Man, what a day! Seriously, I can’t even. So, I woke up in Kudus, right? The sun was blazin’ like it was auditioning for a role in a summer blockbuster. I’m like, “Great, just what I need.” I had a ton of research to do, but first, coffee. Duh. I hit up this little warung on Jl. Sunan Kudus. Best coffee ever! I mean, I’m not a coffee snob, but this stuff was like liquid gold. I ordered a kopi tubruk, and it was so strong, I swear it could wake the dead. I was feelin’ pumped, ready to tackle my research on the history of Kudus. But then, bam! My phone buzzes. It’s my boss. “Hey, can you present today?” I’m like, “What? Today?!” I had zero prep time. I was still in my flip-flops, for crying out loud! But hey, I’m a Research Associate, so I gotta roll with it. I dashed over to the Kudus Museum on Jl. Raya Kudus. It’s this cool spot, full of history and artifacts. I thought, “Okay, I can wing this.” But as I’m walking, I trip over a pothole. Classic Kudus, right? I’m like, “Really? This is how it’s gonna go?” Finally, I get to the museum, and it’s packed. I mean, who knew history was so popular? I’m sweating bullets, trying to find a spot to set up. I finally squeeze in, and guess what? The projector’s broken. Of course! Just my luck. So, I’m standing there, trying to explain the significance of the Great Mosque of Kudus. It’s a big deal, y’know? Built in the 16th century, it’s got this unique blend of Javanese and Islamic architecture. But all I can think about is how I’m gonna look like a total fool if I can’t get this presentation going. Then, outta nowhere, this kid in the front row raises his hand. “Can you tell us about the legend of Sunan Kudus?” I’m like, “Wow, kid, you just saved my life!” So I dive into the story. It’s about how he spread Islam in Java, and how he’s got this tomb in the city. The crowd’s into it! I’m feelin’ like a rockstar. But then, just as I’m riding that high, my stomach growls. Loud. Like, “Feed me now!” I’m trying to keep it cool, but I’m dying inside. After the presentation, I bolt outta there. I hit up this street food stall on Jl. Pahlawan. Man, the smell of sate is like heaven. I order a bunch, and while I’m waiting, I chat with the vendor. He’s this super chill dude, and he tells me about the local legends. I’m like, “Dude, I need to write this down!” Finally, I get my food, and it’s glorious. I’m munching on sate, and it’s like a flavor explosion in my mouth. I’m so happy, I could cry. But then, I see a rat scurry by. I’m like, “Nope, not today!” I finish my food and head out. As I’m walking back, I pass by the Al-Qur’an Museum. It’s stunning! The architecture is insane. I snap a few pics for the ‘gram. Gotta show off, right? But then, I get caught in a downpour. Like, seriously? I’m soaked! I’m laughing, though, because this day is just wild. I finally make it home, drenched but happy. Kudus, man. It’s a rollercoaster. I love this city, even with its potholes and rain. It’s got character, just like me. What a day!