The Picnic Girl

Four Facts about The Zoo

2012-02-12T20:21:00.000+07:00

One

I love animals but I don't go to the zoo that often.

Maybe because in my perception, Indonesian zoo is somewhat dirty and smells weird and at the end of the day, I feel sorry to see those animals living inside small dirty cages :(

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Two

I'm addicted to animal-shape jewelries, my box looks almost like a sparkling mini zoo.

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Three

The zoo brings back my childhood memories of family trip and I love those sweet memories!

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Four

Now, I have a mini 'zoo' taking over my little art space in my shop. Yaaay!!

Come and visit us at Lir Space

Jl.Anggrek 1/33 Baciro

Yogyakarta

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Accessories by Ozhell and some random shops.

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

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Love,

The Perfect Birthday Weather

2012-01-31T02:41:00.012+07:00

We don’t ask to be eternal beings.

We only ask that things do not lose all their meaning.

(Antoine de Saint-Exupéry)

It was the sky.

I remember the sky look like fresh water with rippling clouds; deep and intense. I remember being carried away by the stream of wishes..listening to what my heart really wants, carefully..and followed where the path was taking me.

I remember the wind brings tranquility to every heart it has touched.

I remember being very careless, letting myself free from all the routines; trying to find the newness of daily life all over again..and succeed. I remember feeling like walking inside a bubble or warmth and serenity..and freedom. I found myself visiting the old sites I used to love when I was a kid..only to find myself still in love with all these places and the magic.

I remember being very inspired by the sky..the irresistibly clear blue sky.. and decided to re-read the books of great aviators with soul of a poet: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.. Roald Dahl.. Gavin Pretor-Pinney. There goes the first birthday resolution. I imagine them dancing upon the cloud, swimming through the deep blue sky, and word starts pouring out like the endless stream of sun flares seen from their flying goggles.

That day, I got a gorgeous weather as my birthday present.

It was perfect.

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Photographed by Kurniadi Widodo on my birthday

Thanks to Ben, Kate, Dito, Wid, and Yoga for accompanying me through the journey! ;)

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Love,

What a Pleasant Surprise!!

2012-01-23T17:23:00.002+07:00

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It was a bright windy morning at Lir with a pile of things to do and a new haircut when a pleasant surprise knocks on my door..

First, it was Diny.. so that day, Diny went to Lir and surprise me with this cute bunny wall sticker sticking behind me! She said it was an early birthday present and I've always wanted wall sticker so much!! (Yayyyy!!) I named my new bunny friend 'Lunapin' and she will sure become one of my favorite photo background! ;)

Diny is my little sister's friend who has now become my friend and feels so much like my own sister. She has been an angel with wide helping hand these few days and she has just launched her zine: SPARK. It's a must read for teenage girls out there.. she's kinda inspiring and cute! (Click here to read her blog and click here for her zine)

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And the days went by.. and my birthday is coming closer (it's tomorrow, by the way).. and another surprise knocks on my door!!

Mr.Postman delivered this package..

..from my favorite collage artist: Ika Vantiani!!

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One..

Two.. Three..

Four!!

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Four pretty collages I used to droll over whenever I browse her etsy page!! *fainted*

I was super speechless.. if you know how much I idolize this collage artist.. if you know how I also enjoy making collages and wish that one day I can learn making collage from her.. if you know how I waited and waited for a postcard that she promised to send once upon a time and end up finding this package!! My heart stops. I'm so excited I could burst! (And there is a super exciting plan we have in the short future..just wait!)

Check out Vantiani's blog here and her works here.

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No.. that's not all!

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Mbak Donna (Dito's sister in-law) surprises me with another pre-birthday package containing three quirky rings!! (and I loooove quirky rings I'll make a blogpost about it soon enough) One of the best part is.. mbak Donna gave me a teacup ring that looks just like my most beloved ring that lost its way home long long time ago. I love it so much I once made a blogpost about it (here). Aaaah.. thank you, mbaaak.. :D *kisses*

Oh..I'm such a lucky girl to be surrounded with such thoughtful people, aren't I? *sigh*

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Miy

Outfit by Raindrops on Roses

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

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Love,

Looking for..

2012-01-14T23:02:00.001+07:00

Lir Shop is hiring!

Apply here

We need you..

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Hugs,

Indonesia Circa 60s

2012-01-10T11:31:00.000+07:00

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An event that requires certain way of dressing or casually put up a dress code is always exciting. Sometime it feels like going to a costume party. Just like this one.. a theater performance with Indonesian vintage dress code~ me likey!! I feel like going back to the 60s.. Psst..it was my mom who gave me all the styling tips this time. Do I look convincing? ;)

P.S.: No, I'm still not a vintage-fashion blogger. Although I convincingly look like one (in this post). In 2012 I'll try being a bit more 'now'.. or at least, less vintage..if you know what I mean.. We'll see!

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Speaking of, what do you think of a costume party to celebrate my (or Picnic Girl's) upcoming birthday?

I'm looking forward to it!

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Miy

Bow Top / Little Garage

Apricot Long Skirt / Raindrops on Roses

Accessories / Random

Coin Pouch / handmade by my sister

Photographed by Hera Ariani (1), Dito Yuwono (2-5), and Octo Cornelius (6)

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Hugs,

A Love Story Told on Mother's Day

2012-01-08T22:41:00.002+07:00

(the tour bus)

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At first, my mom hesitated to go watching Papermoon Puppet Theater's performance that night. If it wasn't a Mother's Day celebration, she would prefer staying at home and miss this heartwarming performance. I’m glad she finally said yes.

Secangkir Kopi dari Playa* (A Cup of Coffee from Playa) is a site-specific puppet theater performance by Papermoon (I wrote about this theater once, here). The story was based on a true love story of Pak Wi** who got separated from his lover for over 40 years and spend his life waiting in vain, searching for the love of his life to fulfill his promise. It was such a coincidence that he shares the same nick name with my late father: "Pak Wi". That small fact must have meant a lot to my mom. :)

That afternoon, we park the car at Kedai Kebun Forum and wait for the tour leader to take us to the 'secret' place where the play would be performed. A cute bus named "Sari Buah" (literally translated as "Fruit Juice") took us from KKF to Jangkrik Antique Warehouse. An old school styled tour guide (performed by Wulang, one of my favorite young artist) cheer us up by giving explanations with a dash of dry jokes about some old building we pass along the way.. Some jokes were so dry, it turned out hilarious. Especially at the end of the tour, we simply can't stop laughing!

When the show begin, my mom and my sisters starts whispering to each other at certain parts, giggling, taken away by the story, and in some parts~ shed some sparkling tears. The story was heartbreaking but our story was a happy ending one. My mom was very happy (look at her smile at the end of this post!) and that's what really matters for me and my sisters.

Thank you, Papermoon..

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(Me and my sister, Mirla)

(Left: Me,my mom, my sisters Mirna and Mirla in the bus- Right: with mbak Ria Papermoon)

(Manda of Perempuan Gimbal, miy, and mb Ria of Kuwaci Kecil posing on the set)

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(with Dito next to the love bike)

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(with my friend Octo who acted as the polaroid photographer)

(with the mother of Papermoon herself)

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At the end of the show..

(My joyful mom hand-in-hand with my sisters)

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Photographed by Dito Yuwono, Octo Cornelius, and Hera Ariani

P.S.:

(*) More about Secangkir Kopi dari Playa>> click here

(**) The true (heartbreaking) love story of Pak Wi >> click here: (1), (2), (3), (4) >> please read.. it worth all the fuss in clicking those four links.. it might remind you that true love exist. ;)

(***) There's a new update at Lir's blog: a review and a preview! >> click here

Time is Transient

2012-01-05T10:12:00.003+07:00

Time is transient. We are eternal:

plucking seconds, one by one, arranging them like flowers

until one day we forgot what for.

"But time is transient,

is it not?" you ask.

We are eternal.

(Sapardi Djoko Damono)

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The year that has just passed left a trace of warmth and sweet smile lingering from within. It was a rich year, indeed.. new friends, key to many new doors, life that keeps on moving, journeys and adventures, and at the end of the year: a relationship rebounded. Funny how it seems like my 2011 starts on May, the birth of my baby Lir. To me, it was the year of dream comes true.

Entering the door of a new year feels like a fresh start, a warm sunbeams stitched in the heart guiding the way to every step forward.. new adventures to come, new journeys to make, experience the newness of everyday life, and we shall live the life completely.

But most importantly: surprise yourself!

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Happy New Year, Joyful Souls!

Miy

Dress / A Plus

Sweater / Little Garage

Belt / Day or Night

Shoes / Hers

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

Gatekeeper

2011-12-24T22:36:00.002+07:00

♪ ♫ ♪ Gatekeeper - Feist ♪ ♫ ♪

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This song has been loyally accompanied me through hours and days of roadtrips on my little Tea during 2005-2006. Somehow, the song keeps playing in my head again recently..especially on a bright sunshiny day like these past few days.

Maybe, it was because we're having a period of Indian Summer here in Jogja, which, as a matter of fact..is one of my favorite times of the year. You see, we're suppose to deal with the rainy day but, somehow, there are these brilliantly bright days as a break of those grey days. It's like a little surprise. We never know whether the day will turns out to be a rainy one or a bright one; and when the sun came up and the blue sky stretch as far as one can see, that's when the Gatekeeper decided to give us a little bonus; topped with marvelous sunset, cool breeze, and clear starry night, for sure.. :)

A mini update: I'm already back to my hometown right now (yaaay!!), spending the past few days renovating and making end-of-the-year analysis, documentation, and new year plan for my Lir Shop. I feel completely energized, occupied, and I love it. It's life to the fullest!

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Miy

Orange Dress / Raindrops on Roses

(the dress actually has one of the cutest rounded low-back, but we forgot to take the detail pic of it..oops)

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

(who took me on a spontaneous morning trip around Kotagede,where these photos were taken)

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Merry Christmas!!

Raindrops on Roses

2011-12-12T21:33:00.001+07:00

♪ ♫ ♪ My Favorite Thing-The Sound of Music ♪ ♫ ♪

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My dear youngest sister, Mirla, has just launched her new online boutique, Raindrops on Roses. Her choice of outfits are particularly sweet, casual, and proper for a girl her age (early 17s). She offers a wide selection of casual and daily outfit, sweet and flirty skirt or dresses, accessories, and just a dash of vintage finds. The best part is, although each one is unique, the price she offers is very pocket-money friendly (ranged between 15k to 75k rupiah only!).

Take a look at her lookbook below (the models are her dear friends, naturally) and pay a visit to her facebook shop here.

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{16 Going on 17}

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{She's a Darling!}

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{Tea with Bread and Jam}

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Photographed by Dito Yuwono

Talents: Echa and Amel

Stylist: Diny Putri of Fuschia and Viscaria

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Enjoy!

Well Preserved Moments

2011-12-10T08:02:00.004+07:00

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Finding a film in my Rollei black and white camera undeveloped for one year feels like having the chance to look into a time capsule. It was so exciting. By the time the film is developed, more shriek of excitement and nostalgia arise. One images to another brings me back to certain moment that almost forgotten, certain place in the past, and certain notes I took carelessly that I find worth remembering.

With all those little surprises, perhaps I'll be back to the mysterious world of film camera once again.

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"This camera, use it as a pen. Take notes with your eyes."

(as said to Bill Cunningham)

Photographed by Miy and Dito Yuwono

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Have a great day!

Huff Magazine #4: Dream

2011-12-08T01:44:00.004+07:00

Recently, I just released the latest edition of my magazine: Huff Magazine. It's rather special for me because, this time, it's my edition. By having 'my' edition means having the full control of deciding the content, choosing the contributors, and molding the magazine the way I like it. Yay!!

In this edition, I collected dreams from hundreds of people and made collage out of those dreams. Anna of Much Love, Anna sent beautifully melancholic photo series of an amusement park by the sea. Sundea of Salamatahari made a photo story about a trip to the ice 'dream' stall unce upon a night.

In the erudition section, Indie wrote a confession about being a newly wed~ to some, wedding is one of their dream. Keep on reading if you're one of these girls. Other than that, three ladies (a magazine store owner, a curator, a restauranteur) tell about their fabulous and out of ordinary jobs.

Take a peep to our favorite movie, shops, music event (written in A and B side by me and Risky Summerbee), and also an article of Ria Papermoon's toy collection.

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Read on this box below for more:

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Download it for free here

Like the page on Facebook here

Read on the website (www.huffmagazine.com)

Read the other self-published zine/booklet/magazine I made here

**Huff Magazine are**

Miy (editor in chief) | Dito Yuwono (photographer and editor) | and Bentar Sadani (graphic designer and art director)

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Enjoy!

The Other "I"

2011-12-06T00:26:00.002+07:00

"Life was a meaningless string of random incidents”
(Orhan Pamuk)

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A year ago, I took a spontaneous turn in my life; leaving my 9-to-5 job as a lifestyle writer in a media in Jakarta and decided to pursue my passion. I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do (except for my lifetime dream of having a bookstore and my excitement in art) but I know what I don't want to do (sitting in front of the wall-facing desk for 8 tormenting hours doing all the routine, hating the Mondays, and worshiping weekends..argh!). A day after resigned from that job, I celebrated it by visiting the neighboring city and let my boots (the same one I'm wearing in this post) lead me to any twist and random turn of the road.

That was a year before; and that's when I first visit Selasar Sunaryo Art Space only to find myself fell in love with the vibe, instantly. Right there and then, I knew I would someday work for this art space.

Now, I reside in Bandung from September to December; working for an art exhibition in this gallery and having fun as much as I can~ that means numerous visit to other galleries and art scenes, travelling back and forth from Bandung to Jakarta and Jogja every now and then, and the best part is: it feels like I am in a holiday where I can both have relaxing time and learning new things. Funny how a 10-to-5 job in this art space actually feels like a holiday compared to my 24-hours job as a business owner back in Jogja. And guess what, as much as I miss my busy-happy time in Lir, I enjoy both!

I am still more or less of an in-betweens in the art world, I graduated from marketing and business management; and art was 'only' my wonderland when I first jumped into the rabbit hole in 2008 by incident ~it still is right now. Well.. serendipity, incident, fate, or whatever it is..I'm enjoying the ride.

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“Everything is more complicated than you think. You only see a tenth of what is true. There are a million little strings attached to every choice you make; you can destroy your life every time you choose. But maybe you won't know for twenty years. And you'll never ever trace it to its source. And you only get one chance to play it out. Just try and figure out your own divorce. And they say there is no fate, but there is: it's what you create."

― Charlie Kaufman, Synecdoche, New York: The Shooting Script

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(This picture is Dito's favorite and that's the only reason why I put it up here.. lol!)

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Miy

Boots / Garage Shop

Legging and Belt / Random

Polkadots Oversize Shirt / Thrifted in Bandung

Pocket Watch and Bag / Thrifted in Singapore

All the pictures were taken in Selasar Sunaryo Art Space, Bandung; by Dito Yuwono

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Hugs,

Catching Up

2011-11-30T23:59:00.000+07:00

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After a gazillion years ago .. last week, Thika and I were finally have sometime to catch up. Quick, but intense. She brings baby K to visit my baby Lir. We took a quick photoshoot wearing sponsored outfits (hers- Dream shop, mine- Summer and Spring). All and all, it's so nice to finally meet her again.

I was all about Lir these months since there is a new opportunity knocking on my door, so I take two weeks leave from my job in Bandung to be back in Jogja for awhile. It's so relieving to finally see and get things done with my own hand.

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This December, we will serve better coffee and celebrate it with a coffee fiesta, we offer comfort foods during the cold rainy day, we will fulfill the book shelves with more curiosities and folklore+poetry books, we will have a cooking class, held a folklore festival, and also.. tadaaaa.. Huff #4 launching party is coming up this Sunday!

More about the events at Lir will be posted and updated via Twitter (@LIRshop), Facebook page (Lir Shop), and blog (lirshop.blogspot.com). Follow us for latest info! ;)

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Check out the original (color) version of this photoshoot at Thika's blog The Versicle, soon!

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Recently I joined a cute group art exhibition "Malu-Malu Kucing" and this is what I displayed there:

The Phoenix Transformation | 1m x 1m | Digital print, installation | 2010

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Miy

Dress / Summer and Spring

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

Once Upon a Gazillion Years ago

2011-11-24T01:33:00.002+07:00

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These photos were taken once upon a gazillion years ago. No, seriously.. it was long long time ago I couldn't even remember when did we took the photo exactly. (I know I can simply check the photo properties info but it won't make a good title..lol!)

All I know is that we were still so young, baby K hasn't seen the world, Lir hasn't born just yet, I still maintain a long black hair, and this photo were our second photoshoot of that day taken in my favorite Indian restaurant, Sangam. (The first photo session was taken on Garden Juice, here)

As some of you might already learn by now, Thika of The Versicle is my favorite Picnic Pal. We had another photo session last week (and the photos are coming up soon) and before, we had lot of photo session together I start consider having a post label for her :)) She's nice, pretty, and she start uploading outfit post again in her blog: www.theversicle.com *how excitiiing!*

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♪ ♫ ♪ Horchata- Vampire Weekend ♪ ♫ ♪

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Miy

Tight / Centro

Dress / A.k.k.u.

Accessories/ Random

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Photographed by Dito Yuwono / Edited by Miy using Picnik

(Dito gave me the freedom to edit these photos..which is unlikely, because he prefers natural photos.. fact is, I don't know how to edit photo either.. Thanks to Picnik.com the whole process become so much easier)

Hugs,

Off the Beaten Path: Picnic with the Picnic Girl

2011-11-20T13:49:00.003+07:00

First and foremost, please forgive the photos re-posting. I can explain. *grin*

(click here)

My new friend from Bandung just discovered my alter ego, The Picnic Girl, which make me a bit embarrassed but at the same time inspire me to make this photo re-posting.

In this post, you can find some of my favorite picnic destination in Jogja. Hopefully, one day when my Bandung friends pay me a visit to my hometown, I'll have the chance to take them on a picnic. Nope, I won't take them to the places where everyone goes that offers more human-crowd rather than a scenery to be seen.

It's a trip off the beaten path, darling!

Posted below is the tour preview..especially dedicated for my Bandung friends: mbak Tarlen, Dimas Ario and the Selasar Sunaryo team! Lets daydream with me and take a virtual journey before the actual trip begin!

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The Abandoned Little Houses on the Hill by the Sea

:: Welcome to the estate of heaven!::

Located only an hour away from the heart of the city, this place is my favorite hideaway where perfect tranquility delivered in such a breathtaking view.

(click here and here for more photos taken on this place)

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The 'Red' Hill

This place is actually a temple (buried underneath this 'hill') that offers 360 degree view around Jogja. Only 20 minutes away from the city (plus 10 minutes climbing). I love how we can see the major temples, the mountain, and the city at the same time. On top of it all, the sunset is gorgeous here!

(click here for more photos taken in this place)

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The Place where Sunbeams Choose to Fall

My 'secret garden' where most of my picture taken. Located in the slope of Mt.Merapi, 45 minutes away from the city. To me, it called 'home'. To the others, my 'secret garden' is located in one of the most popular recreational site called 'Kaliurang'. The batik museum, Ullen sentalu is neighboring and a complete privacy is guaranteed here.

(click here for more photos taken in my secret garden)

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The Little Alps

Located 1.5 hours away from the city, this place is surrounded by more or less 4 mountains that offers magnificent view and the freshest air. Click here and here for more photos.

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The Grey Forest

It is actually the remaining forest of the devastating Mt.Merapi eruption last year. The view was heartbreaking at the same time it offers hundreds of beautiful myth, folklore, and cultural beliefs. Only 10 minutes away, walking from my home (which means; 45minutes away from the city) this 'lava tour' supports the welfare of the victims of the eruption.

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The Nice-Weather-Day Trip

It's easy to find beautiful spot for a road trip between rice fields, a group of white cranes flying and nestling around, and expect a wonderful surprise at every turn. At the end, it's the journey that matters rather than the destination, right? Click here for more photos.

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To the Lighthouse!

Do not imagine a fishy smell lighthouse where all the sailor gather and sell fish fresh from the sea. Nope. The lighthouse is secluded and clean and only 30 minutes away from the city! Click here for more photos.

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The Prairie by the Sea

About 3 hours away from the city, yet, the long journey is fully paid with the unusually pretty shade of blue and green, a calm wave where even a canoe will float still, and the feeling of this place is the closest experience of Sigur Ros' Heima video.. you won't be so sure in which part of the world you're actually standing at that moment.

(Click here and here for more photos)

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My Little Hideaway

Why, of course, I'll take them to my Lir: my lair!

{here}

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So, Ladies.. wanna join a picnic with the Picnic Girl?

{A set of Jogja: off-the beaten-path trip is also offered by Summer and Spring featuring Liburan Jogja in a very reasonable price (start from 300k for 4 person). Contact @liburanjogja and @summernspring for inquiry and personalized service.}

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Photographed by Dito Yuwono

Hugs,

Two Stones in My Pocket

2011-11-14T09:31:00.009+07:00

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Spending few days home, my dearest' birthday, future plans, my bestfriend's wedding, new opportunities, many more fun things to do: wishing for the best.

I feel like flying.

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♪ ♫ ♪ Two Stones in My Pocket - Neil Halstead ♪ ♫ ♪

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Miy
Orange Dress - Hooked on Flea

Green Shoes - Hooked on Flea

Plane Ring - Ozzhell

Black Tight - Centro

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

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Kisses,

Resurrection of Cute Dresses

2011-11-03T16:14:00.002+07:00

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Do you know this giddy feeling when a cute dress appear out of a pile, waiting to be found, and it comes in a very very reasonable price? Yep, it's a very good feeling, alright! But, what if you find five cute dresses in unreasonably cheap price at a flea market?

It's art, darling! Pure art!

It's like giving an old unwanted dress a new life. Holly resurrection. Some of them even way too young to die, they were probably just unwanted at the old shop years ago and forgotten. How sad? Why not giving them a second change and second life, eh?

That's what I had in mind when I found these treasures buried inside a Sunday morning flea market in Bandung where I currently resides. Bandung *sigh dreamily* is such a heavenly place to shop! Homemade or vintage goodies, cheap and chic, even branded stuff, ~~delicious food~~ and there also a center for shoes and bag industry where you can find genuine leather shoes and bag in such a valuable price!

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So, what do you think?

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Photographed by Dito Yuwono (who recently visit me in this city for 10 days! Yay!)

Hugs,

Red Hot Beauty Burden

2011-10-31T20:18:00.003+07:00

Red Hot Beauty Burden
(Stoneware, glaze, 1250 deg.C, installation in various dimension, 2011)

"How much are we really aware of our body? Is the skin our physical border? How much space do we each actually occupy? I made body extension out of hands, feet, and the mouth; which are embellishing and hindrance at the same time. It is a comment on the beauty and body cult."
(Mella Jaarsma)

♪ ♫ ♪ Bella Legusi's Dead - Nouvelle Vague ♪ ♫ ♪

(The other models: Louise and Anto Arief)

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About The Artist

Strange and creepy arts are always excite me. On top of it, Mella Jaarsma's work of art is the one that never fails to impress. Combining enough strangeness that sometime disturbing with issues on fashion, beauty, and feminism; she makes everyone's head not only turn around for a second glance but also makes them stare at her works, intrigued by it.

Recently, she just exhibit her work in the window of Espace Culturel Louis Vuitton at the Champs-Elysées, Paris, France in a group exhibition with leading Indonesian artists curated by Hervé Mikaeloff (read here and here). She also owns a top contemporary art gallery in Indonesia, Cemeti Art House- situated in Yogyakarta.

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About being an Art Installation Mannequin

When mbak Mella called for models to wear her works exhibited in Soemardja Gallery, Bandung; I immediately offer myself to be part of the exhibition. I had no idea what kind of "big chunky red necklace" she wanted me to wear, but, whatever it is, I knew it would be totally strange, intriguing, and exciting.

As you can see, the necklace covers my face, the ‘beads’ were shaped in teeth and gum form, somehow it looks a bit sadomasochist (which went totally perfect with the juxtapose of me wearing a girly mini white lace dress and heels), and I ought to stand stapled to the wall wearing that necklace and posing as a mannequin. The necklace was so horrid, it’s beautiful.

Since I was forbade to move (and I wasn’t even intended too); my mind moves wildly. Now I have a clue on how it feels to be a piece of art displayed in a gallery- under the spotlight- during the opening night. I wasn’t even worried about how it might look like, mbak Mella was the star of that night exhibition, her works were intense, and the one that I wore was the weirdest of all. Meaning, everyone’s eyes set on that one, everyone starts taking pictures and approaching, and take a long look and long talk about it. Some people asked whether the artist was insane. Everyone even wonders why did I wear a lace miniskirt while the others wear t-shirt (well, that’s the only plain white piece I brought here). I’m glad they think it was conceptual.

What do you think?

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Miy

White Lace Dress / Versicle Shop

White Shoes / Connexion

P.S.: Sorry for the poor quality images, my dear photographer wasn't around; my sister and my friend took the picture instead..using the pocket and cell-phone camera. I'll change the pictures as soon as I receive it from the artist.

P.S.S.: If you find this post intriguing, perhaps you can take a look to another fashion-meets-art project I did with silk dress and menstruation blood in a Japanese artist's project via Cemeti Art House few years ago. (Click here to read or download the booklet about it)

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Happy Halloween!!

A Place Where Time is Irrelevant

2011-10-16T18:17:00.004+07:00

The earth belongs to anyone who stops for a moment, gazes and goes on his way

Colette

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What would you do on a day when the sun shine at its best and the cloud seem to vanish, leaving the blue magnificent sky bare and sweet? You know.. this kind of day when the wind blows not very gently, and you don't mind the messy hair.

Time might not stop, but it just simply seem irrelevant. The best thing in a day like that, is to be with the one you love most right next to you. The journey will soon remind you of your love story..for love, is also a journey. A road trip with beautiful scenery along the way, made perfect by the ups and downs, when two hearts grow closer until it bounds as one. As one, we walk down the road to a place where time seems irrelevant.. amazed by the newness of everyday life.

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We are torn between nostalgia for the familiar and an urge for the foreign and strange. As often as not, we are homesick most for the places we have never known.

Carson McCullers

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Being in a heavenly place where time is irrelevant, here are the things I usually do:

{Learn to fly!}

{ Let the wind stoke my hair while I'm laying the picnic mat..}

{Put all my heart in crafty stuff}

{Read on a shade under the sun}

{Daydream under the endless blue sky ..}

{..and lose myself!}

♪ ♫ ♪ Road to Nowhere - Nouvelle Vogue ♪ ♫ ♪

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Miy
Skirt / Popperca
White Top / my sister's
Pink Bolero / Orchid Boutique

Photographed by Dito Yuwono on a surprise road trip he took me..
I always love all the trip we go, every step we take brings us closer and closer.

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Hugs,

The Exciting October #1

2011-10-06T14:55:00.001+07:00

I don't know whether I should be happy or sad.

It's like the good news are mixed with a bad timing and uncomfortable fact, you see..

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Lets start with the good news.

Take a look at this poster below.. after having his solo exhibition last July (where this outfit photo is taken), Mr.Boyfriend is going to have a group photo exhibition presented by Ruang Mes56 in celebrating Le Mois de la Photo 2011 (the month of photography) held by Centre Culturel Français de Yogyakarta (LIP). He is now taking the path of being a full-time artist in contemporary photography while I'm walking my way by his side (and hoping that he won't stop being my photographer..ever..lol!).

3Point Award #1 is an annual photography award for three young contemporary photographer who performs exquisite work in that field. Read more about it here and make sure you won't miss the exhibition.

Save the date!

3 Point Award Photo Exhibition 2011

Opening Exhibition : Saturday 8th October 2011 at 19.00

venue : Kelas Pagi Yogyakarta

Jl. Brig Jend Katamso - Prawirodirjan GM II /1226

Yogyakarta

Exhibition :

9th October to 31 October 2011

at 09.00 to 21.00

Artist Conversation :

Monday 10th October 2011 at 16.00

RSVP here

More info here

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Aside from that, my Lir Shop will held two events in a row this weekend:

Crafty Saturday with Hello Bleu
"Making Your Own Coin Pouch"
October 8, 2011 at 3pm

and

Celebrating World Toycam Day 2011
ToyCam Loves Jogja with Klastic YK
10-16 October 2011

(Click the title of the events to get more info)

Don't miss it! Don't miss it!

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Don't miss it, because I will.. *sad face*

Yeep.. the bad news is.. with all those exciting things happening in Jogja, I am still residing in Bandung.. all those exciting events that I will surely miss.. :( So please..please..please dear reader.. if you're happen to be in Jogja this October, make sure you won't miss these events (because I will).. buhuhuhuhu.. :'((

Miy

Black Top / Little Garage

Short Jeans / Thrifted

Black Peep-Toe Shoes / Absolutee

Photographer Ring / Cuteruu

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

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Hugs,

Anna Darling in Frocktober

2011-10-04T16:49:00.000+07:00

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Remember my lovely friend Anna of Much Love, Anna? You know, the one that make some appearances in my latest Picnic Pal and here. Yes, she's the one who continuously ask that lovely "What do you love?" question every Monday.

This time, she's in Frocktober. She aims to wear a dress everyday during October in raising the awareness of ovarian cancer..and also some funds. Wearing a dress everyday for a month might sound fun and just our cup of tea, but, really.. that's not actually a piece of cake, especially when you live in such a cold weather country as she is.

The loveliest part is, she'll be having fun with all these dresses for a very good cause. We can help by showing our support, spreading the word about her project, sharing nice words, and sure you can always fill up her fundraising box here.

Check more about her Frocktober here and wish her all the best!

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Hugs,

See Through Antoine's Plastic Lens

2011-09-29T16:37:00.002+07:00

And now here is my secret, a very simple secret; it is only with the heart that one can see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye.

-Antoine de Saint-Exupery-

Meet Antoine!

Antoine is the name of this lovely boy I met on a vacation. Antoine is also the name of my favorite author: Antoine de Saint-Exupery. Now, I name my mini digital lomo camera: Antoine. I hope it can see the world in such a lovely and curious fashion like little Antoine does, and also able to see things clearly with heart just like old Antoine advice.

Here are what my Antoine sees through the plastic lens and wishes to tell:

(Once upon a time, Antoine met a lovely girl name Anna and her plastic camera named Yay! We had a day-picnic together and it was such a Yay! day.. ;) )

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(Another day, Antoine ran into the wild.. met an dear little deer withe the most fabulous antler, huge sausage that grows on a tree, two holy cows sitting on a wall: it must be magic!)

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(The very same day Antoine got its name, he read this shaman chant in a photography exhibition: "Starless in the sky where I was born, and as I turned into a breeze, I flew down." Right there and then, he knows how he and that little girl born.. on a starless sky, flew down as breeze..)

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From this day to the ending of the world,

But we in it shall be remember'd;

We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;

-Shakespeare's Henry V, 1598-

(The two picture above were taken in the place where I am now and the two pictures below were taken on a mini trip with Dito beside me. Funny that these four pictures look somehow completing each other while distance keep us apart)

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Photographed by Miy with Antoine

Much Love: Picnic Pal!

2011-09-20T01:28:00.001+07:00

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Meet Anna of "Much Love, Anna"~ a sweet soft-spoken girl who continuously ask one of the most important question every week*: What are you loving?

Simple yet very caring question that leads to anything sweet and warm~ such a conversation starter would lead toward a story of one's life. At least, that's how we start being friends :)

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I start stalking her blog a long time ago, naturally.. she own this lovely blog full of vintage treasure and beautiful photographs. I was one of her fans and I literally jump on my toes when she first replied my email and link me in her blogroll. We start writing to each other from that on.

Just a few months ago, I asked her to join the latest project for my magazine: Huff. She said yes and the corresponding continued. Then I find out that she came from the same city as I do and on her Eid Mubarak holiday, we met.

For sure, she is such a sweetheart, really smart, and having such beautiful vision towards life; also, she's a serious time-framer: she carries three different cameras and literally snapshot everything! Other than being very passionate about art and vintage stuff; she is really tall and pretty.. wonder why she rarely show up in her own blog. With all that pretty vintage dress collection, she really should, don't you think so?

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(Posing all touristy)

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That day, I dragged her to my secret garden for a little picnic with our favorite magazines, vintage toys, toycams, some cookies, hot chocolate, and cheese croquette. Later we explore a bit further to my favorite spot in my hometown, found that Rabbit Lair, and went to visit Papermoon's studio. I was really worried that I might bore her to death, but in the same time, I really wish we had more time to explore more of the most beautiful place here before she's back to Melbourne. Meeting her is like finding an old friend in a new one.

Now I miss her already.

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(Our favorite magazine: Lula and Frankie!)

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Realize how insecure I was standing beside her with all that height gap, she keeps making this bending-knees position in some photos.. I find that reaaaally cute and caring..lol! But it seriously had to stop, so.. in the next photo~ I climb the fence of that Candy-Candy house I love instead. Hahaha..

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(*) Here's what she wrote about Much Love Monday:

"Much Love Monday is a weekly blog post series, intended to start off each week with some positivity instead of the typical Monday blues! To join in Much Love Monday, simply do a blog post that includes a picture of a heart and mention something you love. Then leave a link of your blog post"

How sweet is that, seriously?

Photographed by Dito Yuwono (except the last photo, taken by Anna)

Visit her blog here.

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Hugs,

The Rabbit's Lair

2011-09-17T02:08:00.001+07:00

♪ ♫ ♪ All is Love - Karen o and the Kids ♪ ♫ ♪

Her name is Love.

A white rabbit called Love, as fluffy, and gentle.. and just as pure.

..and she has a pretty lair!

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I have a thing with hidden place. I find it necessary and simply whimsical. On and on I'll keep looking for a lair, falling in love with cute little hidden place all over again, and even creating one just to bring back the childhood memory when I used to hid inside my mother's closet and in the attic..just to have a little corner of the world, all for me.

The day when I found this little hidden gem, I had all these visions inside my head: invite some girls over, have a long talk with the beloved one over a cup of hot chocolate, eating some sandwich and lemonade with childhood besties, put some twinkling little lights inside and camp there.. and the list grows.

Located in my aunty's house, this is actually a growing passionfruit tree that forms a little cave-like hideaway. Someone put a bench and a table made of woods inside this lair.. the same person who own gorgeous Love. Imagine! It's a lair for Love under the Passion-fruit tree. How quirky is that, seriously?

That day, I introduced Anna to Love.. and I made a new friend in the Rabbit's Lair.

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(photos by Anna)

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(photos by Dito)

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Miy

Chiffon Spring Top / Summer and Spring

Scallop Pink Short / Hooked on Flea

Colorful Crocheted Bag / A Gift

Shoes / Hooked on Flea

Outfit photos by Dito Yuwono

Photos of Love by Anna of Much Love, Anna

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Magical Papermoon!

2011-09-13T23:58:00.002+07:00

♪ ♫ ♪ Papermoon - Ella Fitzgerald ♪ ♫ ♪

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Papermoon is a very mean puppet theater. They keep making me cry. Even when they try to be a bit cheerful (like here), they would at least made my tonsil hurts. :'( Last month, I went to their exhibition in Esplanade's tunnel. Even the fact that I've seen the process of making the videos (which is funny and entertaining), being in Singapore with all that stories come alive in front of my eyes; is quite a sad little thing.

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Their exhibition titled "Circus of Life" consist of puppet instalation, drawing, and videos. Visually, it's perfect and detail; just like they always do. Things are so cute, whimsical, magical, and sometime ironic, but never boring.

When you dig deeper down inside, you'll find a sad story about Singapore senior citizen who are still working so hard in their suposedly 'golden years'; working as can-collector, exhausted-looking janitor, 70 years-old taxi driver, dishwasher lady, and so on. It becomes much more alive when you experience it there, and see how most of the worker cleaning up your restaurant table, driving you to the airport, and the one packing your grocery are elderly that might remind you a little about your beloved gramps back home who's living a comfortable golden years.

Just like in their very mean performance, Mwathirika (in which I simply can't stop crying my heart out) and also their latest performance Sirdus Karkus; all seem to leave a trace of 'unfair' feeling. Just like this Circus of Life exhibition. At the end of the tunnel, there goes this uneasy giddiness inside your tummy.. some kind of disturbing unfairness. Yes, maybe watching the elder people work hard in Indonesia (especially in local markets and in the rural area) is quite common.. but seeing them here in such a 'made-perfect-country' seem to make the condition, somehow, worse.

But, hey.. cheer up!

In Circus of Life, all these elderly leads a happy magical life. They can juggle with their plates, fight vicious flower monster, do some tricks with the cans, and such amazing circus performance (shown in the videos installed between the puppets). Afterall, Papermoon is not that mean.. they are magical and that's why I love them!

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Feel the magic while it last!

The exhibition will still be on display until September 26, 2011 in Esplanade Tunnel.

Make sure you won't miss it!

(Read Jakarta Globe's review here)

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(Remember this lady? I once featured her in Picnic Pal. She's mbak Ria, a good friend of mine who's responsible for all the tears and magic from Papermoon Puppet Theater.)

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Follow their blog for latest info.

They are about to go for road-trip show around US next year. Don't miss it!

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Photographed by Dito Yuwono

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P.S.: mbak Anna of Much Love, Anna just featured me in her lovely blog. Check it out here.(I'll be posting about that picnic story anytime soon)

Hello, Goodbye!

2011-09-08T19:55:00.002+07:00

♪ ♫ ♪ Hello Goodbye - The Beatles ♪ ♫ ♪

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Say Hello!

Say hello to new looks of my Lir Shop. It is now filled with more trinkets and curiosities.. and a friend is currently painting on the wall for more surreal feeling. Just wait and see. (I'm so excited!!)..

Later when you step inside the door of my shop, you'll find yourself in the middle of fantasy garden with little unexpected sweet things floating on the wall. Step a little deeper and you'll find more curiosities with vintage goodies for sale, handmade products, and more little doors begging to be opened before you'll discover a liliput cake shop and asked to take a look inside a looking glass to find a colorful wonderland.

We open everyday from 10am to 8pm here.

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Wave Goodbye!

And by the time you read this, I was just waving goodbye to my little shop, my city, and my beloved ones back at home. A little goodbye for a while. I will be residing in Bandung from today till the middle of December 2011 to work as a curator assistance in Selasar Sunaryo art space. This is something I'm looking forward to, so, no drama and no tears this time. (Unlike what happened to me vs Jakarta last year) ;)

Yes, I already miss everything I leave in Jogja, but as my beloved once said, this is once step backward to move three steps forward. Thus, instead of being a cry baby.. I threw a little farewell party (known for my friend as "For-a-while party" and for public as "A Fine Afternoon with Stars and Rabbit"). It's some kind of celebration for my upcoming new phase in life, as well as a gathering with dearest friends. The afternoon was superb, the song were extra sweet, and everything leaves a warm trace of afternoon sun in my heart.

I am ready for a new adventure.

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(Stars and Rabbit.. Elda is such a gorgeous lady, eh?)

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(This is when she sang "Melody of You" for me and dito.. sweetness)

Elda wears maxidress from her private Little Garage collection.

We both wear handmade flower crown.

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

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Hugs,

How Do You Get to Wonderland?

2011-09-03T23:48:00.002+07:00

Alice in Wonderland, how do you get to Wonderland?

Over the hill or underland, or just behind the tree?

When clouds go rolling by, they roll away and leave the sky.

Where is the land beyond the eye, that people can not see, where can it be?

Where do stars go, where is the crescent moon?

They must be somewhere in the sunny afternoon.

Alice in Wonderland, where is the path to Wonderland?

Over the hill or here or there, I wonder where.

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As I promised, let me introduce you to my three-post-in-a-row Picnic Pal: Merpati. She is my bf's cousin and one of my ultimate gossiping girlfriend who could spend hours exchanging stories as well as healthy recipes through the mobile-phone screen no matter how far apart we are.. and yes, she's super gorgeous.. no doubt of that.

Unlike my other Picnic Pals who mostly works for creative industry, Merpati is a bright young geologist working 9 to 5 in a real office~ and loving it! (I always adore her for that; and I always envy her long list of visited-countries for she is a real world-traveler!). When we met, that would mean numerous cute places to visit, bottomless plate of food-tasting, and endless girl-talk. It would also mean a good-hair-day for me because she will voluntarily do my hair like no other could ever do! She's such an angel.. ;)

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Her name, Merpati, literally translated as 'dove'. I find that quite whimsical, what do you think?

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(She took me for a tea and I took her to a thrift market. Now, she's addicted to them! ;))

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Why, in my world...

Cats and rabbits, would reside in fancy little houses, and be dressed in shoes and hats and trousers.

In a world of my own.

All the flowers would have very extra special powers, they would sit and talk to me for hours, when I'm lonely in a world of my own.

There'd be new birds, lots of nice and friendly how-de-do birds, everyone would have a dozen bluebirds, within that world of my own. I could listen to a babbling brook and hear a song, that I could understand.

I keep wishing it could be that way, because my world would be a wonderland.

Wearing this luminescence blue dress and sipping for a cup of fragrant tea with a pretty 'dove' in cute dress, I feel so much like Alice in Wonderland..

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Little bread-and-butterflies kiss the tulips, and the sun is like a toy balloon.

There are get up in the morning glories, in the golden afternoon.

There are dizzy daffodils on the hillside, strings of violets are all in tune, Tiger lilies love the dandelions, in the golden afternoon, the golden afternoon.

There are dog and caterpillars and a copper centipede,

where the lazy daisies love the very peaceful life they lead...

You can learn a lot of things from the flowers, for especially in the month of June.

There's a wealth of happiness and romance, all in the golden afternoon. ...

All in the golden afternoon, the golden afternoon...

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(Absolutely love this place where I met this cutest boy name Antoine)

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(With Karen, the editor of Tongue in Chic at their booth in Hooked on Flea)

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By the way, remember the last time I held a music event? (No? Click here)

I'm about to throw another one next Monday.

Still in my Alice in Wonderland mood, this time I'm going to throw an afternoon tea party with the cutest and most whimsical band I've ever found in Jogjakarta: Stars and Rabbit. They play folk music with just enough quirkiness. The lead singer, Elda, is one of the most stylish gypsy-like person I've ever met as well as a very good friend who could spend five hours talking about everything over a glass of lemonade. She is also the owner of the best vintage shop here, Little Garage. More about her will be posted sometime in my Picnic Pal and now; if you're into folk music and happen to be in Jogja at September 5th, make sure you won't miss this event.

Forward, backward, inward, outward, come and join the chase!

Nothing could be drier than a jolly caucus-race.

Backward, forward, outward, inward, bottom to the top, never a beginning there can never be a stop to skipping, hopping, tripping, fancy free and gay, I started it tomorrow and will finish yesterday.

Round and round and round we go, and dance for evermore, once we were behind but now we find we are be-forward, backward, inward, outward, come and join the chase!

Nothing could be drier than a jolly caucus-race.

For backward... I say! You'll never get dry that way!

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Miy wearing same outfit as previous post

Photographed by Dito Yuwono

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Bunny kisses,