Laura Joy Land

Every day I see things that I wish I could capture on camera to share with you. Most of the time I don't manage to snap a picture because I'm sitting on the back of a motorbike at the time: it's either not safe to try to take a photo, or by the time I fish my phone out of my bag, the astounding sight has passed. I say astounding, because I really believe you'd be astounded by some of the things I see. Like a family of five on a two-seater motorbike, the kids without helmets, and at least one of them is sleeping soundly while Dad weaves in and out of traffic over bumpy roads. Or how about two guys on a motorbike, with a glass door balanced between them?! I suppose I should add myself and the hubs to this list, since we can often be seen commuting home with two backpacks, our grocery shopping, and of course an ever-increasing bump between us ;) Fortunately words are usually easier and safer to photograph, and by golly are there some funny words around Batam. What makes ...

I had a birthday. My 28 th to be precise. At school I selfishly threw myself a birthday party with my grade 4 class, although I’m sure they didn’t mind eating cake or playing musical statues (to Gangnam Style) for half an hour. In the evening I celebrated with family: my mother-in-law prepared traditional Javanese food and my brother and sister-in law brought a special kind of cake that is baked layer by layer. I received parcels from faraway places, including wonderfully comfy PJs from my brother-in-law and his girlfriend in Bandung, and a lovely top from H&M’s Mama collection from my brother and his girlfriend (we’ve never met, but I’m pretty sure she played a role in choosing it). Me and my little kicker. I wouldn't normally post photos of me in my PJs, but seeing as there's a baby bump to show off, I figured I'd make an exception. So, my first birthday as an expectant mum was delicious and comfy!

It’s Friday again. This week has been better than previous ones. Our students have had midterm examinations the past two weeks, with a reduced timetable as a result. Finishing teaching just one hour earlier every day makes a huge difference to my stress levels. Usually, I teach Grade 1 for 90 minutes at the end of the day, separated by a 15 minute break in which they remain in the classroom with me. I loath these lessons because the kids are tired and restless and the time just drags. So this week, teaching them for 45 minutes and then sending them on their way has been blissful. It goes without saying that I’m dreading going back to the normal schedule next week. It isn’t just my teaching schedule that’s stressing out this mum-to-be. My employers have refused to pay me maternity leave. Their reason? It would be ‘difficult’ for them to replace me for three months, and parents would complain. They are also being very difficult about ‘allowing’ me to resign. They like to make up...