Jalan Braga is the place in Bandung where you can see remnants of its colonial past, and what happens to them if maintenance is disregarded. The once-beautiful buildings that line the street are now, with some exceptions, up for a complete overhaul or at least, a thorough renovation. The whole neighborhood displays a tired look of what it once was, and although it still is one of the sites where history is brought back alive, it's not alive and kicking, but more alive but tired. Bandung has surprisingly large number of excellent bakeries. This is one that has retained its colonial Dutch splendor amid more upscale bakeries.
I went back to the temple this afternoon (Monday) as it was the last day of the festival. A parade featuring Barong Sai (dragon dance) and many more puppets dancing in the streets and in the klenteng (Chinese temple). However, since it was pouring, I opted to stay inside. As the statues of the gods were brought into the temple people clamored for the Chinese money and flowers. Many threw them up in the air, others pocketed them.
There are no limitations to what can be offered, and there are many levels of offerings. In general, one can offer any pleasing object, particularly objects pleasing to the five senses form, sound, smell, taste, and touch. Food should be of only the best part, fresh and clean; never old, leftover, or spoiled food.
The blue bowl offers flowers to delight the eyes and nose.
After the children had eaten Mr. Arief quizzed them on social studies words - such as goods, services, income, budget, and consumer. The winners received a Spazz pin which they thought was the greatest of prizes.
