Pressing Restart

Hey, dear readers!

Been such a random week for me back at school. Lot's of changes, a few setbacks, near full-blown emotional explosions. But, I never post any bad details here, so yeah, that's the main point of the negativity that's been floating around lately.

But as I wrote on my twitter (@kainovelia):

"Having a fun weekend is like pressing restart for a terrible week."

And this was certainly the case for this week! Quick recap of what's been going on:

1) AYC After-plan hit a snag. 9th Graders getting back to hear bad news, was like total wildfire.

2) Got two writing comps, which I don't really see turning out well.

3) Getting scolded a lot this week. Hahahaha

But all those negative thoughts and feelings, disappeared over the course of one night. I can't believe how hard I'm laughing now. It all started yesterday:

1) Though my weekend plan with friends failed, I had an awesome day with my fam.

2) We bought Guitar Hero for PS 3 :)

3) I had such a great time laughing, *ngerusuh* with Odi and Jeffry on my fb status announcing the above

4) I've been twittering some funny things. And made twitter a bit insecure to the majority of people who like to talk behind people's backs *Wink Wink*

5) And yeah, getting back on track with some AYC business.

6) OH, can't forget, hearing someone say "I kind of like you", for the first time in the 8th Grade. (Even if you ask, I'm not gonna tell ;) )

See how all the positives triumphs over the negatives? Cuz the main point is, no matter how dark things get, it only gets better from there.

Thanks for reading!

--Karin Novelia, The Girl Who Still Can't Stop Laughing

Behind The Mask

Put into this world, here we share the stage
Each threading the costume we choose to wear
Acting out the characters we choose to be

Then comes a scene thats uncertain
That shakes the foundation of our faith
And shackles us with chains of fear

We take off the costumes we once treasured
And wear the design of another man
Putting on masks to better hide ouselves

A mask of insecurity and fake grandeur
A shield from emotions and reality
All just an illusion, a hopeless facade

As the story goes on, not written as it should
We tire of playing the same empty role
Of playing the same useless game

There comes a time when we realize
For however fleeting or brief a moment
Of the authentic person that lives within us

We surprise others, even ourselves
When we be who we're meant to be
Taking a step closer to who we are

The person behind the mask

--Karin Novelia, The One Behind The Mask

If Life Is A Story

(Just realized a day later that THIS IS MY 50th POST! Awesome! Writing had come so easy, that I didn't even realize it! Post 75, here I come! =D)

Letter by letter, word for word
Second into minutes, day by day,
Who writes my life's story?
Who writes what we say?

Who plans the next scene,
and imagines the next fight?
Who cooks up the plot,
to be read in the light?

If life is a story,
who holds the mighty pen?
If life is a story,
who decides when it ends?

Would the ink stay dry,
or be washed away by the tears?
Would the hero save the day,
and take away our fears?

If life is a story,
will the villian start descending?
If life is a story,
Will mine have a happy ending?

I am a mere writer, I cannot write the future
I can't save a life nor the world if I could
But I can write down the past, and dream of tomorrow
And pen down the next chapter, treasured as it should

--Karin Novelia, A Mere Writer

Foreseeing the Uncertain Future

Time is a fluid as water, as brittle as sand. It moves forward endless, unbounded to the forces and power we humans posses. Lately, I've been feeling that time has become an enemy of mine. It moves so slow, when I want it to speed up, and yet it taunts me by giving me so little of what it can give when I have numerous things I want to resolve and accomplish.

I've going through some problems, after evidently reaching such a jubilant high.

Apparently, our ASEAN day plans have it a rut in the road. The school has shown disagreement for the planned proceedings to be held on the 30th and 31st of August, which is coming up pretty soon. They don't approve us taking up some school periods, especially since we're nearing Lebaran holidays.

It has been suggested that we postpone ASEAN Day back to the 28th of October, coincidingly Hari Pemuda or Youth Day in Indonesia. Personally, I see nothing wrong with this change. But what bothers me is that we have to change ASEAN day to Indo Day. Cutting back on the ASEAN stuff and showoing more of Indonesia, isn't wrong, but what about all of our hard work and preparation these past few days? Do we just throw them out the window?

There are times like these when you don't like something, but feels so powerless to do anything about it. The future is unexpected. We can't say for sure what it holds for us. But when we try to foresee this uncertain future, we catch a glimpse of what could be. An image of a brighter future.

I guess that inspite of all this uncertainty, I want to only work harder than ever. By keeping optimistic, keeping on picturing a better future, I'll do what I can to make sure it comes true.

Wish me luck!

--Karin Novelia

Busy Bee Me!

Quick update, faithful readers!

1) Got most of schoolwork done! Finished catching up on all tests and quizzes too!

2) Getting so pumped for ASEAN Day

3) Two writing competitions coming up! Wish me luck :)

4) Been going through a few high in the sky fantasies. Yup, cloud 9. Hahaha ;)

5) Still have post-AYC fever :) Keeping in touch with great friends and even had a chat with the awesome Carin Loh! :D

Soo yeaaahhh, life seems so great all of a sudden! Coincidentaly, I'm pumped on the same day the 9th Graders leave for retreat! Just kidding! Hope I can keep this spirit up! =D

Thanks for reading!

--Karin Novelia

I Just Wanna Say... Thank You.

*Siiiiiiiiiiggggggggghhhhhhhhhhh*

Talking a walk down memory lane, sure is just... :')

After 2 weeks, this is still on my mind. Sorry, if the THANK YOU NOTE took so long, I've been busy okay :3 But better late than never right? I guess another reason I've decided to write this up now is cuz I've hit a bit of a snag in life right now. A few problems here and there, have gotten me derailed from my track of optimism and happiness. But amidst all the problems, I remembered AYC, and looking back at those memories reminded me that what I wanted to do was still in the right direction, and that it still is something worth doing.

Before you can move forward, sometimes you have to step back and really remember the things that have happened, the memories and experiences that keep you driven. All the while, you are compelled to say THANK YOU, even if it seems like repeating it over and over again.

So, AYC's over. And I have to say, it has really changed my life. I've said thank you and been grateful, a thousand times over, but I feel a proper thank you note is in order. The last time I did something like this, was back in the 6th Grade, just after I graduated. So you can probably tell, making a thank you note for AYC, which only lasted a week or so, makes it special.

And DARE I SAY it... better than 6B :O 

There I said it. So be happy people, feel special. One by one, let's go. (Just skip to your name then to the closing, if you don't wanna get bored XD)

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1) First of all thank you to Mr and Mrs Chu for helping us along the way, making this GYCi and AYC happen and being such inspirational leaders who believe in the power of youth. To Yan Kiat and Yan Ling, for being such cute kids and great side entertainment :)

2) For Eileen, Stephanie, and David for showing what Youths can do by putting together AYC 2010, being awesome chairpersons and getting me pumped up to put my best foot forward in the AYC (in Indonesia, I heard :D).

3) To the proffesional speakers and experts who took the time to come over and educate us Future Leaders. I really appreciate what you've taught us and how much you believe in the power of YOUTHS. I'll always remember the important lessons you've given me and be sure to put them to good use.

4) To all my New friends:

-To the fellow YDLs I met on Day 1 :) (Azrina, Amirah, Heng Yi, Sun, Bao, Jiahe): It was fun getting to know you guys on the YDL training sessions! Thanks for sharing with us what knowledge you have and letting us know on the issues you face and would like to solve. You're a great bunch of people, so good luck for whatever you do in the future!

-All the fellow groupmates of J3: (Yin Tan, Yan Ying, Hui Yie, Sha, Natalia, Agas, Mia, Jun Wei, Dhiraj) Thanks for being such great groupmates! I really enjoyed the discussion and laughs we had together. Never forget WOW!, and keep in touch! :)

-J3's Lovely Facil, Xin Yu: Thanks for being such an awesome facil! We would be clueless in our discussion without you. Even though Dhiraj calls you an old lady, you look very pretty to me :) I read your words of inspiration from your farewell card when I feel down, because it reminds me of you and AYC!

-The guys at Outreach (Vivian, Yi Xin, Ryan, Darren): Thanks for being such awesome people and hanging out with us delegates during the night programs! The AYC experience just wouldn't be the same without it! Come to the next AYC in Jakarta, and we'll return the favor! Thanks for sending us off too! See you :)

-Dhiraj: Special shout-out to you man :) It was sooo nice of you to come all the way to the airport to say goodbye. I'll miss your fluffy attitude (?) and off-the-cuff remarks and humour! You're an awesome speaker man, I see you going places ;) 'Till next time, Fishball  XP

-Ezra: How can I forget Mr Insensitive? Thanks for adding some extra energy into AYC with your humour and awesomeness :) I hope you've taken my advice and gained some weight! Hahaha. Thanks for also making me immune to POKES, and teasing me with a certain someone ;) (I'd prefer you stop it though!). Come over to Jakarta sometime, and we'll be sure to show you a great time! 'Till then, cheers :)

-Carin: Hey, SOT twin :) Thanks for being such a great friend while we were there, being so fun. Your as awesome and pretty as your name! I'll miss you lots, and thanks for the farewell snacks, they were delish. Hope to see you again soon :)

-Boon: Thanks for taking us around Universal Studios on our first day XD. You're a really fun guy, and a master of air guitar. Hahahaha. Good luck in your future endevours, keep on rockin'! :)

-Uly: Really huge thanks for the Public Speaking session you gave to us YDLs! It was a great session, and you really got us into it by making us improv on the spot. But seriously, could've you thought of a more embarassing topic? "My Most Embarassing Moment", doesn't get as personal as that, huh? But it really made the session more enjoyable, and you reminded me that Public Speaking can be fun! Also, thanks for letting me see a stagedive in person, how to play air-guitar the right way, and showing me that a guy can hold a pink ukelele with style XD. Good luck in future plans, keep on being a great Public Speaker! :)

-The rest of the SOT gang, to numerous to mention: This AYC event wouldn't even had happened it wasn't for all of you guys' hardwork! THANK YOU SO MUCH! The memories made shall be kept in my heart forever. Hope we can see each other again in the next AYC! :)

5) Indonesian Peeps :)

-Fellow Indonesians from Bandung and Jakarta: (Gianna, Adit, Rafi, Dio, Dania, Adrian, Agas, Mia and Gloria) Hey, great job in AYC guys! It was a pleasure working with you, thanks for the help and cooperation! I look forward to our future plans together and a growing and lasting friendship! Let's make Indonesia proud! :)

6) The Wonderful People at Santa Laurensia JHS :)

-BIG THANKS to Mr Yudi, Pak Higinus, Bu Jane and Bu Maria for accompanying us on the AYC trip and helping us throughout the way. Without your support and faith in us from the beginning, we would've never been able to achieve what we did.

-Yudhi: Congrats again for becoming Head YDL! See great things in your future man, look forward to working with you. Without you this whole trip probably wouldn't have gone as smoothly as it did, so THANKS, for your support, care, and panic attacks (?) because of us. Learn to relax a bit, so you're head doesn't come off and I'm sure you'll be fine :)

-Jeffry: Patapon! (Peace Jeff ^^V) Thanks for being such a great guy throughout the entire trip. You're younger than I am, but that doesn't really show. You've got great potential, and sure can bring a fun yet deep guy. Good luck with being Alternate Chairperson. Hope we can continue to work together in the near future! :)

-Zoya: Hey, Zoya. I think you're a really nice girl, very responsible and able to be a leader. It was fun getting to know you better in this trip, and thanks for comforting and supporting me when I... well, you know. I really am grateful for you're help! THANK YOU SO MUCH!

-Kay: When I think of you, I think of the song Nobody. Hahaha. You're such a fun girl Kay, you may be small physically, but you have a big heart! Thanks for being such a great and bubbly friend, bringin joy and laughter to the whole experience. LOVE YOU, hugs! :)

-Edwin: You've been a big help, arranging the exhibition booth. Though you made a mistake, you still did a good job! Your laugh is just hilarious and you can keep a cool-head but still be fun when the situation allows. Hope to do great things together in the future :)

-Odi: otherwise known as Dit... I won't finish it XD. Your such a nice guy, a bit quiet but really fun. Sorry, if we kept you awake at night by talking in your room. Hahahaha. You must teach me Vietnamese language again, hahahaha. THANKS for lending me your iPhone too. Hahaha :)

-Clara: One word to describe you: Pretty. Seriously, I'm jealous, hahaha. You're a sweet and fun girl, made me laugh a lot during the trip. Hope I can get to know you even more. THANKS for being so awesome :)

-Cathy: You look like Clara so much, I sometimes get you two confused. XP You're great at playing the guiter, teach me sometime yeah? Hahaha. I like the way you speak, it sounds so cute, and you've been a big help throughout AYC, and a fan of doing the AYC claps. (GIVE ME ONE SEXY MACHO CLAP! XD) THANKS for making us have such a great time! :)

-Erico: Nyahaha, thinking of you during AYC always bring a smile to my face! As a fellow writing club member, AYC has helped me seen you in a different light. You're a fun guy to be around, to talk with, and though the way you act at night is somewhat scary (HAHAHA) you sure can make people laugh! Thanks for showing me how GAY the Nobody Dance can make a guy seem (just kidding, man XP) and showing me that a guy can buy undergarments and show them off. LET ME BORROW YOUR LEADERSHIP BOOKS. And keep on writing man :)

-Toby: Hey, Mr Student Council President. You're a really funny guy, always fooling around and saying something hilarious. But you proved that you can also be serious, intelligent and really helpful. I see you being an AWESOME future leader, and THANKS for everything you've done, even as Student Prez for this past year at Loren. :)

-Sharleen: Poce, hehehe. I'm amazed at the fact that we don't know each other that well, but we got together so quickly. You've been an awesome roommate (though, we never stayed in our room much), and I enjoyed spending nights with you and the rest of the 'sesi curhat' gang. The way you and Erico fight is hilarious! XD

THANKS for being such a good friend. Love you, muachh. :)

-Evan: Panda! I almost forgot your name here XD. (Sorry, not on purpose!) Yeah, so, I think we've gotten pretty close over AYC, which is amazing since I've never really known you before. THANKS for helping me carry my things, finishing my food (AND SLURPIES), and lending me money to buy shoes :3 You're a really funny, but also cooperative guy. I had a nice time talking and spending time with you. BUT I HATE THAT I'M SHORTER THAN YOU! And that you're so white and call me black. And you tease me so much. Hahahaha. -__- Anyways, hope we can keep this friendship up for a long time! :)

-Olivia: Your so tall lah, I'm jealous -__-". Hahaha. I've had so much fun hanging out with you, especially at Sentosa! We got sooo wet! Hahaha. And you kept on losing things, which were apparently in MY bag. But you haven't uploaded the AYC photos yet, meanie :3 Just kidding! No pressure, but upload them sometime, cuz they're really good ;) THANKS for the awesome time and letting me borrow your camera (not to take pictures HAHAHA). :)

-Karina: Hey, it's my other twin! You might not agree, but with people mixing up our names as often as they do, we might as well be! Hahahaha. I THANK YOU SO MUCH for your awesome camera skills. You have given me some of the greatest picture in AYC! Hehehe. And thanks for letting me play Tap Tap on your iTouch! Say hi and THANK YOU to Audrey for me too. Love you like a sister and bestie, muachh :)

-Kenny: Nyahaha, so how did your little brother like the NERF? THANKS for being a bit crazy during AYC, and for lifting up the mood with your awesome childish energy. Because you took me to Toys R Us, I was able to buy that Woody doll :3! And for introducing me to your little twin (Yan Kiat) Hahaha. I LOVE your pajamas, and I want to see you wear them again! Just keep the bad languange to a minimum next time okay? Hahaha :)

-Meydi: Hahaha, I just remembered the song NOBODY again. THANKS for showing me how to the the dance, the right way, and for being just the loud and awesome you during AYC. Be like Erico and show off the undergarments you bought with him (Just Kidding! XD). Nyahaha :)

-Garry: David! (Kidding ya, XD). I don't know why you hate being called David, it's a cool nickname, you know. Hahaha. Fellow 8A-er, you really have been a great help during AYC, being a YDL and everything, and have suffered catching up just as I have. XD. Good luck in your current position and THANKS for being so tolerable when we crashed in your room for our night sessions :3. DAVID! (Just for fun) :)

-Natasha: Hey, did you decide whether or not to fall yet? Hahaha. I miss our heart-2-heart sessions, and you going crazy at night, forcing me to... you know ;) Your a great girl, really fun and energetic. THANK YOU for almost spilling my secret, and making the rumours seem bigger than they already are (sacrastic mode: ON) Hahahaha. Wish you luck in your love-life. LOVE YOU, muachhh :)

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This turned out to be so long @_@. Hahaha, well, that just means that there are a lot more things that I'm THANKFUL for. So even though AYC 2010 is over, I'm really glad it happened, with all the laughs and smiles and ups and downs.

THANK YOU SO MUCH AGAIN FOR EVERYTHING AGAIN GUYS!!!

Especially, to the Laurensia AYC-ers, I know we're all pretty busy since we came back. Even in the middle of all of the crazines with catching up with school, quizzes and tests, we still have been motivated and inspired enough by AYC, to start out After-Plan.

I'm sorry, if there are a few things that haven't gone entirely well. Especially on behalf of me, sorry for all my mistakes and errors. (Especially yesterday's presentation, FAIL! So SORRY again) I've accepted what criticism and comments you guys have given me, and I'm grateful for the feedback and support.

From this point onwards, let's keep on putting our best out there, to make our plans work.

THANKS FOR READING! :)

--Karin Novelia

I'm a Failure

Pretty pathetic title up there huh?

Let's just say, I've been having a pretty bad day, and tomorrow I'm afriad might not be all that better.

BAH! Whatahellamisayin? TOMORROW IS GOING TO BE GREAT, no matter how epic a FAIL today was. YES! I'm optimistic, really optimistic.

But, still, for the sake of my mental health, I guess I need to vent. Let out some steam before I blow.

So yeah. Today was a day I was dreading to go into. Why?

1) I knew the morning would go terribly wrong. My Public Speaking skills have failed me :(

2) I knew that someone would not be happy by the end of the day. Ultimately, I was right.

3) I knew that before the day even started that I would feel under-appreciated. I still do.

Nyaa... Sigh. HAHAHAHAHA! Bah .__.

Emotions are stabile right now, but they were flying all over the place the entire day. There's just one question on my mind now. Am I letting this go too quickly? I've always been told that I tend to be too nice for my own good. By just keeping quiet, am I just letting the trash pile up? Will this just let people continue on with their biased judgements, without me even standing up for myself?

But by opening my mouth will things even get any better? Or will it just add flames to the fire? It could end in ultimate resolution, but the spike of emotions and conflict that precedes it might not be even worth it. I've been there and here before. I know neither scenario is ideal, but I can't see either one as better.

When I thought of the words, "I'm a Failure", it took no hesitation for me to accept it. To accept the harsh criticism dished out by another. Honestly, I do feel like such a completely failure, I won't lie. I won't make excuses. I could blame everyone else but I haven't. I could've sulked all day, but I didn't.

And that is something, I can be proud of for myself. This trial of misconception and error has only strengthened me as a person.

Either way, I may be a failure today, but I can sure as hell be a SUCCESS tomorrow.

Thanks for reading.

--Karin Novelia

Tigers, We Are Ready To Pounce!

So let me start of this post with a very special greeting:

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY INDONESIA! 65th INDEPENDANCE DAY!"

National spirits high up there, I was feeling pretty pumped. No lessons? Oh yeah XP. Unlike previous years though, this year's Independance Day at School would be a bit different.

So the morning started off, with the usual Independance Day Ceremony. I was actually standing in the front, you know, next to the blue-uniformed people with the feathered-hats. YES, the MARCHING BAND people. I, along with a few friends, Amanda, Nico, Vania and Malvin, were going to play trumpets since we were in the Marching Band as our extra-curric class last year. It went well, I guess, considering we had limited time to practice. By the end of it though, I was pretty sweaty, and my arms were aching from holding the trumpet up so long.

Oh, wait. Guess the title of the song we played: LORENZ TIGERS. (And yes, with a Z! Hahaha)

Today, was also the launching of the new Lorenz Mascot, the Tiger, Rawr!

There was even a guy who came out in a Bright Orange Tiger Costume, fooling around and being hyper-active just like a mascot should be. There was a ceremonial release of yellow tiger baloons, that were sent flying high into the air.

Everyone was even given, these COOL t-shirts.

Let's hope we can keep this kind of school spirit around!

--Karin Novelia, Newly-Born Tiger Cub :3

Aloha, Pak Agus

Today has been a pretty bad day for me. I woke up this morning feeling so ready to go to school. But in the end I couldn't because this annoying little cough that surfaced just after I came home from Singapore, turned for the worse. Now my throat is sore, and my voice is on the verge of completely getting lost. When it does come out, I sound like a croaking frog.

On the up-side of sick days, as always, was extra sleep time, some very needed R&R, and something most kids wouldn't probably agree to, a chance to get most of my schoolwork done.

But amidst of my sudden energy boost to get to work, my spirit was dampened just this evening.

I was sitting by my Doctor, Doctor Indra's table as he wrote out a prescription for my sore throat, when my Mom suddenly shoved her BlackBerry into my face. At first, I thought she was going to tell me a corny joke, or the latest gossip moms like to talk about these days, but when I reluctantly read the single line of news, there was no more I could do than to blink back in surprise.

Pak Agus. Elementary PE teacher. Passed away?

I couldn't even register what was written on the screen. For the first few seconds, I didn't even want to believe it.

I still remembered the last time I saw Pak Agus. I remember it as if it was yesterday, because it really was only yesterday. It was after school, and as always my preferred route towards home passed the Elementary's Einstein Hall. I saw my little sister walk into the TU, and followed her to take her home. I saw my Mom, also waiting inside, the small room, Pak Agus sitting on the receptionist table.

I can still picture his face. He was smiling, having a nice conversation with my mom. I could see the wrinkles converge at the corner of his eyes, as he laughed about something, seemingly happy. Seemingly fine.

I passed the BlackBerry back to mom, as she asked the means of Pak Agus's passing. She kept reveling in the fact, that she had talked to him just yesterday, without realizing that would probably the last time she would talk to him. The last she would even see him.

A heart-attack. That was what took him away from us. From his family, his friends, his beloved students. A way of dying so sudden, it would practically be painless. All I could think about then was Why? Why now? Why ever, for that matter? Was death that merciless to take away someone who's time hadn't even come?

The doc came back with my medicine, and I said thank you and left, my heart felt heavy.

I felt like crying. Oh, man, I felt like crying so much. But I didn't wanna do it in front of my Mom. Nor at home for that matter, in front of my Dad, sister or brother. But it hurt a lot. Hearing such awful news. My heart was aching. I couldn't bear it.

But I held the tears in. I convinced myself that not crying, didn't mean I didn't care. Not crying meant, that I was being strong. Being strong so as to not make others sad, or worry about me. And being strong for Pak Agus, who surely is in a happier place now.

Instead, I had a flashback moment in the car. I remembered the days back in Elementary, when I was being taught by Pak Agus. For someone who's a bit athletically-challenged, PE wasn't always such a favorite of mine. Sure, I would give my best, but in the end, I'd be really wiped and wasn't able to master any techniques.

But, with Pak Agus, I found a new joy to learning PE. He pushed me to try even harder. He pushed me to believe in myself, to believe that I could. In the end, I wasn't a master, but he helped me to improve.

I still remember a moment back in the 6th Grade, the year I truly miss dearly. It was coming around time to face the National Exams, and also the Practical Exams. The one that worried me the most was PE. Doing forward somersaults were not my forte.

It was after a day when I had had PE. We were practicing doing our rolls, and I of course was hopeless at it. When dismissal time came around, I knew I would be picked up late, and I decided to hang around the gym. It was completely deserted, just me and the lone basketball.

Then, Pak Agus stopped by. Now that I think about it, I don't really know why he was there. He just was. And even until now, I'm glad for that fact. He asked me if I was ready for the PE Practicals yet. He asked in his sort of taunting and playful way, but I openly said no, I wasn't ready. I couldn't even do a freakin' somersault.

He laughed, and since I was feeling down at the time, it irritated me a little. But what he did next, still gets me even now. He pulled out a green mattress, the thin ones we used for practice, and told me try again, at that very second.

I thought he was kidding, at first. But since no one was around, I was confident enough to try. The first attempts were a failure. So much, I was even laughing at myself. But because, I kept trying and because Pak Agus was there to help, and support me, by the end of the day, I was able to do it.

When Practicals came around, you know how much I got in PE? An 8. I know, it's not a 8.5 or a 9, but it was the highest I ever achieved, and so yeah... I'm grateful for it.

Pak Agus is a guy I remember with a moustache. A guy who would tell corny jokes, and had a hearty laugh. A guy who became a PE teacher, who taught me for about 3 years. A guy who taunted me when I failed at PE, but supported me 'till I succeeded. A guy who inspired and taught me, and gave me all the more reason to become a teacher.

And to Pak Agus, wherever you are now, I hope you are happy and satisfied with the life you have led. I believe that you're in a better place now. I know that you are going to read this, and you are smiling right now. I just want you to know, that without you I wouldn't have been able to have done the things that I did. The things that you taught me to do. What you showed me, was beyond mere PE. You taught me to believe in myself. And for that, I want to say THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart.

Even though it's still a bit hard for me to imagine, to walk past the Elementary building, without being to able to say hi, or even see you again, I feel somewhat stronger. Though this is sad news, I'll remember in every step I make the things you have taught me. I'll only become more determined now in PE class, to raise my grades, not just for me, but for you as well.

Goodbye, Pak Agus. You've truly been a great PE teacher and friend for me.

And somewhere, someday, I know we'll get to say Hello to each other again.

So for now, I guess the best thing to say is, Aloha! :)

--Karin Novelia

Being Oh So Ever Grateful

So AYC is over! Yeah, it's sad yet also a momentous occasion.

I know I've been behind on the blog. (Don't let the altered time stamps fool u XP). But I got them all up in the end right?

So yeah, AYC has really changed me. And it's makes so grateful about absolutely EVERYTHING!

I even got so caught up in our AYC after-plan, that I really stepped into the "Leader Throne" today. It was a bit frustrating, at first, but in the end we managed to pull through. But it was also exhilarating, so much that my heart's still pounding right now! I actually am EXCITED to go school now.

I'm so glad and proud of my fellow Laurensia AYC Delegates who are really putting in their hardest right now! Thanks for such a fruitful facil discussion on our after plans, and for cooperating with me!

So, like after every momentous occasion, I wanna write a Thank You Note, thanking everyone through this crazy AYC experience. Maybe I should've done it sooner but I'm pretty busy, so I'll do it tomorrow on the next post!

Nyahaha, sounds like cheating/making excuses? Whatever, at least I know my heart is in the right place.

See u tomorrow!

--Karin Novelia

AYC, Day 10

5th August 2010

This is it. The day of JUDGEMENT.

....

Confused? Good, cuz I made that up HAHA! But seriously, today was the day. The final day. Day 10, or as I like to refer to it Day Z, the day we would leave Singapore.

We stayed up late again last night, me and the gang, and took advantage of this day to finally sleep in. We had plans to go to Orchard Road, but since no one wanted to wake up, we didn't have time.

We got to the airport around 1-ish I think, all together. Now was the time to say goodbye. We were sent off by Darren (who still owes use us all something :P), Vivian, Ryan and Yi Xin the greatest guys from Outreach. Even Ezra and Dhiraj came soon after from school, just to say goodbye :')

Man, I don't know why but AYC has really changed me, made me more emotional. I actually cried as we bid each other farewell and hugged. That was a first for me, really. Crying openly in front of everybody, even people I had only gotten to know in a week. Most of us were crying, some on the verge of doing so. 

Man. I can't believe how painful this suddenly became. I didn't want to say goodbye. I didn't want to leave. Not yet, at least. And maybe, deep inside, not ever.

We checked-in and went past security. My eyes were dry by then, but my heart still felt heavy. We kept on waving to the guys outside, until at the last moment possible. We even waved goodbye to Yudhi (Bye, bye! XD) since he was going on a different flight.

We hanged around the terminal a bit, trying to find a quick lunch before headed on the plane. I was stuffed by the dinner was over. Stuffed because of the food. Stuffed because of the emotional overflow.

I stayed quiet the rest of the flight, sharing my plate with Evan, my personal vacuum cleaner (XD), thinking again on AYC, looking a the farewell notes I got from everybody.

Goodbye is one of the hardest words, no?

But then a thought came to mind:

"Sometimes, good things have to end. That way, there's room for better things to happen."

Once the plane touched back down on Soekarno Hatta airport, I couldn't help but smile. I was sad to have to say goodbye. But goodbye would not be for ever. I'll be back Singapore, just you wait, guys! For now I was back home.

So that's the end of the blog post feed. Thanks for reading. 

Dedicated to AYC 2010!

--Karin Novelia

AYC, Day 9

4th August 2010

Today is a bit of a sad day. Too bad none us realized it until it was too late. For me (a YDL) this day would be Day Nine. For the rest, Day 6. But for all of us, THE FINAL DAY OF AYC 2010. 

Maybe because we we're having so much fun, we probably didn't realize things were gonna draw to a close. Maybe we did, and maybe we were just in self-denial. When I woke late today,  I noticed I was moving a bit more sluggishly than usual. Did I subconsciously realize that today was the day, and had a compulsive need to slow down time, even only in my mind?

I'm not sure. But as I got dressed into my school uniform -- blouse unwrinkled, skirt aligned, sock and shoes neat, topped off with my AYC name tag and new favorite black tie -- I couldn't help but stare at the mirror once again, like on that fateful first day.

I, for some reason, looked different. The spark was there in my eyes again, and the faintest smile was twitching at the corner of my lips, even though there was nothing in particular to be happy about. I reflected not only my new image, but on my new experiences here as well.

I smiled at the games, the fun, the laughter. 

I frowned at my mistakes, stumbles and self-doubt.

I regretted that things weren't truly at it's best. That I was, at times, not at my best.

I regretted being scared for being here. Feeling like I didn't deserve it.

But then I realized, that even if I thought that way, no one else did. Because I was still here, and they believed that I did deserve it.

When I removed myself from my inner-thoughts, I was absolutely thankful for everything! I felt confident now, ready to take on the world. And saying goodbye was the last thing on my mind.

Sentiments aside, feeling good and looking good (I hope!), we headed over to Victoria School. (Have I mentioned how awesome it is? XD). We went into a small conference room first before the auditorium, to present the results of our Country-Based Work Session plans. 

Suffice to say, it went well. Thanks Yudhi for taking the role of speaker.

Our Indonesia project was to increase the education in the English subject, one of the determining factors for the SMP UN (junior high national exams). The other countries, such as Vietnam, plan on cleaning a beach to help improve the environment. Singapore was on raising Youth Awareness and Involvement. Malaysia was to gather funds for different causes.

It was very interesting and inspiring to see the different countries find different ways to solve their respective problems. 

And after the presentation was a little group session, where we sort of said all the things we were thankful and happy about AYC, since the curtains were drawing to a close. Everyone was exchanging shirts, to be signed as souvenirs. I stupidly, haven't thought of bringing my AYC shirt. 

So I came up with a brilliant idea. My canvas shall be be my own hands and arms XD.

Crazy? Not really. Dangerous? A bit, if you don't wash them off ASAP! The last time I did this was during the 2nd grade before I left the Philippines. Sure, I got into trouble and a really LONG bath after I came home, but it was a fun experience.

I ended up with a bunch of signatures all over my hands and arms, and took photos of them, before washing them off. Still trying to get the photos uploaded though, so be patient!

Now came the slightly more saddening part. The AYC 2010 Closing Ceremony. It really was such a honorable event. We were all happy that AYC had happened. We were proud of the things we achieved, the new friends we have met, the experiences we've gained. We had a lot of official photo taking between the groups and Chairpersons and Mr Chu.

The event was also adorned with Cultural Performances by the different countries.  Malaysia had a fashion show/dance performance, which was pretty well-rehearsed. The Indonesian delegates from Bandung got all dressed up in Traditional Costumes and did a mash-up of different kinds of dance. Gloria, another delegate from Jakarta, sang in sinden a traditional Indonesian singing technique, and totally sounded awesome. Us, from Laurensia? Well, we dressed up in our casual batiks, and did a music ensemble of the folk song, Si Patokaan. 

After that we were shown something very touching. It was a slideshow, evidently edited by Ho Yi Xin, whose part of outreach, and showed our adventure this past week as ONE BIG AYC FAMILY.

Oh gosh. I was so touched right then and there. I even got a little teary-eyed, which is a seldom thing for me. :')

So yeah.. after that we were sort of let loose. We took photos, last minute mingling and then the foreign delegates had a trip to Sentosa. We created so many memories there. Most of the Indonesian delegates went over to try the Luge, but since I was broke and had already gone it on Day 0 ;) I decided to just relax by the beach.

Man, the sights there were absolutely beautiful. The last time I had been to the beach was when I was like 4 back in Philippines. To the far left was a bridge that connecting to another small island, decked out with swaying, tall palm trees. And in front us was the vast ocean, clear blue, slowly ebbing as the tide rolled on, hitting the sand and smoothening it out.

I had a blast with Olivia, Kay and Zoya, rolling up our jeans to put our feet in the sand and feel the water. Even Ezra, Yan Cheng and little Yan Kiat dove in the waters for a swim.

The night ended with us watching SONGS OF THE SEA together, something that I re-lived after such a long time. I give the show five stars (Y)

When we got back to the hotel, we Laurensia kids convened into room 426, Toby, Edwin and Kenny's room for a debrief. We were all there even Yudhi and Sir Yudi. I was getting a bit nostalgic as we talked about everything we had experienced because of AYC. I was getting teary-eyed a bit, and keep on covering my face, to the point I fell asleep (Hahaha!)

After that we celebrated with cake. More specifically Mr Yudi's tiramisu birthday cake! (Happy Belated again sir :P)

We were all having so much fun, I guess I felt like idiot for becoming a little emo-ish. But when the night was over, I did feel happy, and you know, satisfied. And again, when I felt asleep, I didn't think 'Goodbye' was on anyone's mind.

--Karin Novelia

AYC, Day 8

3rd August 2010

Good Morning. For once I woke up early today, you know! 

...

HAHAHAHA! I can't even type that with a straight face. XD

So, after struggling to get out of the soft and cushy YMCA hotel bed, we all headed over to Cedar Girls' Secondary School and back into it's incredibly FREEZING Plush! Auditorium. Today's broad topic would be on ASEAN's Culture-Socio issues, mainly focusing on Social Provision.

The first speaker was nice gentleman named Han Hai Kwang. He's been involved in a few projects to raise Social Provision in under-priviledged communities. I forgot the exact name of the place, but his project was about providing means of access to clean water through a nifty sand filter idea. He's also personally involved in an organization called Bina Mandiri, which right in Indonesia.

I wasn't feeling completely sleepy throughout the lecture (I'm such a liar XD). But I did learn a few fundamentals when it comes to forming a project. Purpose, Realistic-ness, and Sustainability, are some the things that I will keep in mind, in the near future.

After that, we had another lecture/presentation on another existing project, called Food from the Heart. The founder of this organization was Ms Christine Laimer, who thought it was such a sad thing to see how much food/leftovers gets thrown away by bakeries/restaurants/food stores. So she put out an ad in the newspaper to invite said possible contributers to collect their leftovers to be sent to those would need them more.

The amazing thing about her organization, is that it is completely SELF-SUSTAINABLE. She didn't ask any funds from the government or anything. She started with what she had, and found ways to find regular income to further assure the sustainability of the project. Pretty inspiring, right?

After that we had a really cool PANEL DISCUSSION on the topic. Our honorary speakers, were Ms Penny Low, an active member of the Parliament of Singapore, and Ms Elim Chew, who is the founder of 77th Street, a trendy youth streetwear fashion chain. In short she's an avid enthusiast in youth entrepreneurship. We passed a 77th Street store later on, and when I saw it I was totally amazed. The items in there were so cool, I wanted to fill my closet with them!

If there has to be a reason for me to go back to Singapore, it would be just to go shop at that store >_<

Anyways! This was a really lively kicking and entertaining panel discussion. I was all-ears as i listened to their inspirational stories, as we all jabbed a few jokes. Best moment? A little game I like to call, "GRAB THAT OPPORTUNITY!". Ms Elim Chew, held out a $10 note, and guess who grabbed it? Our own, Gregorius Erico XD.

Next on the agenda would be celebrating: ASEAN DAY! It's supposed to be on the 8th of August, but since AYC was happening now, we just had to celebrate. So we al headed over to J8, Junction 8.

We went up to an open rooftop space, with a stage and a playground. First we had a few minor games to kick of the event, hearing corny jokes and playing limbo. Not to mention taking a lot of photos! We also played, "Pass the Pong", where we had to pass a pingpong ball with only spoons held in our mouth. My group, "WOW!", aka J3, won hands down ;)

Another memorable moment! THE AWESOME AIRBAND by the EXTRAS :)

The song American Idiot played as Boon, Vivian, Uly, David and Nicole, rocked out! There's a video up on facebook, and man it's fun to watch! Uly even did a STAGEDIVE, like he said was a dream come true. XD. 

I was in the front, jumping and singing along, since GREEN DAY is a favorite of my as well. And when Uly stage-dived, he almost fell on top of me LOL. 

After that crazy time, we had the "OUR ASEAN" activity, which was to create a symbol of what ASEAN/AYC means to out group, by using colored rice. We had a great, J3, and we came up with something that can only be described as "abstract art" XD

After that was Cultural Night :) So most of us, who had brought traditional costumes, changed into them. I wore a bright green kebaya (Green's my favorite :D) and a brown, batik skirt. We had a fashion show, and I went on stage with Odi. Favorite pair? More like favorite trio was Evan with Sharleen and Natasha. 

We also had our country booths up before hand. Even though we hit a few rough patches in the start, the Indonesian delegates came together to produce such a wonderful stand. We sang some songs, danced to some tunes, but more importantly, we all had a great time as one AYC family.

I for one, went back to YMCA, very happy :)

--Karin Novelia

AYC, Day 7

2nd August 2010

Woke up late again. No surprise, huh? Well today was going to be another fun-filled day of lectures. For a change, instead of heading of to SMa or Cedar Girls' auditorium, we headed over to Victoria School.

Once I stepped into the auditorium, there were a few thoughts on my mind. Cool Auditorium+Plushy red-velvets seats+Freezing Air-conditioner+Upcoming Lecture+Lack of Sleep= Bye-bye Consciousness. :P

I have to say Victoria School is pretty big, and looks awesome :) I've come to know some pretty great guys who go to that school. So, back to AYC....

The first thing on our agenda, was a lecture on the Political Development and Systems in ASEAN, by Mr Anselm Chu. He repeated some the jokes he told us YDLs on our first day, and all the laughter and nostalgia on the first YDL sessions, made sure my eyes were wide open.

I was sitting next to Jeffry (or as I like to call Mr Patapon :P) and along with the other J3 members like Dhiraj, Agas, Yan Ying. We had tons of fun, laughing at times with our lovely facil, Xin Yu. 

We had another country-based discussion. This time, the Indonesian team would have the two groups combined. Not much to comment on that.

After that lecture, was something that was a great trip. Today, the Junior Delegates of AYC would take a trip over to the Singapore Parliament. It was a bit of hassle, being dropped of by bus then walking the rest of the way. Not to mention, having to go through security checks and bringing along your identification. Riding up the elevator to the 2nd floor (I think), we sat into a small theater with a screen in front. 

Before the actual tour, we would be shown a video on the political system in Singapore, how it works and what goes on in the Parliament. It took about 30 minutes or so for the whole thing to finish, and well most of took this as an opportunity to go to sleep XD

We split into two groups and with out tour guides, we stepped into the observation chamber that overlooked the Parliament meeting room, where the Members of Parliament, Mr. Speaker and other Ministers discussed and resolved some issues.

Settling into more plushy seats, we listened to our guide explain who sits where, who does what, and what happens when. Most memorable moment? This:

At the end of the tour, still in the chambers, the guide goes: "Maybe we should wake this gentleman up?"

In reply, Jeffry goes, "ZzzZZZzzzzz......"

Haha! We then had some extra time to walk around the streets outside of the Parliament. My group J3, and with Erico and Meydi's group which if my memory serves right is, J5, ended up getting together for a facil session, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SIDEWALK.

Not to mention, there was a KFC joint down the street that made all of us very hungry! Also not to mention, that when we got back with the other groups Cathy's group went to McDonalds! Luckily, they saved me some cheese fries though. :)

The night ended with a quick walking trip to MERLION, passing the YOG stadium. Aw, man, when I saw that I was so like "ARGGH!!", because I was really aware that we would be gone once the Youth Olympic Games started. 

Anyways, we took a lot of photos up there, and had lots of fun, mingling and laughing. Apparently, Mr Yudi took a few hilarious videos too!

The night ended at we headed back to the ol' YMCA, and we had a 'sleepover' that night, really getting together and clicking as a group. Another wonderful day!

--Karin Novelia