Wednesday, 23 August 2006 @ 4:05pm.
Research:
I am in the process of planning my research trip to Yogyakarta (Central Java). Lining up interviews takes time and one never knows if they’ll actually happen, even after confirmations ahead of time. Since I will be gone next week, I may or may not get the chance to post news, but I’ll be sure to write after returning to Jakarta.
My focus groups are finished (yeah!), but I have yet to receive all of the transcripts. Once I get them, I’ll start organizing and processing the data.
I am now reading a book called “Write Your Dissertation in Fifteen Minutes a Day” by Joan Bolker. The book is mainly about the psychology behind getting a dissertation done and it has useful advice for graduate students. I recommend it. 
Random Personal Stuff:
* I did a crazy thing last night and entered myself into an indoor triathalon competition at my gym. It’s on Saturday, supposedly from 8am to 4pm, and will involve the treadmill, cross-trainer, and cycling. This being Indonesia or Jakarta or something else, I couldn’t find out the competition rules ahead of time. I will be told what’s what when I arrive. Hmmm… I wonder if it’s about fast times, endurance, or some combination of the two? I also asked if there were separate men and women’s contests, but again was told I would find out on Saturday. I was informed, though, that I didn’t have to finish if I got too tired AND not to worry because nothing would be a surprise. Okay… Good to know.
* I have been enjoying American cereal since last week. My family was nice enough to bring me some cereal since it’s cheaper in the States than here. It may sound silly, but there’s nothing quite like Frosted Mini-Wheats, even if it’s the generic brand!
* I’m learning more Indonesian slang. The linked site contains some sexual slang and swear words, so readers beware. My favorite words as of late are…
Banget means “very,” as in “bagus banget” (very good!). Its formal form is “sangat” or “amat.”
Gitu loh! is an exclamation phrase that is used for emphasis at the end of a sentence or it can mean “That’s it!” (e.g., “So what, gitu loh!”).
ABG (Anak Baru Gede) refers to teenagers between 12 and 17 years old. I’ve heard it in reference to kids who frequently hang out at malls.
