MAXI SWALAYAN

Helloooo Friday! Well, decided today would be as good a day as any to do some real Balikpapan kinda of stuff. (instead of the usual ramble bit) (never know though - that might happen yet too)

Anyways, here goes. Welcome to MAXI SWALAYAN. This is one of (the newest one) of a chain of local supermarkets here in Balikpapan. This place is full of dry goods and canned stuff. No fresh produce, no meats (fish/chicken) or dairy or cheese or anything like that. You need to go to the market or another place if that's what you want. No one stop shopping here in Balikpapan.

Notice the little girl trying to get on the motorcycle with mom. Notice mom is riding a motorcycle with a skirt on. Notice mom, only has flip-flops on for shoes. Notice neither have helmets. That's the way they do things here. Welcome to Balikpapan.

Special Note: We still don't have that Starbucks - that sign has been up for more than 2 years now. I think maybe they've given up. I give up. ...... and it's looking like that new Jolly Rogers is going to be a bust too.

TODAY: Seems like the perfect timing for a Friday, and all the usual Friday things to do. Too early to tell just yet, but big BBQ happening at Yuli's tonight - maybe (?) we'll just have to wait and see about that.

I can sense it - great day on the horizon. Today's a good day to say 'hi' to someone.

Good to Go!