tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28921295436924793892012-02-13T23:31:52.046+08:00I love to travel and will be moving to Singapore in Aug 2009. I hope to share my goings on with everyone - from the utterly mundane to wonderfully exciting :).LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.comBlogger1521100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-36702165857682876682012-01-06T20:19:00.001+08:002012-01-06T22:09:49.300+08:00

It's hard to believe that I'm about 2 1/3 years through my assignment here in Singapore.  I'm suppose to come home in like 8-9 months!  Three years sounded so long from the start and now it's flying by me.  I had a good friend move back just before the holidays and as he was preparing for the move, it really made me think about my time here as well and how quickly I'll find myself in pack-up mode

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-49220359098047572642012-01-02T20:42:00.000+08:002012-01-02T20:42:44.828+08:00

We had an uneventful trip home from Bali, slept in my own bed a couple nights, caught up on work emails and then packed for a New Year's holiday to Penang, Malaysia. Cindy, a friend of Stephanie also from the US, joined us for a total of three lovely ladies. We arrived in Penang on Thursday, which is an island just off the northwest coast of Malaysia. We tried to book the ferry for Friday to

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-53101604693355493532011-12-27T09:37:00.001+08:002011-12-27T10:35:13.665+08:00

On Christmas we went to a village to see original Balinese, the Bali Aga. They are a small group, maybe 300 families and had some handicrafts for sale. One lady was really nice and explained some of the history to us. I bought a fun new scarf from her for next winter. We headed to a nearby bay from there where our driver helped us find a snorkeling crew and lunch. The restaurant made all the

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-64401622205713457242011-12-24T16:46:00.000+08:002011-12-24T16:46:07.840+08:00

I got to Bali yesterday with a friend and today we went for a beautiful bike ride through the small villages and rice paddies. We saw them harvesting rice, got a tour of a local Balinese home and coasted most of our 25km. I almost got lost once when I missed a turn, but the guide ran me down (yeah I wasn't going too fast). Then my camera flew out of my pocket but luckily survived. I had some

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-61765979254623573802011-12-23T02:24:00.000+08:002011-12-23T02:24:18.790+08:00

Imagine that it is still light out at 7pm.  It is 80 degrees.  Your skin is slick with a nice sheen of sweat from the humid, humid air.  And in 3 days it's CHRISTMAS!! Yeah, not so much.  It doesn't really feel like Christmas in Singapore - not the first year, not the second year (even with the addition of family) and still not in the third year. Christmas can be crazy hectic at home, but

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-73364668184137795282011-11-28T23:33:00.000+08:002011-11-28T23:33:57.585+08:00

As with many things that I start quite enthusiastically, the newness wears off and I get distracted.  This happened with my Wii (which is now with my Mom), the Kindle (I still read it now and then, but not like I use to), my muay thai classes (haven't been since July) and this blog. I wish I had more commitment.  What can I carry through? Watching a full TV season.   Using every dish available

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-50428868522832871852011-10-02T01:20:00.000+08:002011-10-02T01:20:19.498+08:00

If you have seen Kick-Ass, you might recall the young Hit Girl.  If not, I recommend putting it on your rental list. Even with Nicolas Cage, it was still a good movie. We had our annual work Dinner and Dance with the theme of "Heroes".  Now, yes, a hero can be a police officer, fireman, doctor....but are those any fun?? No, only superheroes (and villains, but that wasn't an option).  However

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-17201475241262411592011-09-18T11:51:00.000+08:002011-09-18T11:51:23.664+08:00

My travel has been adjusted slightly over these few months, but I did make it back home for a long Labor Day weekend and then on to Orlando for a work conference.  It had been about a year since I'd been back to the States.  I got to see a few family and friends.  Looking forward to the longer trip in October when I'll get to see more.  If you're around the week before Halloween and want to get

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-32424215226884694182011-08-13T09:06:00.000+08:002011-08-13T09:06:10.867+08:00

Hard to believe but in a couple of weeks I'll begin year 3 of my three year assignment here in Singapore.  While I haven't taken near enough advantage of my prime travel location in Asia, it seems like that will certainly happen the next few months.   July was Thailand and getting caught up on some work.  August started with a long weekend in Vietnam thanks to the Singapore National Holiday.  

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-36791612484611737272011-07-15T19:08:00.000+08:002011-07-15T19:08:14.415+08:00

Sorry - I've been going chronologically backwards for these last few posts. In June, someone made me aware of Beerfest here in Singapore.  I think it was like the 2nd or 3rd annual one.   Now many of you will be wondering why I, a non-beer drinker, even considered going to Beerfest.  Well, it sounded fun, good company and someone assured me there would be some other options besides beer.  So why

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-79457662226607734422011-07-14T21:47:00.000+08:002011-07-14T21:47:52.679+08:00

What can I say, I can't get enough of Bali.  I think it's my new favorite place.  A few weekends ago I went for my third time.  The first couple times were on my own for some R&R.  I think I read a combined 8 books in those six days.  This time we had a group of seven of us and we decided on an all-inclusive resort. A group of 5 of us took full advantage of the free-flow drinks.  (Note: Free flow

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-6641118892577966812011-07-12T18:35:00.000+08:002011-07-12T18:35:20.398+08:00

For the 4th of July week, I had some great friends from the U.S. visit, Mark & Nicole. Mark and I met during a summer internship back in 2002 (neither of our current jobs) and have stayed in touch since.  He worked in Varese, Italy (north of Milan near Switzerland) for two years and I had visited him and ran around Italy for a couple of weeks then. It was a great time and I was more than happy to

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-70279012436706701692011-07-10T22:25:00.000+08:002011-07-10T22:25:10.676+08:00

I'm not sure what happened, but we're already 10 days into July and I never even posted in June.  The month flew by!  What was I doing?? - I had some friends leaving town - so good-bye dinners and drinks were in order. - Beerfest came around and this non-beer drinking girl attended and had a great time. - Broke my washing machine somehow. - I worked doggedly to try and meet some key work

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-16193756171069232682011-05-30T23:59:00.000+08:002011-05-30T23:59:29.918+08:00

First off, Happy Memorial Day! to my fellow Americans back home and around the world.  It's a great day to remember those who served our country and are no longer with us.   This past weekend, I had a quick weekend trip to Yangon, Myanmar (aka Burma), the former capital city.  Myanmar has most recently been in the news for the cyclone that hit in 2008 causing massive damage and the ineffective,

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-27547753094563099192011-05-22T19:58:00.001+08:002011-05-22T20:01:28.393+08:00

I got my passport what seems like long, long ago - way back in 2002 :).  Passports are generally good for 10 years, and 7 January 2012 has been my closely approaching expiration date.  In Asia, you can't go many places with less than 6 months to go on your passport, so time to get a new one. This past week, I went to our U.S. embassy in Singapore.  My expectations were low.  I figured it would

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-82476738988024645912011-05-21T15:51:00.000+08:002011-05-21T15:51:14.574+08:00

The Singapore Repertory Theater is/was putting on Macbeth at Fort Canning Park here in Singapore.  It's been since high school since I did anything Shakespeare related and needless to say, I haven't missed it a bit ;). from the Singapore Repertory Theater website That said, I had some intel from others who went last week that you did not need to be a Shakespeare lover to enjoy the performance.  

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-34081205613463900242011-05-16T22:57:00.000+08:002011-05-16T22:57:39.121+08:00

A 30th birthday is a big milestone and it seems it gets everyone thinking about doing something they haven't yet done.  Skydiving is a big one, which would go along with bungee jumping. Both are pretty high and I don't know that I'm really up for that.  I've heard 30 countries by 30...I got to 20, so no-go there.  Maybe a tattoo? Yeah, I'm too indecisive for such a permanent item. I finally

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-30566824784147295242011-05-15T20:51:00.000+08:002011-05-15T20:51:50.532+08:00

Having a birthday on the 13th means every once in a while it falls on Friday the 13th, which it did this year.  The last one I remember on a Friday was my golden birthday (i.e. my 13th birthday - double whammy).  Both turned out well :). I've never met anyone with my exact birthday before, but this year there happen to be two Australians on short-term assignment at work with me, both with May

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-39631317809114893262011-05-05T20:13:00.001+08:002011-05-05T20:15:03.655+08:00

 Good Morning! On my way out the door this morning, I was greeted at the gate by this rather large insect.  About as big as my thumb maybe?  Never seen one before.  S/He didn't scuttle off like a nasty roach.  So I went on my way and figured s/he would as well. Then I came home many hours later and s/he apparently loves it at my place.  Looked like there was no movement.  Of course it is alive -

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-13702076199197516692011-05-04T21:34:00.000+08:002011-05-04T21:34:28.089+08:00

Yep, it's Labor Day and what is Labor Day without a cookout??  Here Labor Day is 1 May, so we got Monday off.  With some impromptu planning on Sunday, we were able to reserve a BBQ pit at my condo and send out some text invites.  I went out shopping for meat, came back with a boatload of stuff, but only about half what I thought I needed :).  In true family fashion, I decided to over-do things a

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-34751303685534670222011-04-22T15:22:00.000+08:002011-04-22T15:22:16.358+08:00

In the U.S., perms are synonymous with curly hair (this has nothing to do with my last post). In Singapore, they tend to be more obsessed with straight hair.  At any salon you'll see rebonding services on the price list.  When I first saw this, I thought it was like extensions or something.  Wrong.  Rebonding is what I like to term as the reverse perm.  It's chemically straightening your hair.  

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-44088973293308427732011-04-10T13:44:00.001+08:002011-04-10T13:46:25.662+08:00

Back in the U.S., my home office usually dedicated a day each June for the last few years to a local Habitat for Humanity projects.  I've learned to drywall and properly hammer a framing nail :).  It's always been a great way to do something where you can see your impact immediately.  And, very nice to get out of the office and have some physical activity.  So when a co-worker here in Singapore

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-71126734273813835882011-04-08T19:26:00.001+08:002011-04-08T19:26:50.333+08:00

Ever get hair in your food?? on purpose!?!  :)  This is one of the most disgusting things to me.  Hair in food (or really anywhere when it's not your hair), the horrible sound of people hacking up huge snot balls and nasty feet. These are the things that make me cringe. So then we went for Chinese New Year lunch for work.  And someone asked me if I was going to eat the hair. Hmmm??  Do you see

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-63335105934258540442011-04-07T23:09:00.000+08:002011-04-07T23:09:51.980+08:00

When you're outside the U.S. or English speaking countries, you can find lots of funny translations.  You understand what is trying to be said but it sounds so wrong :).  At breakfast one morning while travelling for work, a co-worker pointed out the following headline to me.  Did Mr. Buffett really say "retard"? I don't have pictures of others that I've found, but a quick search on the internet

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-65557490089058656032011-04-05T22:36:00.000+08:002011-04-05T22:36:05.526+08:00

No, not the adult beverage but some awesome kiddie fun!  I went to the second weekend of Concert in the Gardens a while back and had to get a picture or two. Here's a picture of the front of the stage this time :). It was another nice Sunday evening, but Saturday it down-poured during the afternoon and then we got some more rain Sunday morning.  Luckily a real thinker in our group (not me)

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-90250693537956436142011-04-04T23:47:00.001+08:002011-04-04T23:48:20.169+08:00

I don't remember enough about the movie to recall what the title referred to, but it came to mind as I thought about this post. Living abroad gives you a good dose of being a minority and changes your perspective. A white, middle-class female growing up in the U.S. is pretty standard.  I think we only had a handful of non-Caucasian students at my school (K-12) growing up.  College brought on

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-681733181059914842011-03-15T22:26:00.000+08:002011-03-15T22:26:01.296+08:00

I forgot to take a good picture, but maybe you can use your imagination to extend the one below :). From the back, this is the stage/amphitheater/whatever it's called.  Sunday kicked off a series of big band shows at the Botanical Gardens in Singapore.  I think this past Sunday was the Singapore Armed Forces band.  They played all sorts of songs from Disney to classical to a Lady Gaga medley.  

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-5703505466990782792011-03-10T23:38:00.000+08:002011-03-10T23:38:39.419+08:00

Have I mentioned some of the odd flavors and tastes I run into here? Here's a couple I've come across in the grocery store that were new to me.Too many fish flavored things here.  I like fish, but not in chip form :). I like bananas, but to drink? really? Anyone else had banana juice??

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-14602459322306128182011-03-07T19:21:00.001+08:002011-03-07T19:22:08.722+08:00

The 2nd of January was everyone's last day of vacation.  We walked downtown and along the river to get in some last minute sights.  Here are some pics. Mom & I along the river in front of the business district (CBD). The big buildings of the CBD. Curtis & I at Boat Quay (pronounced key). Stop for lunch. A carve out with greenery on one of the high rises. Mom was very impressed with all the

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-37454193661194242822011-03-05T19:41:00.000+08:002011-03-05T19:41:40.987+08:00

We still had plenty left to do in Singapore at this point and Little India was one place I wanted to introduce my mom and brother to.  India is so different from anywhere else I've been.  At first it all feels like chaos, but once you've been in it a while, it somehow becomes order.  Or at least it no longer feels like chaos.  We did a quick walk up and down the main street, stopping by one of

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-992878536374969132011-03-04T20:05:00.001+08:002011-03-04T20:11:35.583+08:00

We needed a rest after the action packed trip to Malaysia, so New Year's Eve was relatively quiet.  Curtis worked on some school stuff, Mom laid out at the pool reading and I was doing some internet/tv surfing as always.  I had hoped we could cook out on the pool grills for dinner, swim a little and ring in the new year pool side.  But dumb me didn't reserve a grill before-hand and they were all

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-77131025642964723682011-03-03T22:12:00.000+08:002011-03-03T22:12:35.751+08:00

Okay, so it was more like a sabbatical than a break, but I was just a little burned out and got super lazy.  What will I do when I have to take come of someone besides myself?? :)  Good thing that's a ways away. Now...to remember the rest of our days of fun over the holidays.  I left off on Day 7 with some pictures of our two days in the jungle.  Before we move to Day 8, I have to tell about our

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-65534879798211828932011-01-11T22:30:00.000+08:002011-01-11T22:30:48.106+08:00

I've been trying real hard to keep up this daily blogging habit.  However, it ends up happening at night after a long day, which keeps me up until all hours, wake-up to go back at it and the vicious cycle repeats.  So I'm going to take a little break and try not to make it too long because we still have several more days to cover. I know, it doesn't seem like that much effort....but I'm a slow

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-88448728999866846552011-01-11T02:02:00.000+08:002011-01-11T02:02:48.366+08:00

Man this photo and blog editing takes a lot longer than one would think.  I will pay for it when my alarm goes off tomorrow this morning. Here's a fun video with highlights of our two days in the rain forest.  We definitely look like we're living on the bare necessities and it was only one afternoon and the following morning! Enjoy some Jungle Book while you're at it ;).

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-10989056942176019742011-01-10T00:14:00.001+08:002011-01-10T00:55:14.187+08:00

It's Monday now and time to get up early and head to the jungle/rain forest.  We decide to partake of the breakfast buffet at the hotel which had a big international spread and would be our last western food for the next couple of days. We had to go pay for our cabin room and get directions before heading out.  That seemed to take forever.  Then we went to the bus stop, or what we assumed to

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-84332861046243070672011-01-08T23:56:00.000+08:002011-01-08T23:56:30.331+08:00

Today we explored Kuching, after sleeping in a bit.  Tomorrow, we will head out for more exploring, so today was time to relax.  One of the river taxis that would scoot people across the river.  There weren't many tourist activities across the way, so we did not take one.  Probably should have....oh well :). A statue/scuplture in front of a Buddhist temple.  Kuching is known as "cat city" and

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-36570350314678055342011-01-07T23:11:00.001+08:002011-01-07T23:54:07.554+08:00

And then it was Christmas!  Time to give rather than receive, and the gift to my visitors was a trip to Kuching, Malaysia.  I wanted to share a little bit of Asia outside of Singapore.  Because, let's face it, Singapore is like Asia-lite. :)  I say that with great love, because coming to Asia can be scary and Singapore helps newbies ease into it.  I always say, Singapore is the easiest place to

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-42138254597699810012011-01-06T20:34:00.002+08:002011-01-07T00:12:16.788+08:00

Christmas Eve was a day to chillax at the pool, get some presents, do some homework and work and go to church.  Mom and I spent the morning at the pool until our tummies (or at least mine) was growling.  Then, mom couldn't wait to "open gifts".   Thanks for all the goodies!  Clearly I'm a junk food junkie :).  Although my mom tends to go overboard.  I asked for one bag of Butterfinger (there are

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-73926018049862454082011-01-05T21:31:00.002+08:002011-01-07T00:16:08.892+08:00

On our second day, it was time to show off Singapore the easiest way I knew how, tour bus. We picked the cheapest one, did a full loop including some off-bus detours in the business district, Chinatown and the Botanical Gardens.  The day ended with a chili crab dinner with friends and still a bit early but we should soon be done with the jet lag. Curtis and I on one of the many bridges over the

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-21006157237085934462011-01-04T22:43:00.001+08:002011-01-07T00:16:49.857+08:00

I will try to tell the story of my holiday visitors with some pictures of each day. Me & Curtis on Orchard Road - the shopping mecca in Singapore.  It's very decorated for Christmas and all lit up at night.  We did some window shopping and people watching on the way to the grocery store.  Mom in front of one of the new shopping malls in Singapore, Ion.  A bit crazy looking and super confusing

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-90529007191206665132011-01-02T23:26:00.000+08:002011-01-02T23:26:24.917+08:00

Well, I am just home from the airport where I dropped Mom & Curtis (my brother) for their 24 hr journey home.  They leave here 1am Monday morning local time and arrive in Chicago at just 7:30am Monday morning CST.  This time change thing can be a doozy! It has been a great couple of weeks (well 12 days) and while we tried to pack in as much as possible, we also needed our rest! :)  I mean it

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-21420450701544425702010-12-19T14:02:00.000+08:002010-12-19T14:02:01.415+08:00

I have my first ever visitors (non-work related) coming over Christmas for almost two full weeks.  What, oh what, will we do??  I want to be a good host and have been thinking of how we will occupy ourselves.  Generally speaking, I am not known as the most decisive person.  So I have been creating a list of various activities and places to eat (since food is one of the major things to experience

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-16947061991072155612010-12-19T01:27:00.000+08:002010-12-19T01:27:15.771+08:00

It's suppose to be Christmas time but it still doesn't feel like it.  It is light out at 5:30pm.  I have to run my air conditioning at night.  The only ice I have is quickly melting in my drink. I am still shaving my legs because it is not "pants-only" weather (okay - sorry, probably too much info there).  And my decorations are sorely lacking....thanks to the two stockings from last year's

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-30274285564168769042010-11-26T01:26:00.000+08:002010-11-26T01:26:07.777+08:00

Happy Thanksgiving readers!  I hope this finds you comfortable at home with family and friends with wonderful aromas throughout the house.  Then, gorge yourselves and take a well deserved nap :).  Leave those dishes for later.... Or, follow my lead and eat out on Thanksgiving!  I wouldn't really recommend this unless you're outside the U.S.  I mean why wouldn't you want home cooked food?? My

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-12193469962826501652010-11-19T23:11:00.000+08:002010-11-19T23:11:57.597+08:00

So I've only been there twice, but man if you are looking for a great get-away, Bali is it.  I will have to visit again during my stay here.  It has been my only vacation of pure pool-side laying out, reading and sleeping.  I know I've been lazy lately and not keeping up with posts - but here's some pics from my October vacation (I had to put in a couple of the cows from home....those are not in

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-44184283721959395402010-11-01T21:10:00.000+08:002010-11-01T21:10:32.769+08:00

I had a fun last couple of weeks - I was on vacation!  My original vacation plans to India and Thailand fell through about a week before hand, so I decided to go to the Maldives.  Stranded in the middle of the ocean south of India and West of Singapore - each island is its own resort.  Awesome right?? Wouldn't you guess though....it's uber-expensive. I searched for an affordable hotel but

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-11148768290152180512010-10-17T00:24:00.000+08:002010-10-17T00:24:51.454+08:00

This Friday I attended our annual work event and the theme was 'Bling on the Glam!' and my group at work decided to go as stars and paparazzi.  About 10 or so famous people were picked and matched up with team members.  I was first assigned Marilyn Monroe, but there were issues with finding the white dress and a good blond wig (there would be no air vent).  A second option which I thought was

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-63539345598646825002010-10-08T00:33:00.000+08:002010-10-08T00:33:50.903+08:00

In Singapore, I have lost all reality as it relates to the four seasons of the year.  I see everyone's facebook posts about the weather getting colder.  I forgot it was that time of year already.  I mean it's almost Halloween!?  What's up with that?  I still have sunny skies and 90+ degree afternoons.  Here is the thermometer from my kitchen - pretty much looks like this every day.  There is no

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-3529949196286840152010-09-25T01:13:00.000+08:002010-09-25T01:13:59.627+08:00

I had my first racing experience tonight and boy was it LOUD! :)  I got a late start, but that turned out to be a good thing.  I didn't wear quite the right shoes, ended up walking quite a bit and under-estimated the noise from the cars.  I did find my margarita stand :).  I didn't get super good pics, but here are a couple. Tomorrow I will be wearing better shoes; take my better camera; buy

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-77283283517577158032010-09-21T22:00:00.000+08:002010-09-21T22:00:05.275+08:00

I love cake - and the moon is nice too.  So how could I not love mooncakes? I'm not sure of the significance or history around mooncakes - you'll have to wikipedia-it yourself.  What I do know is that they come out this time of year for Autumn Festival.  In the shopping centers there are lots of temporary stands set-up in the middle of the mall with various vendors selling mooncakes.  Last year

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-25780816264673084122010-09-19T21:45:00.000+08:002010-09-19T21:45:48.543+08:00

Saturday was a wonderful day!  I caught up on some much needed sleep and when I awoke, the mail fairy left me a present.  My new Kindle!!  It was in a small little box with only a power cord, which nicely doubles as USB and wall plug-in.  It had some plastic protector sheets on the front and back and I figured the message on them was pre-printed to provide a "fake" screen.  Nope! The instructions

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-74481848005385501002010-09-03T00:22:00.000+08:002010-09-03T00:22:10.733+08:00

The "our" I'm referring to is me and Singapore.  Yep, it quietly snuck by last week...1 year since I arrived in Singapore.  It has definitely gone by too quickly.  I am finding it is so true that if I don't plan, time will pass me by and I won't get anything done.  I'm in the Asia travel hub and I went to only Bali for my personal travel fun.  My travel report card is currently F-.  Hope to add

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-65107408830980759192010-08-22T22:10:00.000+08:002010-08-22T22:10:38.387+08:00

Okay, so I was probably a bit harsh on my last post about the American presence in Singapore :).  At the suggestion of friend, I visited the Team USA website to try and get the rest of the story. The U.S. sent the maximum number of athletes possible.  They were restricted to 70 individuals who could qualify in their individual sports and one girls and one boys team for team events.  This does

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-42150403086812456442010-08-21T20:21:00.001+08:002010-08-21T20:38:01.630+08:00

We're wrapping up day 7 of the Olympics now and one question I am repeatedly asking myself is where are all the Americans?!? They don't seem to be in any of the gold/silver/bronze finishes but also don't seem to be anywhere else either.  Maybe I'm use to seeing only US coverage of US sports? I also don't know how you could be selected for the Youth Olympics or if you had to pay your own way. 

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-84370802891145855492010-08-16T22:25:00.000+08:002010-08-16T22:25:06.500+08:00

A while ago, I entered the "raffle" to be eligible for tickets to the opening ceremonies.  I don't get the sense that the YOG (Youth Olympic Games) are super popular here, so lucky for me, my ticket was drawn.  I bought the cheapest ticket there was.  Seating was first come, first serve. Gates open at 4pm, be in your seat by 7:30 for a 7:45pm start.  That was a long wait and it was raining at 2pm

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-38012994573371005462010-08-16T01:56:00.000+08:002010-08-16T01:56:50.732+08:00

Saturday evening Singapore was host to the first ever Youth Olympic opening ceremonies.  It was a great program and I was surprised how fast five hours rolled by.  Yep, I was there waiting, watching and waiting again for a little over five hours, but would definitely do it again.  I will share more pics and comments later. Here are fireworks from the lighting of the torch (lighthouse) with the

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-3498790475577815542010-08-09T22:49:00.000+08:002010-08-09T22:49:50.853+08:00

Today was Singapore's 45th birthday - I think I mentioned it in a previous post.  There is a parade and show that is put on.  The tickets are a hot item so I opted to enjoy the live televised version.  The parade portion was mainly all the military vehicles that I posted pics of before.  There are spectator stands put up downtown and the parade is really just in front of that area rather than

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-69743326494975445512010-08-01T13:09:00.001+08:002010-08-01T13:09:32.807+08:00

Last night, well early this morning really, was weird.  I woke up to a big storm outside at like 5:30am.  I was still sleepy and took me a little while to figure out what was going on.  I could hear the rain and occasional thunder.  As I was waking up, I rolled over to find my bedroom door wide open.  Not that big of a deal except I specifically closed it shut when I went to bed.  It's happened

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-81564617264247357752010-07-25T21:02:00.000+08:002010-07-25T21:02:38.729+08:00

When it comes to make-up and hair, I'm a pretty low-maintenance gal.  This is demonstrated by the fact that I have waited almost a year before getting my first haircut in Singapore.  I'm not sure why I was so nervous (I don't get highlights or anything), but I was - so it just grew.   Finally this weekend, I decided it was time.  I had been scoping out places every time I am out and about, and I

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-29171071489544181392010-07-24T00:22:00.000+08:002010-07-24T00:22:12.213+08:00

Here is the thermometer in my kitchen.  It pretty much always looks like this, sometimes a little less humid.  I do have air and the rest of the apartment is cooler - the kitchen is kinda blocked off and there's a huge gap under the door to the outdoor utility area.  I have acclimated.  It helps that I don't really spend time in the kitchen. Crazy talons waiting with me at the bus. You should

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-90636871501569770532010-07-22T00:06:00.000+08:002010-07-22T00:06:44.141+08:00

I realize I've been very slow in posting new updates the past few months.  The truth is I'm just burnt out and have been very lazy lately - more so than usual.  I'll try to have some more fun, entertaining posts in the near future.  ;) In the meantime, I thought I would share a little bit about where I spend my weekdays. Here's my cube at the office.  I took this quite a while ago before I let

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-32610512304404693752010-07-12T23:58:00.000+08:002010-07-12T23:58:17.807+08:00

(pic courtesy of www.ylje.com) Singapore is not a sports-crazed country.  Well maybe, but not any sports usually followed back home.  No NFL, no baseball except the kids leagues, no basketball free agents clogging up the media to announce their next team (or any March Madness for that matter) and definitely no where for the Stanely Cup champions to play.  Sports that are enjoyed - tennis courts

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-69058047081881277902010-07-05T21:47:00.000+08:002010-07-05T21:47:35.990+08:00

Okay - I'm a bit late, but did not forget.  There is no 4th of July celebration per se (I took Friday off to ensure my own 3-day weekend).  However, in August, Singapore celebrates their National Day.  On 9 August 1965, Singapore gained its independence.  It is so weird to think my new home is so young. I understand that National Day is heavily celebrated here.  There is a big parade and show

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-66762650105575198662010-06-25T19:44:00.000+08:002010-06-25T19:44:24.634+08:00

Summer is here, but you would never know it.  The weather today is pretty much the same as yesterday, same as last week, last month, even six months ago :).  But I've gotten a kick of color in me on my recent shopping sprees.  Here are some of my fun new purchases. Okay, so this looks a bit muumuu-esque, but I was drawn to the colors and design.  If nothing else, it is a perfect swimsuit

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-76113197490374871162010-06-22T22:40:00.000+08:002010-06-22T22:40:38.209+08:00

My moving watching experiences are definitely a little different here in Singapore.  At home in the U.S., I did not go to the movies very often.  I was protesting the cost for the comfort you get at the theater v. the amount to rent/buy and watch at home.  I don't really enjoy sharing my movies with a whole lot of other people, my Dad rubbed off in me that way ("Shhh!").  My favorite is to get

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-48463279876562547372010-06-06T13:27:00.000+08:002010-06-06T13:27:32.762+08:00

I went to make some lunch today and was rinsing something off under the faucet when I saw a movement out of the corner of my eye.  AHH! I looked down and I had a friendly critter in a glass I'd left in the sink.  Maybe he liked the mini pool which had accumulated from splashes of water from the faucet? Freaked me out at first - but he just remained.  The gecko is resident in my kitchen and

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-29146586923339384842010-06-04T21:25:00.000+08:002010-06-04T21:25:41.302+08:00

How often do you have a $100 bill laying around or burning a hole in your pocket?  The stars were aligned for me is all I can say.  With no car here, figuring out how to get my work clothes dry cleaned has been an item on the "to-do" list for a while.  I tend to stock pile and then clean all at once (procrastination is the story of my life).  Carrying a load of clothes from my car in Peoria to

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-87307488251634059932010-05-31T22:17:00.001+08:002010-06-02T00:37:04.989+08:00

Wedding Bells! Spring-time heading into summer usually is the kick-off to the wedding season. How many are you invited to in the next 6-9 months? No one has 5+; My summer weekends are accounted for! Two people have 4-5; A little crazy, but still able to book some personal time for fun. No one has 2-3; A perfect amount of time to catch up with family and friends you don't often see.Two people have

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-2802142265497751242010-05-25T21:40:00.000+08:002010-05-25T21:40:01.001+08:00

I've had a few interesting food encounters lastely.  Last week I saw veggie noodles on the menu and thought I would give them a try.  Not sure what they're made out of, but they taste like normal noodles only neon green. :)  One condiment I've grown to love is the Asian equivalent to the crouton/cracker. They are little fishes (at least I assume they are), baked/fried or something. Can you see

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-78689511750674299632010-05-23T13:00:00.000+08:002010-05-23T13:00:59.796+08:00

A couple of weeks ago I participated in a 5.6K run (~3.5 miles), the JP Morgan Chase & Co. Corporate Challenge.  While it was officially a run, there were plenty of walkers, including myself.  I had good intentions of training for a month+ when I first signed up.  But weeks kept going by, I got home late from work and was not motivated to start running.  A few years ago I got into running for

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-31468900552762862802010-05-19T23:50:00.000+08:002010-05-19T23:50:58.372+08:00

Last Thursday was my birthday.  Work is still pretty busy.  So when my mom called at 6:45am, I was just hitting snooze and opted not to answer.  Lucky I didn't because I was tired and grouchy and she was happy, excited and singing me Happy Birthday.  I might have been mean :).  And when my dad and sister called in the morning the U.S. time (evening here), I was still at the office.  I knew this

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-12503653912757006802010-05-09T14:41:00.000+08:002010-05-09T14:41:28.036+08:00

What seafood do you like? I was suprised to find that the closest item of seafood to get everyone's praises was crab/lobster (4 out of 5).  I thought shrimp (prawns) may win everyone over (3 out of 5).  I am a big fan of crab and lobster and one dish they are famous for in Singapore is the Chili Crab!  I've had it on a few occasions.  The whole crab is cooked in this kind of sweet and spicy

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-24508047658597221522010-05-06T22:14:00.000+08:002010-05-06T22:14:29.364+08:00

That is queue as in "Q".  It's everywhere here in Singapore and it simply means line up.  It helps things to be efficient here.  For all the people, at least I can say that people generally follows the rules of lining up and generally you don't have the 'cutters'.  But even when you do, they get called out!  I was at lunch one day and in line at the drink area (drinks are sold from a separate

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-1276565333707576622010-05-01T21:41:00.000+08:002010-05-01T21:41:16.740+08:00

Last night I went prawning (i.e. fishing for prawns).  It was a work event.  We have a small group and we try to do group outings every now and then.  I had heard about prawning from another American who's here and she tried it earlier in the year (Asian Red Head).  I was worried about being hungry, but luckily food was served first and the prawning was the activity. I forgot my camera and

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-49220921470754285052010-04-29T21:09:00.000+08:002010-04-29T21:09:25.522+08:00

I am a TV-loving couch potato.  I think most of you probably already know this :).  While my vacations are planned and active, my home life is lazy and boring.  I love my TV (meaning actual TV shows, not TV set) and have been planning to get a new set since I moved here and my apartment was furnished with an older, 29" tube TV.  So heavy to move around, but otherwise really nothing wrong with it,

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-86389907811104607252010-04-27T22:39:00.000+08:002010-04-27T22:39:38.530+08:00

Which season do you enjoy most?!? Nobody likes Hot & Steamy Summer Nobody likes Cold & Snowy Winter 2 people enjoy Rainy & Green Spring 6 people enjoy Cool & Golden Autumn ...and 1 person enjoys the even temperatures year-round Lately it's been storming here big time.  Huge rolls of thunder.  Some lightning and dark skies during the day.  It's kinda like spring storms back home but without the

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-17811524653090923562010-04-24T23:36:00.000+08:002010-04-24T23:36:32.540+08:00

Every girl/woman reading this has those pair of jeans or shorts, skirt or dress that they keep tucked in the closet or drawer and just can't be thrown out because ONE DAY they will fit into them again!  :) I've got a few of these items myself.  It's hard for me to throw stuff out in the first place, much less something with an emotional attachment.  I especially tend to fall in love with

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-9392362769590815282010-04-21T23:51:00.000+08:002010-04-21T23:51:53.789+08:00

Did anyone watch a week or two ago?? The amazing race came to Singapore!  If I had known, I totally would have run across screen or something.  Fun fact: Do you know that I applied to be on the Amazing Race?  Yep - no call back.  It was my friend Sara and I.  Maybe because we made our audition tape after a night of sleeping in the Gatwick airport after a couple weeks trodding around Eastern

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-49835665593369252582010-04-09T22:42:00.002+08:002010-04-09T22:48:25.453+08:00

You can love 'em or hate 'em but I've been thinking about them a lot since my move.  I'm not even sure how to organize my thoughts, so here's a bit of stream of consciousness. What shoes are they wearing? One of the immediate questions that goes through my head. It's instinctive and don't always realize I'm doing it. But I always notice fairly quickly what shoes people wear and I'll remember

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-78346407278704062002010-04-08T01:41:00.000+08:002010-04-08T01:41:16.551+08:00

Do you like to gamble?  It seems that I'm with the majority and realize it can be fun but don't expect to win a lot.  Breakdown of the results: No way, I have a hard enough time saving my money. Don't need to risk it. 1 (11%) Every once in a while, but it's a sunk cost - I know I'm going to lose it. 4 (44%) It's good for a big weekend out and I've come out a couple hundred ahead. 2 (22%) Love

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-56619071444311669612010-04-06T23:35:00.000+08:002010-04-06T23:35:39.804+08:00

I've mentioned that a co-worker was in town recently.  This provided a good opportunity to explore some new restaurants/foods.  Unfortunately, I did not bring my camera along.  I've tried to nab other people's pics to provide some visuals. Sudanese We shared a set lunch.  It's quite common to order dishes here and share as a group. You get your own plate and then just take what you want.  Our

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-3145149599073031652010-04-04T14:27:00.000+08:002010-04-04T14:27:41.974+08:00

>> He has risen. >> He has risen indeed! These are the words I am usually greeted with around 6:30am on Easter Sunday morning. Today I made my first visit to church in Singapore.  I woke up late, forgot my bus/train card and it was raining.  So I wasn't sure I would get there.  But God must have really wanted me to go because a taxi came by at just the last minute (during rain it can be very

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-76073034024230781862010-04-02T23:03:00.000+08:002010-04-02T23:03:44.152+08:00

Remember my miraculous milk finding??  Milk....it does a body good!  Well as quick as it came, it has disappeared.  I have repeatedly looked at the grocery stores I frequent with no luck.  Today I visited a couple others along Orchard Road, which is the big tourist/expat magnet, also with no luck.  The best I can do is Wisconsin Organic milk which is a hurtful S$9 per quart.  But what else is a

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-84721121972167822602010-03-31T00:41:00.000+08:002010-03-31T00:41:42.508+08:00

It is constantly summer here, ranging from 80-90 degrees. I never need to listen to the weather.  I do need to take an umbrella occasionally, but even if I don't, I can usually stay dry under all the covered walkways.  So I've always found it odd that anyone could get sick in Singapore.  I mean how many of us get a cold or the flu during summer, right?  Well Monday last week I had something in

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-87031358140872514482010-03-27T12:40:00.000+08:002010-03-27T12:40:44.642+08:00

There is something very new and somewhat controversial going on in Singapore.  Two casinos are opening up!  Actually one already opened in February and the other one is on its way.  They have been building and working on these since I first came to Singapore back in early 2008, so it's interesting to have seen the progress.  The interior of Resorts World Sentosa's casino in Singapore. Photo:

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-90236040562169633682010-03-23T00:54:00.000+08:002010-03-23T00:54:54.189+08:00

I had a co-worker visit me last week on a business trip.  It was great to have a dinner buddy :).  So we tried some new restaurants.  But more to come on that post.  I got a new phone, with a camera and I can't figure out yet how to get my pictures off.  In the meantime... Some quick randomness Signing up for something online in Singapore, I got to pick out the necessary "security question". 

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-12951619973465337252010-03-10T02:32:00.000+08:002010-03-10T02:32:15.615+08:00

I am back home from the States and have been delaying any posts because I'm just not so sure how I feel about it. Everyone said the first 4 to 6 months would be the hardest...wrong. I actually got through those fairly well and without too much homesickness. (Yes - I'm through 6 months already!) Going back home in Feb was wonderful to see everyone, feel the same old routine, know what was going

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-14127793603943225192010-02-11T22:28:00.000+08:002010-02-11T22:28:54.067+08:00

Chinese New Year is just around the corner - I think Sunday and Monday this week.  Singapore is like 80% ethnic Chinese so this is a big deal.  I still don't know too much about the holiday, but I do know it is the one time of year when families travel back to see their parents and relatives.  Well, I get to make my own pilgramage back to the States for Chinese New Year :). I'm going home for

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-17065178572896202912010-02-07T20:57:00.000+08:002010-02-07T20:57:54.292+08:00

One thing I've found in my travels over the years, is that most big cities you visit will have some golden arches to make you feel at home - yes, McDonald's.  Maybe not the thing we as Americans want to be known for, but it's there.  While I usually try to avoid American fast-food in order to experience more local options;  it's funny how each Mickey D's has some special touches for the locals (

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-40735987596250027462010-01-24T14:33:00.000+08:002010-01-24T14:33:08.983+08:00

At home, I subscribed to three magazines: National Geographic Traveler, Weight Watchers and The Economist.  (replica pic from the article discussed below) I discovered The Economist a couple of years ago and fell in love - well love is a strong word I suppose.  But it is the most enjoyable way in which I get the news.  It's quite expensive though and so is a bit of a treat (in Singapore S$15

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-55982248883345800682010-01-19T23:00:00.001+08:002010-01-23T11:28:19.810+08:00

Alas, there is no turning of leaves or light frost in the morning.  The season I am referring to is "peak period", "busy season", the "audit zone". :)  Now some of you may be thinking...oh yes! the year is over and it's time to prepare taxes.  But I actually don't work on taxes - and with my moving abroad, this year (and for the next few) work is even helping me preparing my returns.  I am very

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-52787349507623495852010-01-14T22:52:00.001+08:002010-01-14T22:54:47.575+08:00

I've talked about my bus rides and walking, but taxis are another great way to get around town and they can be fairly cheap, especially when sharing.  For work, many people in my office take them.  However, even though they think I'm nuts, I find myself usually opting for a public transport option if available and I can manage the time.  See which you would prefer based on my pros and cons

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-78779607941823087852010-01-08T23:20:00.000+08:002010-01-08T23:20:24.976+08:00

I definitely need to plan another trip back to Bali!   The resort I stayed at was very nice - quiet and private which was what I wanted.  But it also meant I was pretty far from anywhere else on the island.  I think there would be a lot of fun things to get out and do on the island.  So, my next trip will be a more active one for sure.  And this time I'll read ahead of time so I have a plan. I

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-32504953562270422832010-01-06T22:19:00.000+08:002010-01-06T22:19:22.699+08:00

And I'm not even talking about my Skype phone to call over the internet or my air conditioners that turn on and off at the click of the remote.  I'm talking about refrigeration technology! Some of you may be aware that the fridge here when I moved in was not so hot (or rather not so cool).  It wasn't working well - probably a couple of months ago now - and the repairman came.  He "fixed" it. 

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-15757080508118251992010-01-03T00:07:00.000+08:002010-01-03T00:07:22.032+08:00

Earlier this week, on Monday night, I left for Bali, Indonesia.  I did not take my computer and thus have not blogged for a while.  I've been home a couple of days now, but find myself being pretty lazy and still on vacation :).  Thus, no blog updates.  Here's a quick overview of the trip and I'll try to post more details later. While I had heard of Bali, I did not really know where it was.  So,

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-84986584776079052082009-12-27T17:42:00.000+08:002009-12-27T17:42:49.470+08:00

Apparently YouTube did not like the song I added to the end of my previous Christmas video - copyright issues - and muted it.  Guess I need permission to use others' songs.  So, I've now removed all non-original content and re-posted.  The link below should work.  Oh - and seems I should have a new refrigerator on 8 January! It will be bigger and with three doors. I'm curious to see it.  The

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-43452383753080283472009-12-25T17:58:00.000+08:002009-12-25T17:58:46.059+08:00

I hope when everyone wakes up tomorrow morning they have a wonderful Christmas Day with those they love.  I couldn't be at home with my family this year, but I still feel very, very loved.  Thank you to everyone for their Christmas wishes!! I know Christmas is not about the presents, but as I mentioned, Santa did stop by Singapore.  Since I couldn't be home to share it with everyone, I thought I

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-64605388311556695402009-12-24T22:09:00.000+08:002009-12-24T22:09:19.974+08:00

...and all through Singapore people continued to shop :).  Well I was only out until ~7:30, but there were plenty of people still out and about.  It's now 10:00 though, so Santa should be coming soon. My day was good.  I got to sleep in and wake up nice and refreshed.  Unfortunately, it was rainy outside.  I checked out the moving listings and the new Sherlock Holmes movie was playing at 10:45.

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-19130106885898886922009-12-22T21:51:00.001+08:002009-12-22T21:52:23.042+08:00

BAM!  I found it!!  Some American milk.  All thank you to another blog that I often check, written by a fellow expat in Singapore, Fish Tale.  Since my trip to Singapore last spring, I became painfully aware of the lack of American milk - or even something that tastes close to American milk.  I don't know how to explain it but the milk here is just a little off.  I did find a brand that I

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892129543692479389.post-55795847773360871022009-12-19T22:27:00.000+08:002009-12-19T22:27:31.855+08:00

I was buying cheese and thought I'd get everyone's opinion.  For six of you who responded, some of the favorite cheeses are: Swiss-4, Cheddar-4, Provolone-4, Monterey Jack-4, Muenster-3, Mozzarella-2, Feta-2, Brie-1 and Bleu cheese-1.  I did not vote on the above, but usually buy swiss at the store for sandwiches.  I am not afraid to admit that I love Kraft singles back home (even though it got

LMChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04949444234034467160noreply@blogger.com2