of Best Position Paper in GA 1st and Distinguished Delegation as a whole. Congrats to us!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/483080_2383223476054_1968873541_n_zps689dad7c.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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<b>September 24th, 2012</b><br />
But, wait! APMUN had not ended yet! On 24 night we would have a delegate dance party. However, since we had no more conference sessions, we were free to explore Bangkok and do what Indonesian people do best: SHOPPING! So we went to Pratunam and Platinum, two shopping spots which are very famous in Bangkok. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/534308_4060442362495_73398678_n_zps913e650b.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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Hmmm. Okay... we got lost. But we finally managed to arrive safely! Hoorraay! So we split into smaller groups and shopped all the way down. Mind you, Pratunam is some kind of a market which mainly sells VERY CHEAP clothings and souvenirs! Especially if you buy them in a large quantity (therefore it is best to shop in groups! :p). And if you are careful and persistent (like we were teehee), you can find very good stuffs with low price there! <br />
On the other hand, Platinum is a shopping mall. Certainly, the goods there are more pricey than in Pratunam. But it's a good place to do window shopping and cool down after being a crazy shopzilla in Pratunam (they are located opposite of each other). And yeah, some people prefer to shop in Platinum because of the comfort (like some of my friends). So, it's your call! <br />
After shopping, we rented two tuk-tuks to the station and went back to City Lodge by BTS.<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/228991_4621597347377_1385357210_n_zpscd07d9fb.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/391721_4621597947392_632836280_n_zps922e724d.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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When we arrived in Sukhumvit, there was still time before we had to get ready for the delegate dance party. So, some of my friends and I hit the Terminal 21, a very nice shopping mall near our hotel, to have dinner. This mall resembles Grand Indonesia in a way that they both have themes for each floor based on different countries around the world. However, I must say that I like Terminal 21 better than Grand Indonesia :p <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/terminal21_zps221aad87.png" width="480" /><center><i>Terminal 21, taken from Google Maps</center></i><br />
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After dinner, it was time to get ready for delegate dance party! Too bad though most of our delegation members were exhausted and opted out of the party. So, only Ayu, Natsha, Fandi and I would be going to the party at Sonic Club, which was said to be the hype club at the moment. <br />
And we didn't regret our choice at all! It was such a fun night. We got crazy, dancing non-stop from around 11pm until around 2.30 am (making our Head of Delegation worried back in the hotel! :p). I tasted some drinks my friends bought, such as margarita from Liliana; they were quite nice and surprisingly reasonably priced. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/578568_4281920139127_513993460_n_zpse3d77b46.jpg" width="480" /><center><i>Prae and her significant other, Noon and moi</center></i><br />
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So... yeah, all in all, APMUN 2012 had become an extraordinary experience that, I know, will always occupy a special place in my heart. (I even got teary-eyed writing about this!!!) I will never forget the lessons, the new experiences, the friendship, and the kindness I experienced during APMUN 2012. So, as my friend from India, Kaushik said, "The world is very small and we'll definitely meet again!! High hopes!!"<br />
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Until the second part! :*<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-62190629091756725862012-10-11T21:41:00.002+07:002012-10-12T00:07:22.337+07:00Quick Update!HELLO THERE, PRETTY PEOPLE! :D<br />
I know, I know. I made terrible sin: abandoning this blog for so long!! ): However, I'm back with lots and lots and lots of stories. I hope this will make up for the 'missing in action' part, because I was indeed missing not without any justifiable reason! :p <br />
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Okay, here's a quick update before many long posts ahead about my latest adventures! :D<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/429941_4599643914286_2009315209_n_zps506fa06e.jpg" width="480" /><br />
1. I am officially a <i><b>Beswan Djarum</i></b> batch 28 now! Meaning, I am an official scholarship recipient of <a href="http://www.djarumbeasiswaplus.org/" target="_blank">Djarum Beasiswa Plus</a>. Thank God!! :'D<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/060920122_zps9585c5be.jpg" width="480" /><br />
2. I was awarded 'Best Student of IR Batch 2010' at the 51st Dies Natalis of my faculty past couple weeks ago! It really was an honor :'D <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/269004_4610103420036_1496591903_n_zps06441c92.jpg" width="480" /><br />
3. I went to BANGKOK, THAILAND to attend and be a part of Asia Pacific Model United Nations (APMUN) 2012! The very first one, organized by UN ESCAP and AIT! OMYGOD IT WAS BEYOND WORDS!! I'll be posting lotsa stories on this one, that's a promise (; <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/320368_4845125332310_23863126_n_zps924ed814.jpg" width="480" /><br />
4. About two weeks ago, I and my friends from the IR Student Association 2012/13 had just been officially inaugurated (me as President of IREC)! :D Oh, and I am now having midterm exams (while I'm not feeling very well lately from exhaustion). So..... please bear with me if I shall be missing in action again O.o<br />
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Anyway, how are you guys doing?? Hope everything goes well in your life :D If not, don't worry it too shall pass (: Smell you later, pretty people, and oh, pleaseee wish me luck for my midterm exams! Smooches :* <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-71328123203250687412012-08-21T13:24:00.000+07:002012-08-21T13:24:00.083+07:00DIY Galaxy Tee!<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMAG0643-1-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMAG0640-1-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Hello there, people! Welcome to another DIY post of mine, a sub-feature of the Studio/Kitchen feature. :D<br />
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Lately, I've been stunned by the gorgeous galaxy print fashion often seen in Tumblr and fashion blogs. Unfortunately, here in Indonesia, there are still so few stores that have them. AND, if any, they're unreasonably pricey (for my pocket, at least :p).<br />
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That's why, my friend <a href="http://thequirkyobserver.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amanda</a> and I decided to make our own DIY Galaxy Tees! Well, tanks, to be exact. (; And we wanna share that with you!<br />
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We mainly got the instruction from <a href="http://wise-rabbit-says.blogspot.com/2011/09/galaxy-print-diy.html" target="_blank">Wise Rabbit Says</a>, but we added a few of our own touches here and there! (; We'll include our commentary on the process below. <br />
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First things first, here are the things that you'll need to make a DIY Galaxy Tee / Tank.<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMAG0632-1-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Supplies: a garment (I chose black for my first to-sell collection), bleach, water, spray bottle, acrylic paint, paintbrush or old toothbrush, hairdryer, some plastic bags, glove (optional, recommended if you have sensitive skin).<br />
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And now, let the process commence! :D<br />
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First mix up a bleach solution of 1 part bleach, 3 parts water and fill your spray bottle with it.<br />
<i>Commentary: We found out that this bleach/water ratio to be not quite effective on our garments, especially Amanda's. With that ratio, nothing really happens and the color change was minimum. So we changed it into about 5/2 bleach/water ratio. Different color and fabric might need different ratio, so don't be afraid to experiment. (;</i><br />
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Next lay out the T-shirt (with nothing around to avoid damage from bleach splatters). Place a plastic bag inside the T-shirt so the bleach doesn't seep through to the back of the garment (optional).<br />
<i>Commentary: We also laid a plastic bag that we had cut out into a bigger spread under our tanks, just to be safe if we do spill some bleach.</i><br />
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Then, start spraying! Start by spraying a little, use your hairdryer to make them dry faster and to see the pattern emerging. This helps you know where to spray next.<br />
<i>Commentary: By hairdrying them, you'll see what color appears out of the bleaching process like magic! Different color and fabric will have different color change. For instance, dark blue might produce pinkish color change, black to rusty brown (like Amanda's), and dark brown to red (like mine).</i> <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-2-1-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
To help create a galaxy effect, twist the fabric in the middle to form a swirl, spray more heavily in the middle to form the center, and use your hairdryer again!<br />
<i>Commentary: In our first process, we found out that our spray bottle didn't really work as expected. Instead of smooth spray, it only produced big blotches. To get around this, I just poured some bleach onto the middle instead of spraying and then used my fingers to help even them out, and Amanda just kept spraying more! (;</i><br />
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Continue spraying until you get the pattern you want, and use your hairdryer again. <br />
When it's dry, rinse the garment with lukewarm water (this step is different from the Wise Rabbit Says) to stop the bleaching process and prevent it to eat holes in your garment! Then let it dry again.<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMAG0641-1-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
For the final touch, Wise Rabbit Says instructed to 'use the paint brush to slowly drip and stronger bleach solution (1 part water,1 part bleach- you only need a tiny amount for this) to give the effect of individual brighter stars'.<br />
<i>Commentary: Instead of more bleach, we used white acrylic paint and old toothbrush. Amanda and I had different method for our final touch. Amanda grabbed some of the acrylic paint (mixed with a little water) with her old toothbrush and just flicked the toothbrush to create the 'star drops'. On the other hand, I, too, grabbed some of the acrylic paint with my toothbrush and dabbed it onto different spots of the fabric, sometimes slightly brushing it. These two different methods produced different results as seen above! (; So, whichever you prefer!</i> <br />
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And, TA-DAA! There you go, a brand new DIY Galaxy Tee / Tank of your own! <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/preordergalaxytanks.jpg" width="480" /><br />
The above picture shows the brown one and bluish black one, instead of the pure black I used along the post. We also wanna thank <a href="http://wise-rabbit-says.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wise Rabbit Says</a> big time for the tutorial. <br />
And for you, beautiful readers, hope you enjoy this DIY, cos we certainly did! (; Feel free to experiment with different color and fabric, and share the result or the difficulties you found with us! Hopefully we can help you get around the errors. (; Toodles! <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-44406629959815868102012-08-20T11:00:00.000+07:002012-08-20T11:00:01.500+07:00Evaluation?<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/o-matic3.jpg" width="480" /><br />
I'm often asked by my friends and acquaintances, "What makes your relationship last, still strong despite occasional problems?" In my answer, there are several things that I usually will mention. But in this post, I would share one particular thing among others that help me and my boyfriend maintain our relationship. <br />
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Yep, it is indeed <b>evaluation</b>!<br />
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I find it most useful to help us reflect back to the things we have done, what we love and what we dislike about those, and what can be done to improve them. So, what we normally do in evaluations? <br />
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First thing first: Evaluation session does <i>not</i> have to be formal, or clearly declared as "Evaluation Session". It can be carried out during your daily or nightly conversation with your loved one. However, there are a few things that, in my opinion, are needed to make this 'evaluation session' work as planned or as expected.<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/o-matic4.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<b>Number one.</b> Make sure that the <b>situation is right</b>. There is no use in doing evaluation when either party is not into it: sleepy, in a bad mood, distracted... If you push your partner into doing the evaluation without he/she really willing to, well, don't expect too much of the result. The common things you'll find out of that circumstance: he/she won't contribute much in identifying the problem and in the solution seeking, he/she will just say "Mmm? Yes.. No.. Whatever you want, darling." and blardi-blardi-blar. In the end? You will only get pissed at your partner hhas So what can you do? <b>Choose the good timing.</b> If there is no good timing, <b>create one</b>. For example, take your loved one to a tea parlor for a relaxed, and private, tea time. <br />
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<b>Number two.</b> Now that you are on the same page to start an evaluation session, that you both understand it is important, you can both <b>prepare yourselves</b> to enter the session. I did a mistake recently. I planned a surprise evaluation session with my boyfriend without proper heads-up. The result? Because he wasn't prepared, he didn't have enough time to remember exactly what we've been through per parts and to prioritize which to bring up. And because of that, I did most of the talking. Yeppp, my bad. :p You see, without meaning to be sexist, I find out that most men don't see the world as women do. Most women take everything personally, tend to overanalyze every detail, etc etc etc. Truth is, men don't! hhas So they need a lil bit of preparation to recall the things needed for an evaluation. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/o-matic5.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<b>Number three.</b> I will play it simple on this one. Just <b>be honest</b>, say what you feel and what you expect. <b>Sarcasm doesn't really help</b>, although I have to admit sometimes it's tempting to do so especially for us girls (tested and proven from girl talks with girl friends). :p <br />
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<b>Number four.</b> Be open-minded, not defensive. This is pretty basic, but pretty hard to put into practice. Hello honey, news flash? This is evaluation anyway! hhas Sure there will be revelations, some might be unexpected, and sure there will be someone getting evaluation. I had an experience on this just before our second anniversary. I had such high anticipation because I was about to reveal what I've been suppressing for God knows how long. Unfortunately, what I thought would be releasing, that I would finally get to express some suppressed fear and that he would understand, didn't turn out as expected. hhas <br />
You see, I don't know if it's just my boyfriend whose neocortex is so dominant, or most men are indeed like him as well, but my boyfriend loves to debate me! hhas And in our most recent evaluation, that made me perceive him as being defensive. He pointed out that it was ridiculous for me to think and to feel that way, because he's done this this this, he felt that that that. But like what I have stated over and over again, I was just expressing what I feel inside! hhas So notes to you, guys: we, girls, often think and feel some bad things, even if we know that's not right. Sometimes we just wanna share those thoughts and feelings with you, what trigger us to think/feel that way, and hope that you will at least understand our sensitivity about that particular issue. It doesn't necessarily mean blaming you guys or anything (or, at least I don't). (;<br />
So to girls: let's <b>maintain our tone</b>, prepare our speech so that we put what we mean right, and <b>never blame</b>. <br />
So to boys: just <b>accept</b> that girls can be irrational, <b>no need to be defensive</b>. Listen first, try to understand. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/o-matic1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<b>Number five.</b> Wait until your partner finish speaking. Hold the urge to debate. There is a reason why God gave us two ears and one mouth. (; So I'll repeat, to both parties: <b>Listen first, try to understand</b>.<br />
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<b>Number six.</b> And remember, this is an evaluation session, not a trial court. <b>Remember your objective.</b> Your objective is to find what needs to be maintained and what to improve, not to find who's to blame. <br />
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These 6 things are amongst many things that I consider pretty important to have in evaluation session. :D Of course, every couple might differ, but isn't it the best part of a relationship: to learn more and more every day about your other half and discover new things about your relationship? <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/o-matic2-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
With that said, I wish you and your other half all the very best! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-2052149519207601612012-07-30T17:10:00.000+07:002012-07-30T17:10:00.220+07:00Thrift to Look Pretty for LessI found out about thrifting since quite early, mostly from novels or movies. But, I really started thrifting when I was in high school. A 'flohmak market' was opened around my neighborhood, selling many secondhand and vintage stuffs. And I was instantly mesmerized. I love the process that resembles 'treasure hunting', I love the unexpected treasure I might find from a thrift stand, and I looove how the prices suit my low budget! :p Thrifting might be tricky, especially if you just start out. Therefore, let me share some tips that I've learned during my 'journey'! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/01-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
I found it useful to have (mental) note on what I want and need. That's because a thrift stand/shop is usually so full of clothes/accessories and it can be a lil overwhelming! You might end up with a handful of clothes (that you don't even want/need that bad) and they might eventually end up on the back of your closet, forgotten and unwanted! <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/02-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Don't just check the items you've got out! Before doing so, make sure you've looked through them again. Sort them into some categories (not too many, though), such as "Definitely", "Maybe", "Not really but I don't want anyone else to buy this", etc. And my suggestion is... buy the ones that you really love ONLY! Trust me, I <i>know</i>. :p<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/03-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Always think about your existing wardrobe: "What do I need to flatter them with?", or "Is there any piece that I can't wear yet because I still have nothing to pair it with?". This helps keeping your shopping list thin and sharp, and you won't spend too much money (because you will tend to, seeing how cheap they actually are individually!) :p There's nothing wrong with wanting to buy something really different (not to complement the existing one), but be wise on how to manage it. (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/04-2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Check, check, check! No matter how cheap they are, you don't wanna walk away from that shop/stand with defected items, right?? Just because you're super excited, it's not an excuse to not spare a lil time checking through the items! Better be sure than sorry, true?<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/05-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Now, being a hygiene-freak, the chance of getting other people's fungus, germs, etc kinda freaks me out. Therefore, I never ever ever EVER want to try the thrift items in store. To get around that problem, I usually go with either of these two options: first, wear them over the clothes I'm wearing, or second, I just position it align with my body to get a picture of the size. For tops, I see if it fits my shoulders from one end to another and my chest (by stretching it over), and for dresses and bottoms, my waistline. Plus, if I eventually DO buy them, I'll make sure I wash them all right. (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/06-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
If the thrift shop in question is an online shop, then to be surer of everything, don't be shy to ASK. Ask them: how many times it has been worn, the exact size, if there is any defect, etc. Why, you ask? Well, I won't deny that thrift items are cheap. But, that fact also makes us tend to overlook the importance of double-checking - which might make you end up with a pile of junks and a huge total amount of money that you've unconsciously wasted. (; <br />
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I hope this is helpful! It's a shame that there are still not so many decent thrift shops in Jakarta/Bandung, even less, Indonesia. But, that doesn't mean all hope is lost! Next time I'll be sharing about some places to find vintage and do thrifting, such as (online) shops, bazaars, and garage sales I've found along the way. Have fun thrifting! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-80759461367528826602012-07-29T16:31:00.000+07:002012-07-29T16:31:00.085+07:00Easy, Yummy Strawberry CheesecakeHi again, pretty people! :D Welcome back to another Recipe post. As I promised you in my previous <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/07/happy-20th-birthday-my-kecoakman.html" target="_blank">blog-post</a> (and some others through <a href="http://web.stagram.com/n/marshaimaniara/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/marshaimaniara" target="_blank">Twitter</a>), here's the recipe for the strawberry cheesecake I made for my boyfriend's birthday (which he and his family really loved, so it's guaranteed! :p). It's really easy, I promise you, but it turns out really yummy! My whole family also loves it as well (; <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMAG0563copy.jpg" width="480" /><br />
I first got the recipe from <a href="http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/4653/strawberry-cheesecake-in-4-easy-steps-" target="_blank">BBC Good Food</a>, and reading their title 'Strawberry Cheesecake in 4 easy steps', I was instantly sold! :p However, when they say "4 easy steps", they apparently mean "kind of un-detailed steps". That's why, as usual, I'll be adding my own commentary from my own practice as well! :D I happen to have made this recipe two times, the first one being a trial from which I learned a lot. :p <br />
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Let's begin!<br />
To make Amber Lee's french macarons with my twist of cookies-and-cream you'll need... <br />
250 gram digestive biscuits <i>(I used Marie Regal biscuits)</i><br />
100 gram butter , melted <i>(I used the unsalted one from Orchid)</i><br />
1 vanilla pod <i>(the same as 2 tsp of vanilla crystal/powder)</i><br />
600 gram soft cheese <i>(or cream cheese like I did)</i><br />
100 gram icing sugar<br />
284 ml pot double cream <i>(this one is not easy to find. I myself used topping ace from Vivo, and other recipes recommend to substitute it with whipping cream as well)</i><br />
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And for the topping, you'll need...<br />
400g punnet strawberries, halved and stoned<br />
25g icing sugar<br />
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The equipment you'll need...<br />
23cm loose-bottomed tin <i>(I used the 20cm one)</i>, baking parchment, plastic food bag, rolling pin, large bowl, dessert spoon, chopping board, kitchen knife, electric mixer, spatula, serving plate, blender or food processor, sieve<br />
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Now I'll give you the BBC Good Food's recipe below, paraphrased, accompanied with my commentary. (; (If you find any difficulty understanding the cooking term, check my post on them <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/06/baking-101-technique-glossary.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/C360_2012-07-24-20-57-42_orgcopy2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
1. <b>Make the base</b>: Butter and line a 23cm loose-bottomed tin with baking parchment. Put the biscuits in a plastic food bag and crush to crumbs using a rolling pin. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl, then pour over the melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely coated. Tip them into the prepared tin and press firmly down into the base to create an even layer. Chill in the fridge <i>(not freezer!)</i> for 1 hour to set firmly.<br />
<i>Commentary: For my second time, I chose to use a blender instead of rolling pin. It resulted in smoother and more even crumbs. BUT, you are recommended to do so gradually (not crushing all 250 gram of the biscuits at one time) - especially if your blender is as old as mine. It will create even smoother crumbs. Plus, for the chilling time, it is <b>at least</b> one hour, never less.</i><br />
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2. <b>Remove the vanilla seeds</b>: Slice the vanilla pod in half lengthways, leaving the tip intact, so that the two halves are still joined. Holding onto the tip of the pod, scrape out the seeds using the back of a kitchen knife.<br />
<i>Commentary: This step is only for you who use vanilla pod instead of crystallized / powder one.</i><br />
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3. <b>Make the filling</b>: Place the soft cheese, icing sugar and vanilla seeds in a bowl, then beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Tip in the cream and continue beating until the mixture is completely combined. Now spoon the cream mixture onto the biscuit base, working from the edges inwards and making sure that there are no air bubbles. Smooth the top of the cheesecake down with the back of a dessert spoon or spatula. Leave to set in the fridge overnight.<br />
<i>Commentary: My cream cheese came in the shape of blocks, and they're really hard to beat with mixer if they are just as they are. So, to help my faithful mixer, I chopped the cheese cream blocks into smaller cubes beforehand. This helps creating smoother mixture. (;</i><br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMAG0556copy2-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><i>Look at this bowl of fresh strawberries!</i></center><br />
4. <b>Un-moulding and topping</b>: Bring the cheesecake to room temperature, about 30 minutes before serving. To un-mould, place the base on top of a can, then gradually pull the sides of the tin down. Slip the cake onto a serving plate, removing the lining paper and base. Purée half the strawberries in a blender or food processor with 25g icing sugar and 1 tsp water, then sieve. Pile the remaining strawberries onto the cake, then pour over purée.<br />
<i>Commentary: Thank God my loose-bottomed tin came with a clasp that makes un-moulding easier! :D And remember, sieving the blended strawberries is important! My strawberry sauce got complimented because it was so silky smooth, without the unwanted sediment.</i><br />
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And that's all! It's ready to enjoy with loved ones. (; <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMAG0193-2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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So, how was it? Do you think you're gonna try it soon? Let me know how it turns out! (; Happy cooking! <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-43771275961095228552012-07-28T18:24:00.000+07:002012-07-28T18:24:00.867+07:00Bralette with Candy<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/1-Copy-2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/2-Copy-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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Hi again girls, welcome to another outfit post! :D Here I'm wearing a bralette from Clothinc's summer collection. I'm so thrilled with the bralette! It's the cutest, and it's also in polkadots - which is one of my most favorite patterns EVER. So yeah, I'm really happy with it. :D<br />
It's really comfortable to wear, but being a bralette, well it definitely shows off too much skin of mine! :p Hence, I paired it with Marsha-Go-Round baby blue cropped blazer (good news, it's for sale! you can grab it <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=301021659996686&set=a.203160336449486.41340.203156089783244&type=1&relevant_count=1" target="_blank">here</a> for only IDR 60k) and Tammy Tangs skinny pants, also in candy color which is pale pink. :D I'm really into pastel, candy colors! Can you tell? :p And if you wonder about the heels, they are from Paylesss - which are, despite the fact that they're pretty and comfortable to wear, pretty reasonable in price! Yeep, being a student of IR major, high heels are a major must-have. (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/3-Copy-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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For accessories, I chose the one and only piece I have from Fideleshop Gracie (I got it as a present for my achievement in college after I got 4.0 GPA four semesters in a row), "One Fine Day" charm bracelet. As for ring and necklace, I chose two pieces from Marsha-Go-Round's latest collection "Crazy for Accessories". They are the pretty "Flowers of Mint" ring (which is selling like hot cakes, grab it <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=298082093623976&set=a.298081163624069.60821.203156089783244&type=1&relevant_count=1" target="_blank">here</a>!) and "White Rabbit" necklace (I know, you can grab this one <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=298081680290684&set=a.298081163624069.60821.203156089783244&type=1&relevant_count=1" target="_blank">here</a>). <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/4-Copy-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.clothinc-shop.com" target="_blank">Clothinc</a> polkadot bralette ♥ <a href="http://www.facebook.com/marshagoround" target="_blank">Marsha-Go-Round</a> baby blue cropped blazer (for sale!) ♥ <br />
Tammy Tangs pale pink skinny pants ♥ <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Fideleshopgracie" target="_blank">Fideleshop Gracie</a> "One Fine Day" charm bracelet ♥ <br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=298082093623976&set=a.298081163624069.60821.203156089783244&type=1&relevant_count=1" target="_blank">Marsha-Go-Round</a> "Flowers of Mint" ring ♥ <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=298081680290684&set=a.298081163624069.60821.203156089783244&type=1&relevant_count=1" target="_blank">Marsha-Go-Round</a> "White Rabbit" necklace ♥ <br />
Payless black high heels </span></center><br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-27251357111700968822012-07-27T16:06:00.000+07:002012-07-27T16:06:53.557+07:00Happy 20th Birthday, My Kecoakman!Yesterday (July 26, 2012) was my boyfriend, Yoseph (a.k.a. Kecoakman)'s 20th birthday. And we were so grateful that for one more year, we could celebrate it together :D For his birthday, I made him a few things. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120726_220255.jpg" width="480" /><br />
The first one is, knowing his love of foods - particularly cheese and strawberry - the special strawberry cheesecake! I really made it from scratch, no instant anything whatsoever (yes, I'll be posting the recipe soon. I know, some people have requested it) (; This cake also came with a special box, which I doodled on myself to make it more personalized. <br />
I'm really happy that everyone loved it, especially Y. He couldn't stop eating, one slice after another! :p But his family protested that I kept making them gaining more and more weight whenever I come with foods :p <br />
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<br>The next thing I made him is.... an electronic greeting card! In the form of a stop-motion video. It was REAL crazy making it by myself, because there were simply so much to do to make a stop-motion video. You need to draw 'em, some need cutting, then arrange them per scene, take picture of every single scene, then compile it into a pretty video. But it was soooo worth it, because Y loved it most, even more than the cake! :p
<br>Here's a link to <a href="http://youtu.be/mKXYXnJQzjY" target="_blank">the better quality one</a>, but despite its better quality, unfortunately Youtube made the duration twice longer by automatically doubling the video O.o And hopefully I'll be posting a simple DIY tutorial for a stop-motion video soon as well (;
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120726_223027.jpg" width="480" />
<br>The last thing I made him is... the surprises. hhas The first surprise was with half of his family and some of the people in his parents' music school, and the second one was with his junior-high friends (they even managed to make an announcement through the mall's loudspeakers!). He was really happy to receive both surprises, especially the one with his old friends. It was priceless to see him smile and laugh; worth every penny, every effort, everything. :'D
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<br><img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120726_230411.jpg" width="480" />
<br>Indeed, unfortunately, the surprises weren't carried out too smoothly. It's either I am too bad a liar or my boyfriend is too smart a person, because he seemed to have guessed that I would give him surprises. -.-"
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<br>So yeah, that's basically everything about his special day! :D
<br>Will you be a darling and wish him a very happy birthday as well???
<br>Once again, HAPPY 20th BIRTHDAY, MY KECOAKMAN! :*
<br>Thanks for being born and <i>yosephizing</i> my life (':
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<br><img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />
<br />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-15539374830683251752012-07-23T15:58:00.000+07:002012-07-23T15:58:45.122+07:00MGR's Own "Crazy for Accessories!"Before, I posted "Crazy for Accessories" from another shop. But now, I proudly present you, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/marshagoround" target="_blank">Marsha-Go-Round</a>'s very own collection of all brand new and ready accessories: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.298081163624069.60821.203156089783244&type=1" target="_blank"><b>Crazy for Accessories</b></a>! :D<br />
Here are some of our most recommended pieces: <br />
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<img src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/524081_298081210290731_1410949793_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/s720x720/558411_298081420290710_181852880_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/376861_298081630290689_1707383296_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/s720x720/562831_298081680290684_914175845_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/s720x720/252678_298081733624012_420432153_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/487380_298081800290672_2088450857_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/555658_298081876957331_377710370_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/541366_298082000290652_62418391_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/311645_298082093623976_1806912373_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/556438_298082133623972_582734983_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/179183_298082223623963_2031921621_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/406310_298082326957286_1338209987_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/s720x720/547670_298082390290613_1282908366_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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I guarantee, they are all gorgeous and very affordable! Truly pretty for less, no? :p Remember to check 'em <a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.298081163624069.60821.203156089783244&type=1" target="_blank">here</a> (; Happy shopping!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-51839999658437724102012-07-19T13:11:00.000+07:002012-07-23T15:42:40.145+07:00Crazy for Accessories!I have this favorite online shop (<a href="http://www.facebook.com/Fideleshopgracie" target="_blank">Fideleshop Gracie</a>) that mainly sells accessories such as necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings. And I gotta tell you, they're super cute! The price is quite reasonable as well. However, I only have <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=173293479455753&set=a.173292046122563.35578.100003253065451&type=3" target="_blank">one piece of their bracelets</a> :p Let me show you my Wish List from their collections...<br />
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My favorite necklaces:<br />
<img src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/425972_174603702658064_90386116_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/383414_192596477525453_1032283024_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
I really do love how that lovely <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=174603702658064&set=a.173292046122563.35578.100003253065451&type=3" target="_blank">Cafe de Paris</a> necklace will always make me feel like I'm in a cute patisserie in Paris. And that beautiful <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=192596477525453&set=a.173292046122563.35578.100003253065451&type=3" target="_blank">Prongs</a> necklace! I hope I can buy a pair of them, one for me and one for <a href="" target="_blank">Amanda</a>, my girl who also happens to be as hardcore a Potterhead as <i>moi</i>. <br />
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And the gorgeous rings...<br />
<img src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/575381_239679499483817_937008150_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/544788_223805474404553_2269546_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/535806_185168738268227_329355514_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
The <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=185168738268227&set=a.109217589196676.9829.100003253065451&type=3" target="_blank">Bride's Flower</a> ring is pretty! I've always loved pastel, and that shade of mint makes me feel all vintage beauty. And both the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=239679499483817&set=a.173292046122563.35578.100003253065451&type=3" target="_blank">Athena's Ring</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=223805474404553&set=a.173292046122563.35578.100003253065451&type=3" target="_blank">Vintage Leaf</a> ring really satisfy my thirst of vintage! <br />
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And now the bracelet! *puppy-eyed*<br />
<img src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/524544_179690525482715_471133881_n.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Where do I begin to even describe how head-over-heels I am about this <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=179690525482715&set=a.173292046122563.35578.100003253065451&type=3" target="_blank">Vogue Charm</a> bracelet?? I've always been huge fan of charm bracelet, and this one is so pretty!<br />
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Omygod, please please please, Universe, please send these cuties into my jewelry box (which is made from old body butter pot) now!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-79514994823005367562012-07-18T17:59:00.000+07:002012-07-18T17:59:00.593+07:00My GirlHave... you met Anna Chlumsky? *Barney Stinson style* :D She played in a family movie back in 1994, My Girl 2 - which was just aired a few days ago on one of the national TV stations. And to my surprise, besides the interesting storyline, the main character - a little girl played by Anna Chlumsky - was exceptionally well-dressed! :p Here are some images I managed to find around the internet. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/290106_large.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/My_Girl_2_27239_Medium.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-3-2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-1-9.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/171919_galeria_my_girl2_az_elso_igazi_kaland_10.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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Ahh, I really want that floral skirt and the white top with blue flowers embroidered on it... What about you? Found a new fashion muse lately? (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-35172237131768843812012-07-17T09:50:00.000+07:002012-07-17T09:53:54.137+07:00Weekend in Instagram<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120714_174018.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120714_173012.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120714_1508583.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120714_144410.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_20120715_105717.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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It started out as a lazy weekend, curling up in our bed refusing to leave the warmth and coziness of our blanket (by "our" I mean "my and my dog, Dipsy's"). But in the end, we've got to... cos it was gonna be an awesome weekend! :D My mom and I drove to Uncle Hari's home in Depok to celebrate the return of his family to Indonesia (his wife is an Indonesian diplomat who had been working in Stockholm for the last four years, and she brought along all their four kids). And I was really thrilled because the three musketeers were finally reunited once more! (; The three musketeers consist of my cousin Endi (Uncle Hari's oldest son), Ben (Aunt Meithy's youngest son) and me! Everyone in the family always say that we took the closeness after our parents. :p And since we were all in the atmosphere of festivity, so we popped a bottle of champagne! It was a great day indeed. And the next day, I helped out Mom at her workplace. (: How was your weekend?<br />
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PS. I fancy that bookshelf at my Uncle's home! Cute, isn't it? And what about that big W (for Wirawan family) as a focal point? Adorable!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-5089558721123409412012-07-14T17:54:00.000+07:002012-07-23T15:41:09.531+07:00Little Red Dress<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-1-12.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-2-9.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-3-6.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-4-4.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/jcshop" target="_blank">Lowe Closet</a> polkadot red dress ♥ Thrifted outer (only IDR 40k!) ♥ Unbranded lace shorts (from Bugis Street, Singapore) ♥ Unbranded pearl charm bracelet ♥ Carrefour white socks ♥ Mic's flat shoes ♥ Fion young navy bag (my mom's).</span></center><br />
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One of the simplest ways to make an outfit look more attractive is by layering it! Do you agree? And that's also perfect to make an outfit look less revealing, especially here in Indonesia (; I wore this look to go hang out with my friends in Cihampelas Walk back in Bandung. On a side note, I wore the little red dress in a fun photoshoot with my girls, <a href="http://thequirkyobserver.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amanda</a> and Jhe Ow. I'll share some of them pictures with you guys real soon! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-8303105490273776522012-07-11T14:00:00.000+07:002012-07-11T14:00:15.958+07:00Hot Summer!The weather's been really hot and sticky lately. And it makes me thinking of beach, convertibles, head scarfs, summer dresses, (girl) friends, lover, and all 50's vintage beauty. <br />
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<img src="http://file.vintageadbrowser.com/aw7fj8q60a30yi.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://file.vintageadbrowser.com/l-jmmtay5wfzyjzk.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://file.vintageadbrowser.com/l-apuce0cyrdld7p.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://file.vintageadbrowser.com/3wbhtvpzo18zsg.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://file.vintageadbrowser.com/l-pzjxskil9rijj5.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://file.vintageadbrowser.com/9ivkcfqzj36cxb.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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<center><a href="http://www.vintageadbrowser.com/clothes-ads-1950s/2" target="_blank">one</a> ♥ <a href="http://www.vintageadbrowser.com/clothes-ads-1950s/2" target="_blank">two</a> ♥ <a href="http://www.vintageadbrowser.com/clothes-ads-1950s/4" target="_blank">three</a> ♥ <a href="http://www.vintageadbrowser.com/clothes-ads-1950s/6" target="_blank">four</a> ♥ <a href="http://www.vintageadbrowser.com/clothes-ads-1950s" target="_blank">five</a> ♥ <a href="http://www.vintageadbrowser.com/cars-ads-1950s/5" target="_blank">six</a></center><br />
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There's just something about vintage ads, isn't there? Those matching couple swimsuits are just too cute, aren't they? And what about those three girls laying on the sand? They're so pretty and well dressed I can't stop looking at them! <br />
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What do you think of when the weather is so hot? (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-9974247707419399822012-07-10T18:11:00.000+07:002012-07-11T13:35:52.730+07:00Cookies and Cream Macarons RecipeWelcome again, people, to yet another <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2875871073344157368" target="_blank">Recipe</a> post! Here's another recipe for you, die-hard lover of anything cookies-and-cream! :D<br />
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Lately, about anywhere, macaron has been one among the yummy treats most in demand. I recently learned a recipe of Raspberry French Macaron from Amber Lee <a href="http://www.giverslog.com/?p=1089" target="_blank">here</a>, but instead, I gave it a twist. A cookies-and-cream twist, to be exact! (; <br />
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Macaron happens to be a yummy treat which has great chance of failure to make. However, thanks to Amber Lee, whose recipe is so detail, complete with her own commentary, I managed to bake my first own batch of macarons almost perfectly! :p I will also add my own commentary from my experience baking them! (;<br />
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To make Amber Lee's french macarons with my twist of cookies-and-cream you'll need... <br />
<img src="" width="480" /><br />
1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 4.5 oz (= 128 g ~ 130 g)<br />
3/4 cup almond flour, 2.5 oz. (= 71 g ~ 70 g)<br />
2 large egg whites, room temperature (no farm fresh eggs! older eggs hold air better, and take them from the fridge the day before or the morning of and let them sit there happily on the counter and warm to room temp)<br />
Pinch of cream of tartar<br />
1/4 cup superfine sugar/baker's sugar, 1.5 oz. (= 43 g ~ 40 g)<br />
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For Amber Lee's raspberry macarons, you'll need 3/4 cup seedless raspberry jam for filling. But if you want my cookies-and-cream macarons, you'll need 20 g of finely crushed Oreo, and I used cookies-and-cream ice cream from Wall's for filling. (;<br />
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Now I'll give you Amber Lee's recipe below, paraphrased, accompanied with my twist and commentary. (; (If you find any difficulty understanding the cooking term, check my post on them <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/06/baking-101-technique-glossary.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)<br />
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<img src="" width="480" /><br />
1. Pulse confectioners’ sugar, almond flour, and the finely crushed Oreo in a food processor until combined. Sift mixture 2 times. (Amber found sifting with her usual flour sifter near impossible. Instead she sifted with a simple bowl-shaped sieve.)<br />
<i>Commentary: Since I don't have food processor, I used blender instead with low speed. It worked. (; I too sifted the mixture with bowl-shaped sieve, which is a sieve my mom always uses to dry boiled pasta.</i><br />
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2. Whisk whites with a mixer on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar, and whisk until soft peaks form. Reduce speed to low, then add superfine sugar. Increase speed to high, and whisk until stiff peaks form, for me it took only 3 to 4 minutes, take care not to over-whip. (Towards the end of whipping the whites, Amber added food coloring - because hers were raspberry, so she added pink food coloring. But, mine is cookies-and-cream, and the Oreo in the mixture number 1 will already give the needed coloring.)<br />
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<img src="http://www.giverslog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/stiff-peaks.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">image source: <a href="http://www.giverslog.com/?p=1089" target="_blank">Giver'slog</a></i></span></center><br />
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3. Sift flour mixture over whites, and fold until mixture is smooth and shiny. The amount of folding is crucial. For Amber, about 65 folds was just right. When spooned into the pastry bag, the perfect batter started to just ooze out of the tip once the bag was full. If it stayed stiff inside the bag it was too stiff, if it dripped out too fast the batter was too runny.<br />
<i>Commentary: For me, 65 folds wasn't enough, so I went with about 70 folds instead.</i><br />
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<img src="http://www.giverslog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/macaroon-batter.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">image source: <a href="http://www.giverslog.com/?p=1089" target="_blank">Giver'slog</a></i></span></center><br />
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4. Transfer batter to a pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch plain round tip.<br />
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5. Pipe 3/4-inch rounds 1 inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Put the tip right in the middle of where you want each macaron and let the batter billow up around it, then drag the tip to the side of the round. (You can pipe 1-inch to 2-inch rounds, but you will need to add cooking time). Tap bottom of each sheet on work surface to release trapped air. Let stand at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes (until the caps look more dull and have formed a slight skin, so that during baking the macaron could puff up beneath that skin and form that pretty “foot” at the bottom.) While they’re resting, preheat oven to 375 degrees (190 degrees in Celcius).<br />
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6. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees (about 160 degrees in Celcius). Bake 1 sheet at a time, rotating halfway through, until macarons are crisp and firm, about 10 minutes. After each batch, increase oven temperature to 375 degrees, heat for 5 minutes, then reduce to 325 degrees. Every oven is different, so you may need to play with your oven temperature. The tops of the macaron shells should not brown.<br />
<i>Commentary: For me and my old oven, 10 minutes wasn't enough to bake the macarons perfectly, they came up still kinda wet. So instead, I went with 15-20 minutes. I changed the temperature as well. Preheat in 210 degrees (in Celcius), bake in 190 degrees (in Celcius).</i><br />
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<img src="http://www.giverslog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/macarons2-430x286.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">image source: <a href="http://www.giverslog.com/?p=1089" target="_blank">Giver'slog</a></i></span></center><br />
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7. Let macarons cool on sheets for 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. <br />
<i>Commentary: If macarons stick, pour a little water underneath parchment on hot sheet until the parchment is slightly wet (but not the macarons). It will help soften the parchment and make it easier for the macarons to unstick.</i><br />
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<b>Servings</b><br />
For Amber's: Sandwich 2 same-size macarons with 1 teaspoon jam. Serve immediately, or stack between layers of parchment, wrap in plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months. It takes only 30 minutes out of the freezer for macarons to be ready to serve.<br />
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For mine: Cool the macarons down in the fridge. When cool enough, sandwich 2 same-size macarons with 1 tsp cookies-and-cream ice cream, serve cold. For savings, put the plain macarons on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, put inside the fridge. <br />
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Here's how Amber's perfect macarons (with feet) look like:<br />
<img src="http://www.giverslog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/macarons.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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And here's mine (with no feet yet, huhuu - but still delicious):<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/0706201222.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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Thanks, <a href="http://www.giverslog.com/" target="_blank">Amber Lee</a> for the recipe! :D And for you readers, happy baking! Let me know the different fillings and flavors you come up with, or any error/difficulty you find along the way. (; Enjoy!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-38679334030385030492012-07-08T19:07:00.000+07:002012-07-08T19:07:00.081+07:00Deconstructed!Hello there, lovely readers! :D Welcome to the first post of one of my new features: Deconstructed! <br />
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"Deconstructed!" is a sub-feature of one of my main features, "Pretty for Less". For each post under this label, I will pick one celebrity/model/public figure/blogger's look, and try to re-create the look with similar, but cheaper, stuffs! Pretty useful for those with limited amount of money, or those who prefer to save than to spend their money, eh? (;<br />
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For this first "Deconstructed!" post, I have picked one of my biggest fashion inspiration, and she is... indeed, the one and only Zooey Deschanel! :D The look that I will try to re-create comes from her most well-known movie, 500 Days of Summer. Here it is!<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/o-maticcopy-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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In this look, Zooey looks more laid back yet still sweet. This is something that I would wear when I take a train to travel across border in Europe: still sweet, yet very comfortable. On the side note, one of the most important ingredient in recreating her look is: something blue. Yep, because blue is her favorite color, and you'll see it pop up here and there in most of her looks.<br />
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So... did I successfully recreate Zooey's "on the train" look? Well, it's yours to judge!(; <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-2-6.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-3-3.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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And that's how the whole outfit looks like. (; What do you guys think??? Quite comfy to go play around with friends, right? And here's some Pixlr images I took.<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/1-3.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/2-2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/3-2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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Anyhoo, for your information, one of my tricks to dress up for less is to reap advantage at a sale. Both the blouse and the shorts came from two great sales, one of them is even 50% off! (; Soon I will post the tips and tricks for getting stuffs from (great) sales. But until then, toodles! :*<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/4-2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cache Cache flower embroidered top ♥ <a href="http://www.facebook.com/leivy.onlineshop">Leivy Couture</a> polkadot high-waisted shorts (from a bazaar) ♥ <br />
Les Femmes black stockings ♥ Mic's flat shoes ♥ <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BabyLolitaShop">Baby Lolita</a> bag (gift).</span></center><br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-75528157778484581812012-07-07T21:30:00.000+07:002012-07-08T09:51:45.803+07:00Coming HomeI just can't believe it's been a year already (': <br />
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<iframe width="480" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/DKXuOj9d5o8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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I raise my glass and my hat, for all of us who have stuck with Harry until the very end. On this very day one year ago, we shed tears together. Today, the most loyal of us still do. July 7th, 2011 might be the end of a generation to some people. But not us. Because for us, the magic lives on. And I sure will pass on this story to my future kids. And even when that day comes...<br />
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<blockquote>"Whether you come back by page or by the big screen, Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home." ♥</blockquote>Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-15394149452152776532012-07-07T11:00:00.000+07:002012-07-07T11:00:06.141+07:00Reunion!<blockquote class="tr_bq">And because of the reunion I think we've got more energy and enthusiasm than we've ever had. </blockquote><div style="text-align: right;">Glenn Tipton</div><br />
One day in mid June, I had a reunion with some of my junior high and high school close friends. It was fun! There's nothing like a good reunion, is there? It really recharged me with energy and enthusiasm! <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-7.jpg" width="480" /><br />
I happened to have two small reunions on that same day. The first one was with my homegirl <a href="http://thequirkyobserver.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amanda</a>, Adel, Nana, and Ita. We had a bite at <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/panciouspancake" target="_blank">Pancious Pancake House</a> in <a href="http://www.malserpong.com/" target="_blank">Summarecon Mall Serpong</a> - which is a very fancy restaurant with pancake and pasta as their specialty. But, being all cheapskates, we refused to pay the ridiculous prices, and thus shared only one portion of their cheapest pancake among the four of us (Nana didn't like pancake), and shared one glass of milkshake per two people. On a side note, their Cookies-and-Cream Milkshake is to die for! A definite must-try (;<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-5-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-4-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
It was fun nonetheless! hhas We shared a good laugh and caught up with what's goin' on with each other. And then we moved to one of my favorite spots, Ojiya Serenity Pond (still in Summarecon Mall Serpong). It is a wood-plank-floored terrace, stuffed with a few poolside tables surrounded by cozy woven sofas, with a koi pond in the middle and plants around the terrace. It's so relaxing and cozy! And the good news is, you don't need to buy any food to enjoy the place. However, if you'd like some bites to accompany you relaxing, there are a number of restaurants and coffee shops surrounding the spot, such as Kenny Roger's and <a href="http://www.excelso-coffee.com/" target="_blank">Excelso</a>. (:<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-6.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Then, it's time for another group meeting! My brother (not in blood, but in hearts :p), Gavin, picked me up, accompanied with Komang, Jessi, and Caesa. Then we all went to <a href="http://www.livingworld.co.id/" target="_blank">Living World Alam Sutera</a>. We watched Madagascar 3 - which was so funny! And had another bite in <a href="http://www.bakmigm.com/" target="_blank">Bakmie Gajah Mada</a> - if you've never tried, you need to, I tell you! Their <i>Special Bakmie GM</i> (special noodle with chicken, mushroom, meatballs) and <i>Pangsit Goreng</i> (fried dumpling) are really yummy and so famous. (; <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-3-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
With them, I could never stop laughing! We kept making jokes, we both laughed at and with each other :p It was fun! <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-2-5.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-1-8.jpg" width="480" /><br />
How about you? When was the last time you had reunion with your old friends?? :D <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-30548831200111099752012-07-06T11:31:00.000+07:002013-03-08T00:51:07.923+07:00Pizza e BirraA while back ago, I celebrated my 2nd anniversary with my boyfriend. We had a great lunch date in this pretty place, called <b>Pizza e Birra</b>, which means "pizza and beer". I had been meaning to visit this restaurant since my pretty friend, <a href="http://angelinalydia.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lydia</a> recommended it to me. <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/opening1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
And... I fell in love instantly! I love how well-concepted this restaurant is. The interior is gorgeous; I especially love the beautiful-patterned floor, the brick wall, the wall hangings... wait, it's pretty much everything, right? :p Anyhoo, here are some glimpse of the interior of Pizza e Birra. You can choose to eat inside or outside.<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/interior1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/interior2.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/eksterior.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Furthermore, I really love how they pay attention to minor details! Yes, even small things such as wrappers and tissues! They've got this cute tissue with sayings printed on it, and a lovely retro-feeling wrapper for each set of cutlery.<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/detail.jpg" width="480" /><br />
In terms of menu, they offer quite a wide range of options. They have many different kinds of starters, salads, pizzas (they even have sweet pizza!), pasta, desserts, beverages, and even more fancy food such as Sea Bass served with Mediteranian Sauce!<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/menucopy.jpg" width="480" /><br />
For myself, I had Mama's Lasagna, which is a traditional style lasagna served with meat sauce, salami, boiled egg, and bechamel sauce. It was really, really great! Made me feel so full! For my beverage, I had French Earl Grey, which is black tea flavored with bergamot oil and flower. My boyfriend, on the other hand, picked Carbonara Dreams Calzone, with turkey bacon and egg creamy sauce for its stuffings. He said it was a real yum and he was pretty full, but it only lasted not for very long. (It was big in portion, but he said maybe it was because the calzone was pretty thin. I figure, for guys or even girls who prefer hearty portion, you might wanna choose something more solid than this one.) <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/foodlasagna.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/foodcalzone.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Honestly, it was pretty pricey for both of us. But, since it was an anniversary after all, we managed to save some money to have something special to eat on that special day! (; So, all in all, I really recommend you guys to pay Pizza e Birra a visit, especially if you're looking to spend some quality time and have some good food in a pretty place. (; Now, let's dig in!<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/digin.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<center><i><a href="http://www.ismaya.com/pizzaebirra/" target="_blank">Pizza e Birra</a> ♥ Paris van Java, Sukajadi, Bandung<br />
All pictures taken by Marsha</i></center><br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-50531378320402725032012-07-05T11:51:00.000+07:002012-07-05T18:15:31.198+07:00Two Years and Still Going StrongOn May 17, 2012, Kecoakman and I celebrated our two years together. (: It was a fun, intimate day together. Quoting Sex and the City 2, "You and me, just us two." <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/unwrappinggift.jpg" width="480" /><br />
To celebrate our 2nd anniversary, I intentionally baked my signature cookies-and-cream pudding (learn how to make it <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/07/cookies-and-cream-pudding-with-rum-vla.html" target="_blank">here</a>) in the shape of cockroach the day before, and surprised him on the morning with that pudding. We had a nice breakfast, gift exchange, and then we got ready for our big date. Before we headed out, I awarded him "The Best Boyfriend in the World"! (;<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-1-7.jpg" width="480" /><br />
We had a fun date in Paris van Java, one of the most well-known mall in Bandung, Indonesia. For lunch, we picked Pizza e Birra, which basically means Pizza and Beer (you can read the review on the place <a href="" target="_blank">here</a>). Afterwards, we watched The Avengers in Blitz Megaplex upstairs, then had a crazy Baskin-Robbins party (thanks to Kecoakman's mom for the freebies voucher)! (;<br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_43202.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_43212.jpg" width="480" /><br />
After all that we've been through, I have him to thank to. For all the joy and the pain we've shared, for growing together. With him, I've learned so many things - that before, seemed pretty impossible. I learned about having the courage to hope, to love, to open up, to let myself be seen weak. I learned to trust, to lean on, and to let myself to rely to someone other than me once in a while. I learned to let go of my ego, what it feels to not be the superior one or have control over everything - because he's one hell of a guy: he's smart, he's hard-working, he's determined... He challenges me. And I've been enjoying every second of it, of growing together. <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/IMG_43002.jpg" width="480" /><br />
So, thank you. Thank <i><b>you</i></b>. (': I love you. ♥<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-65202956708919959982012-07-02T11:30:00.000+07:002012-07-02T11:30:01.365+07:00Cookies and Cream Pudding with Rum Vla RecipeHello, folks! Welcome to the first post of <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/search/label/Recipe" target="_blank">Recipes</a>, a sub-feature of <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/search/label/Studio%2FKitchen" target="_blank">Studio/Kitchen</a> feature! :D<br />
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As a die-hard lover of anything cookies-and-cream, I challenged myself to create as many recipes with cookies and cream as possible! :p One oldest recipe of mine is Cookies-and-Cream Pudding with Rum Vla. I literally created it myself when I was in primary school (with the help of my mom)! :p It's an easy-to-make yummy treat! (If you find any difficulty understanding the cooking term, check my post on them <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/06/baking-101-technique-glossary.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)<br />
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To make this you'll need... <br />
<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-1-11.jpg" width="480" /><br />
For the pudding: 1 sachet of plain-flavored instant pudding powder (I always use Swallow Globe Brand), 120 g of white sugar, 1 tsp of corn flour (maizena), 900 ml of milk (I always use plain Ultra Milk), 1 pack of original Oreo, Rum (I usually use cooking rum). <br />
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For the vla: 1 egg yolk, 1 tbs of white sugar, a pinch of salt, 1 tsp of corn flour (maizena), 250 ml of milk.<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-2-8.jpg" width="480" /><br />
For the pudding: Mix the corn flour with a little bit of milk in a small bowl until there is no lump left. Mix pudding powder with sugar in a saucepan. Add about 1/3 amount of the milk in and stir them until relatively well-mixed. Start to cook it over low/medium heat on your stove, add the rest of milk into the saucepan slowly while still stirring it. Put in the dissolved corn flour. Keep stirring and let it simmer over low/medium heat. It will take about 15 minutes until it starts to be more thick. Turn off your stove, let the pudding cool down in the saucepan for 2-3 minutes. While waiting, crush all the Oreo (it's your call, whether you want it to be perfectly grounded, or still have big crunches left). Put the crushed Oreo into a glass pudding plate, spread it evenly. Pour in the liquid pudding. Let it cool down for about 15 minutes, then put it into the fridge. (Optional: before you put it into the fridge, once the surface starts to be more solid, stir the liquid pudding with the Oreo inside it. This will help the Oreo spread instead of being trapped just in the bottom of the pudding while the pudding becomes solid.)<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-3-5.jpg" width="480" /><br />
For the vla: Again, dissolve the corn flour in a separate bowl first. Mix the yolk, sugar, salt, milk in a small saucepan. Turn on the stove, stir the mixture over low/medium heat. Add in the dissolved corn flour. Keep stirring, until it becomes nicely thick. Pour it into a bowl, let cool down for 10-15 minutes, then put it into the fridge. When it's cool enough, add in the rum (I usually put in 1-2 tbs). NEVER put in the rum when it's still hot, or even warm. Mix it well. PS. For you who cannot have liquor such as rum, you can leave it out and still have a good vla! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/Untitled-4-3.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Serve it cold. Enjoy! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-37580942125354514202012-07-01T23:46:00.001+07:002012-07-01T23:46:32.274+07:00It's Here!It's almost the end of July 01, 2012 here in Indonesia! Meaning... it's time to reveal something new, something special about Marsha-Go-Round! :D I am proud to announce that Marsha-Go-Round has undergone (and is still undergoing) an expansion! (; It is intended to provide you with the best experience possible when exploring this site, and to maximize its potentials up to the uniqueness it holds as I mentioned <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/2012/01/im-just-your-average-jane.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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There are new features and sub-features for you to explore, wider options for you to choose from. The old tags have also been re-organized into several categories as sub-features - again, to ensure your best experience here! (; <br />
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This past couple of weeks, I've been preparing several posts that I will post on daily/bi-daily basis. So you'd better stay tuned! (; Now, let me introduce the features and sub-features first. <br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/01me-stories-1.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Yep, there's still my good ol' feature: <b>Me-Stories</b>. Here I'll share updates and snippets about my daily life, the big/trivial news, unforgettable moments, and the likes. (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/02myla-la-land.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Next, is a new feature: <b>My La-La-Land</b>. This is a feature dedicated to all the things that would exist in my la-la-land! (; The sub-features included here are <i>Vintage</i>, <i>Cravings and Obsessions</i>, <i>Baby Cam</i>, <i>Random</i>, <i>Lovelies</i>, and <i>Potterheads</i>. :D<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/03inspired.jpg" width="480" /><br />
The third feature is <b>Inspired</b>! Here I'll share things that would encourage an inspired life, whether it comes from me, amazing people around me, or public figures. So far, <i>Self-Empowering</i> is the only sub-feature included here. However, there's a new other sub-feature that is underway! Hopefully will be coming to you soon (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/04prettyforless.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Now, I'm pretty excited for this brand new feature: <b>Pretty for Less</b>! Under this feature, I will share about how I manage to be "pretty for less". (; Not just from me, but also from others around me. The sub-features included under this feature are <i>Outfit</i>, <i>Deconstructed</i>, <i>Shopping</i>, <i>Beauty</i>, <i>Fashion Muse</i>, and <i>Wish List</i>. Curious?? Wait and see! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/05placesandspaces.jpg" width="480" /><br />
The fifth feature is called <b>Places and Spaces</b>. You might already get a hint from the name already, but anyway, here's the spot where I'll be sharing about various places and spaces around the world. This world (pointing planet Earth), and my world. (; The followings are the sub-features of Places and Spaces: <i>Pretty Places</i>, <i>Favorite Spot</i>, <i>World Icons</i>, and <i>Lost In...</i>.<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/06relationship.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Now I have been sharing some about my relationship before, but why this new, specific feature <b>Relationship</b>? Well, it's because I found that quite many people like to hear my stories about my relationship with my boyfriend, and some even ask about how we can this and that. So, I thought, why not? (: The sub-features so far include <i>Milestones</i> and <i>Sharing</i>.<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/07studio-kitchen.jpg" width="480" /><br />
This is a kinda new-kinda old feature :p Yep, <b>Studio/Kitchen</b>! As you might as well have guessed, here I will share about <i>Recipe</i>, <i>Know How</i>, <i>Decor</i>, and <i>DIY</i> (Do-It-Yourself).<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/08inthelibrary.jpg" width="480" /><br />
Last but not least, another kinda new-kinda old feature: <b>In the Library</b>. Here I would share my more academic thoughts (:p) which include <i>Academic Tips</i>, <i>In My Opinion</i>, and <i>Zoomed In</i>. There is/are (some) new sub-feature(s) I'm preparing, but not sure how it'd turn out. Might as well just wait and see how it rolls! (;<br />
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And that's all! My (somewhat) brand new features and sub-features (; You might notice that I've been redecorating the pages such as <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/p/first-time-here-welcome.html" target="_blank">First Timer</a>, <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/p/about.html" target="_blank">Behind the Ride</a>, and <a href="http://marsha-go-round.blogspot.com/p/blog-features.html" target="_blank">Features</a> as well (though some only a little editing). So feel free to look around! (; In the meantime, some links to some features might not work yet because the first post under that tag is still in the waiting line. Don't worry! Check it out on daily/bi-daily basis and you will find if it's been updated! (;<br />
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I'll see you tomorrow! Happy Sunday ♥<br />
<i>PS. Are you watching Euro Final Match tonight?</i><br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875871073344157368.post-8015326586794466292012-06-27T13:54:00.000+07:002012-06-27T13:54:48.472+07:00Baking 101 - Technique GlossaryHello there, creative minds! :D Like I said, I have been preparing something really special for Marsha-Go-Round, and this post will be some kind of a sneak-peek to it!<br />
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Do you love cooking like I do, but still a rookie like I am? Do you have difficulty understanding the English cooking terms, especially cos you're not a native? You need not worry any longer! :D Knowing how frustrating it is to be so clueless (can you tell I'm speaking out of my own experience here? :p), I took special time to make this small glossary consisting of basic cooking/baking techniques! This will save your time spent Googling around to find out what I mean by them in my recipes (will be posted in upcoming weeks!). :D<br />
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Let's start, then!<br />
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<img src="http://www.country-taste.co.uk/Templates/business_sites/images/9107_sitepage_3339_image1_custom.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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<b>Beat</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> To beat means to rapidly stir a batter to incorporate the ingredients along with air.<br />
<b>Pronunciation:</b> beet (verb)<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Beat the egg yolks with the sugar until light and fluffy.<br />
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<b>Fold</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> Usually egg whites or whipped cream are folded into a heavier mixture, for a souffle, cake, or pie filling. The lighter mixture is placed on top of the heavier mixture, then the two are combined by passing a spatula down through the mixture, across the bottom, and up over the top. This process continues until the mixtures are combined. This traps air into bubbles in the product, allowing baked goods to rise.<br />
<b>Examples:</b> The stiffly beaten egg whites were carefully folded into the cheese sauce to make the souffle base.<br />
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<b>Knead</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> Bread dough is kneaded to distribute the yeast and develop gluten for an even texture. To knead, pick up the far edge of the dough and fold over the bottom edge. Press down with the heels of your hands, pushing the dough away from you. Turn the dough one quarter turn and repeat the process. When properly kneaded, bread dough will be smooth and satiny, stretchy and no longer sticky.<br />
<b>Pronunciation:</b> need<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth, springy and satiny.<br />
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<img src="http://iheartdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/baking.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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<b>Mise en Place</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> This phrase means having a place for everything and having everything organized before you begin cooking.<br />
<b>Pronunciation:</b> MEES on ploss<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Carol organized her kitchen according to the French mise en place.<br />
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<b>Parchment-Lined Baking Sheet</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> A baking sheet (a metal plate where batter is placed) lined/covered with baking parchment.<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Pipe 3/4-inch rounds 1 inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.<br />
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<b>Preheat</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> To heat (an oven) to a designated temperature before using for cooking.<br />
<b>Examples:</b> While they’re resting, preheat oven to 375 degrees (190 degrees in Celcius).<br />
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<b>Pulse</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> A method of mixing ingredients in a blender or mixer by using bursts of power in very short intervals.<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Pulse confectioners’ sugar and almond flour in a food processor until combined.<br />
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<b>Rotate Halfway Through</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> Some ovens might not heat evenly. To make it even, after the batter has spent half of the supposed time, rotate the baking sheet.<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Bake 1 sheet at a time for 10 minutes, rotating halfway through. (Bake for 5 minutes, rotate, bake again for 5 minutes.)<br />
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<img src="http://blog.interflora.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/Sifting-flout.jpg" width="480" /><br />
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<b>Sift</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> To put your dry ingredient through a flour sifter or fine sieve. (<i>menyaring/mengayak</i>)<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Sift mixture 2 times.<br />
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<b>Simmer</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> Simmer means to bring a liquid almost to a boil over low heat. Simmering liquid is characterized by small bubbles which rise slowly to the surface, usually breaking before they reach the surface.<br />
<b>Pronunciation:</b> SIMM er<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Simmer the pears in the liquid until tender.<br />
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<b>Stir</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> To use a spoon, whisk, or beater to move ingredients around in a circular motion. Stirring is a more gentle form of beating.<br />
<b>Also Known As:</b> Mix, blend<br />
<b>Examples:</b> Stir the muffin batter just until the dry ingredients are moistened.<br />
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<b>Whisk</b><br />
<b>Definition:</b> The process of using a whisk to blend ingredients together or to incorporate air into ingredients to increase their volume.<br />
<b>Also known as:</b> Whip <br />
<b>Examples:</b> Whisk whites with a mixer on medium speed until foamy.<br />
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<center><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Source:</b><a href="http://www.recipetips.com/glossary-term" target="_blank">Recipe Tips</a> ♥ <a href="http://busycooks.about.com/od/glossary/Glossary_Glossary_of_Food_Terms_Food_Dictionary.htm" target="_blank">Busy Cooks</a> ♥ My own definition</span></center><br />
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Hope you find this post helpful! (; Please do share this to your friends who love cooking but are confused with English cooking terms commonly found in online recipes. If you have any suggestion on what to add here, feel free to tell me in the comments! (;<br />
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<img src="http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/marshaimaniara32/withlovemarsha.jpg" width="480" />Marshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17941487928810754886noreply@blogger.com2