The last couple of days in our apartment went well. I have moved in and out of apartments a lot in my life but never had to go by such strict guidelines. Here in the US when I would move out of an apartment all I had to do was move my stuff out and clean the apartment top to bottom.
In Singapore we had to go by what the contract said. We had to get our air conditioning units cleaned one last time, get the curtains dry cleaned and hire a cleaning person to clean out the apartment. We checked our contract and it did not state that we had to get the curtains dry cleaned. This seemed to be a hot button issue. It is expected that you get this done, even if the contract does not say it. I have always gone by what the contract says so we didn't do it and thankfully it wasn't a huge issue to deal with.
After our international movers came to take our things Dustin and I got to cleaning. I will tell you, it's a lot easier to clean an apartment when it's completely empty. Having all that furniture there was kind of a pain but we did it. We cleaned that apartment to the highest standards. After cleaning up and packing our things we headed to the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. This was where we stayed for our last night in Singapore.
I have been up to the observation deck and seen the mall attached to it and I will tell you it's an amazing building. Dustin and I actually watched the show "Build it Bigger" on the Marina Bay Sands and really did learn a lot about the building. (I suggest you watch it, it's on you tube in six mini episodes). We checked in and went to our room. We were on the 15th floor and were able to have a great view of the bay and the city. Once we unloaded we decided to go to the famous pool. This pool is only for guests and the only way you can see the pool if you're not a hotel guest is to go to the club at the top that is called Ku De Ta (Could have spelled that wrong). Because you can't see it from the observation deck side, Dustin and I have only just seen pictures online.
Once we got up there I was blown away at the view. The pool was an infinity edge pool to a view of the city and the bay. It was beautiful. We walked around and noticed that the pool has loungers in the pool and they have an area of the pool that is for adults only. Dustin and I didn't think they would enforce it but I till you what they did. The lifeguards were on top of their game! We got some drinks and went in the pool and got some beautiful pictures.
After that we went back to the room where we got something to eat and just enjoyed the room. Dustin had to work the next day and I had to go back to our apartment to do last minute sweeping/dusting and turn over the apartment.
The next day I went to the apartment and was amazed at how much dust was in there. Dustin and I must have swept that place ten times before I came back and same goes with dusting. I cleaned and then turned over the apartment. We were lucky that we didn't run into any problems and it looked like we were going to get our deposit back in full. (this is also something that expats deal with, most don't get their deposit back)
I went back to the hotel and was planning on meeting up with my friend Lucy to hang by the pool. There were some issues because her friends Holly and Dave had just gotten back into the country but we worked it out and we all sat by the pool and had a great time. It was the perfect way to end our year in Singapore, We missed Dustin but at least he was able to get to see the pool the night before.
When it was time for them to go I got really sad. I hadn't said goodbye to Lucy because I knew I was going to see her the day I left for home. I was so sad and got choked up but held strong. I went back into the room and took a shower, packed and got things ready so when Dustin got back from work we could go to the airport.
We took a free shuttle to the airport, got our things checked in and went to the lounge. It didn't seem like we were leaving for good. I felt like we were going to be back in the country really soon. Our flight didn't leave until 11:55pm and when we got on the plane I was tired. I know Dustin was because he had been feeling like he was going to get a cold. He went to sleep and I was up, I was a big ball of nerves and excitement.
Our flight from Singapore to Germany was 12 hours and I probably only slept four. Once we landed we had to get off the plane, go though security and get back on the same plane (don't know why we just had to) Because the security line was so long, once we got to our gate we only had to wait five minutes after we got picked for a random security check. Once back on the plane I tried to sleep but it didn't come easily. There were a lot of men on the plane and one had bad gas and a lot of them were snoring. I had to get ear plugs and hope for the best. I slept for about three hours on that trip because when we were over Iceland we hit really bad turbulence. It wasn't for 5 minutes either, it was for 45 minutes. The plane shook and dropped and I really thought I was going to throw up. I hate turbulence anyways so this was just giving me a lot of anxiety. Dustin was sleeping because he had taken cold medication.
Once we got past that I was fine but was unable to sleep very well. Once we landed at JFK in NYC I was ready to be home already. We got though customs and then had to go to a different terminal and recheck our bags because Singapore Airlines didn't put us through all the way to DC. I wouldn't complain about it much but honestly it was a joke because of how much luggage we had. Once we were though security again we went to our gate. We waited there what seemed like forever! I was just ready to be home. It was the longest trip yet and I was exhausted.
Once on the plane, Dustin slept and of course I did not. From take off to landing it was only a 45 minute trip. We got our bags and into a cab to go to Dustin's work. We went there because our friend/roommate Joe was picking us up and we didn't want him to run into traffic considering it was rush hour. I will tell you what, Cabs are expensive here! I have been spoiled living in Singapore.
Once we got to Dustin's office I was relived. We were almost home. We talked with some friends and then went home. Once home our neighbors came over to give us a warm welcome before we went inside. After that we rushed in to say hi to Bandit. He was so happy to see us, his tail (nubben) was going so fast and he was sniffing and just all around happy to see us.
After we got our stuff in the house we had some beers and hung out. We had pizza for dinner and actually stayed up till about 1am. I was amazed how late we stayed up but it was such a fun time with neighbors and friends.
I still don't feel at home yet because there is still lots of unpacking and of course I have to get a job. I am sure I will feel at home once I get back to work.
I am so thankful that we took the opportunity to relocate and live in Singapore for a year. I definitely know that it has changed me. I look at things differently and appreciate a lot more than I have ever before. I am so glad Dustin and I decided to take the jump. We made so many friends and had so many adventures. Thank you all for welcoming us into your hearts. We love you all and miss you TONS. We can't wait to see you all whenever we do meet up again (because we will, no matter where in the world!). Xo
Saturday, 3 November 2012
Monday, 1 October 2012
Last few weeks...
October 16th 11:55pm, that is the day we leave Singapore to move back home.
When we were gearing up to move here a year ago we had so much to do, I felt overwhelmed at times. This time around, not so much. Dustin and I have to clean up the place, and in a week the international movers are coming but we have so little stuff to ship over (compared to if we would have had furniture) that I am not sweating the small stuff. Yes, we have to get the electric and stuff turned off but lucky for us, the company NCompass is helping us with all of it. Our last night in our apartment is the 14th. We will be cleaning it up and getting ready to turn it over. Because this is before we leave we had to get a hotel. We looked at some and realized that we will never get a chance to stay at Marina Bay Sands ever again so we figured we'd give it a go. I am very excited about it, I get to finally see the pool (there is the observation deck where people pay 20 bucks to go up and see all of Singapore, the pool is blocked to the public, can't wait to see what it's like) and really figure out what the hotel is really like, I am not standing on the outside looking in, wondering what it would be like to stay there for just one night. Again, I am blessed. Trust me, I never take this life for granted.
My last day at RDA is tomorrow (October 3rd) and I am truly sad to leave all of my wonderful friends there. I am also going to miss teaching the kids and seeing them light up every time they see the horses. Thank you all at RDA for doing what you do. Thank you for opening your hearts and letting me in as a fellow volunteer. I loved what I did with you all and learned a lot from you. I wish you all the best in the next chapters of your lives. I hope we stay in touch via facebook and or email. I will truly miss you all and our Wednesday mornings together.
When I first moved here I was excited to move home, I was counting down the days. The first couple of months went by so slowly. But honestly over those months and the ones after I got the honor of meeting some really awesome people. Like I have said before, this move home is bittersweet. I can't wait to get home to cooler weather, friends and family but honestly, I wish we could take all of our friends here in Singapore and move them home with us. The next couple of weeks we have Will's birthday party to attend (Happy Birthday Buddy) and then our goodbye party. In between we have to say goodbye to friends who can't make it to our last weekend in Singapore get together. I don't look forward to it. This is why the last couple of weekends we have been taking advantage of hanging out with our friends. The more we get to see them before we leave the better.
I am not going to get all sappy right now, that I will save for the last blog about Singapore and for our going away get together. These next two weeks are going to be busy with cleaning, packing and saying goodbye. This may be a reason why when I write about the last day in Singapore it may be when I am home in the states, but we shall see.
Thanks for reading, Until next time!
When we were gearing up to move here a year ago we had so much to do, I felt overwhelmed at times. This time around, not so much. Dustin and I have to clean up the place, and in a week the international movers are coming but we have so little stuff to ship over (compared to if we would have had furniture) that I am not sweating the small stuff. Yes, we have to get the electric and stuff turned off but lucky for us, the company NCompass is helping us with all of it. Our last night in our apartment is the 14th. We will be cleaning it up and getting ready to turn it over. Because this is before we leave we had to get a hotel. We looked at some and realized that we will never get a chance to stay at Marina Bay Sands ever again so we figured we'd give it a go. I am very excited about it, I get to finally see the pool (there is the observation deck where people pay 20 bucks to go up and see all of Singapore, the pool is blocked to the public, can't wait to see what it's like) and really figure out what the hotel is really like, I am not standing on the outside looking in, wondering what it would be like to stay there for just one night. Again, I am blessed. Trust me, I never take this life for granted.
My last day at RDA is tomorrow (October 3rd) and I am truly sad to leave all of my wonderful friends there. I am also going to miss teaching the kids and seeing them light up every time they see the horses. Thank you all at RDA for doing what you do. Thank you for opening your hearts and letting me in as a fellow volunteer. I loved what I did with you all and learned a lot from you. I wish you all the best in the next chapters of your lives. I hope we stay in touch via facebook and or email. I will truly miss you all and our Wednesday mornings together.
When I first moved here I was excited to move home, I was counting down the days. The first couple of months went by so slowly. But honestly over those months and the ones after I got the honor of meeting some really awesome people. Like I have said before, this move home is bittersweet. I can't wait to get home to cooler weather, friends and family but honestly, I wish we could take all of our friends here in Singapore and move them home with us. The next couple of weeks we have Will's birthday party to attend (Happy Birthday Buddy) and then our goodbye party. In between we have to say goodbye to friends who can't make it to our last weekend in Singapore get together. I don't look forward to it. This is why the last couple of weekends we have been taking advantage of hanging out with our friends. The more we get to see them before we leave the better.
I am not going to get all sappy right now, that I will save for the last blog about Singapore and for our going away get together. These next two weeks are going to be busy with cleaning, packing and saying goodbye. This may be a reason why when I write about the last day in Singapore it may be when I am home in the states, but we shall see.
Thanks for reading, Until next time!
Friday, 28 September 2012
Forumla One Weekend in Singapore!
As most of you know, Dustin and I attended the Formula One races this year here in Singapore. We went all three days. This was our last 'big to do' before we moved home. We moved here last year five days before the F1 races so we were unable to get tickets for obvious reasons. Last year it was so cool just to go to the bar and watch the race while we heard the cars zoom by.
This year we got Zone Four walk about tickets. This means that we didn't get seats but we could walk around and be up next to the fence (if we were there early enough) on the track. This also permitted us to go to all the concerts that were being held over the weekend. The two big head liners were Maroon 5 and Katy Perry. We also got to see Bannanarama and the Proclaimers.We were also lucky that Zone 4 also had a Harry's bar so we were able to get discount drinks while we were hanging out all day.
Dustin and I were really looking forward to the weekend. We were also happy to know that most of our friends were going to be there at some point during the weekend (not everyone got tickets for all three days).
The first night of practice races Dustin and I were able to get great space standing next to the track because not a lot of people were there compared to how many I thought there were going to be there. The cars were fast and loud. That night there wasn't anyone playing that we wanted to see so around 8pm we left and met up with friends at Harry's Boat Quay. We ended the night knowing who we were going to see and hopefully meet up with the next day.
Saturday practice rounds and qualifying rounds for the races. We got there a little early so we walked around to see what was what and ran into some friends along the way. We got some good views of the race and had a great time. Maroon 5 was going on at 11 so we were there awhile. Once the qualifying race was done we all geared up to go to the concert. We were far back on the field but we were with friends, dancing, singing and having a great time. We met up with friends after the concert and continued to have a great time.
Sunday was the final race. We saw some bands and at 8pm we got a good spot to see the start and then planned to go to where a big tv was was playing the race. During the race we ate and stood chatting with friends. It was long but a great race, we even got to see a crash. After the checkered flag was waved fireworks were set off over the bay. It was a great thing to see. Dustin and I have seen fireworks here but it was from our apartment because we have the direct view of Marina Bay.
After the fireworks we ventured over to the field where we saw Katy Perry. She really did put on a great show, and yes she sang Fireworks. Again we were with our friends dancing and singing but we didn't stay out too late because Dustin had to work the next day and I had to go to RDA.
The entire weekend was unforgettable. The cars were so loud we had to wear earplugs. The shows and the atmosphere was wonderful. I am so happy that we decided to get tickets and go. Thank you to all our friends who met up with us and partied, we had a great time.
This year we got Zone Four walk about tickets. This means that we didn't get seats but we could walk around and be up next to the fence (if we were there early enough) on the track. This also permitted us to go to all the concerts that were being held over the weekend. The two big head liners were Maroon 5 and Katy Perry. We also got to see Bannanarama and the Proclaimers.We were also lucky that Zone 4 also had a Harry's bar so we were able to get discount drinks while we were hanging out all day.
Dustin and I were really looking forward to the weekend. We were also happy to know that most of our friends were going to be there at some point during the weekend (not everyone got tickets for all three days).
The first night of practice races Dustin and I were able to get great space standing next to the track because not a lot of people were there compared to how many I thought there were going to be there. The cars were fast and loud. That night there wasn't anyone playing that we wanted to see so around 8pm we left and met up with friends at Harry's Boat Quay. We ended the night knowing who we were going to see and hopefully meet up with the next day.
Saturday practice rounds and qualifying rounds for the races. We got there a little early so we walked around to see what was what and ran into some friends along the way. We got some good views of the race and had a great time. Maroon 5 was going on at 11 so we were there awhile. Once the qualifying race was done we all geared up to go to the concert. We were far back on the field but we were with friends, dancing, singing and having a great time. We met up with friends after the concert and continued to have a great time.
Sunday was the final race. We saw some bands and at 8pm we got a good spot to see the start and then planned to go to where a big tv was was playing the race. During the race we ate and stood chatting with friends. It was long but a great race, we even got to see a crash. After the checkered flag was waved fireworks were set off over the bay. It was a great thing to see. Dustin and I have seen fireworks here but it was from our apartment because we have the direct view of Marina Bay.
After the fireworks we ventured over to the field where we saw Katy Perry. She really did put on a great show, and yes she sang Fireworks. Again we were with our friends dancing and singing but we didn't stay out too late because Dustin had to work the next day and I had to go to RDA.
The entire weekend was unforgettable. The cars were so loud we had to wear earplugs. The shows and the atmosphere was wonderful. I am so happy that we decided to get tickets and go. Thank you to all our friends who met up with us and partied, we had a great time.
Thursday, 30 August 2012
Visit Home and our WEDDING DAY :)
July 9th was when I flew home. I was worked up because I had a lot on my mind and I hate flying long distances by myself and this was a very long distance flight. The flight path was different than the one we took when we got here. The flight path that I took was going to JFK, meaning I was flying from here to Germany, Germany to JFK and JFK to Dulles.
The flight was great because I was flying Singapore Air, Business class. The food was wonderful and the ride was smooth. When we landed in Germany I had to get off the plane (even though I was getting back on the same plane in an hourish, oh well) and go though security then I had to wait for an hour and then fly seven hours to New York. After some more food and sleep I was finally on US soil. I got off the plane and walked very fast to the customs counter because I didn't want to wait very long in line (I get have the best waiting skills). The thing I found funny was that when we were getting ready to get off the plane, they announced that no one was allowed on their cellphones until after they got out of customs. I have never heard of that. So once I got out I went to the baggage clam to get my bag. I tried to use my phone but they had a jammer and I wasn't able to call out until I was literally out of the customs area.
I rechecked my bag and then headed to the connecting flight gate. I made my phone calls and then decided to get a beer. When the guy rang me up for a 9 dollar pint I was excited! Finally, cheap beer. Now I realize that isn't cheap to all of my friends back home in the US, but it's a lot more expensive in Singapore. When the guy saw my excitement I explained that I hadn't had a blue moon in ten months and that it was cheap compared to what I was use to paying.
My next stop was the gift/snack shop. I got some snacks but I also got GUM! I was so excited that I started ripping the package open before I paid for it and started to chew it. People thought I was crazy, especially the woman ringing me up. I then had to explain that I was living in a country where gum chewing is ILLEGAL, which isn't the greatest for me because I am an avid gum chewer.
My flight got pushed back and honestly I was starting to go crazy because all I wanted to do was just go home. Thankfully my flight from NY to DC was only forty five minutes. Once I landed I made my way to baggage clam and picked it up and then texted Jason because he was the one picking me up. Once I got outside and saw his car I got really excited, I literally was crying because I was home! I couldn't wait to get home and see my dog and just see everyone.
Once I got home I ran inside to see my Bandit boy. He sniffed and then went crazy with being in my face and giving me kisses. When Joe walked in I gave him the biggest hug and apparently Bandit wasn't done welcoming me home because he jumped up and wouldn't get down till I stopped hugging Joe.
I will tell you this, I didn't stop running from the day I got home till about the day after our wedding. I had no time for jet lag because I was facing a lot of stuff to deal with. My car was in the shop due to being in an accident four months before. I went to make coffee and realized that there was mouse turds EVERYWHERE in the lower cabinets of our kitchen and under our stove. Now mind you, Joe and Krystal (the people who live at our house) cleaned before I came home so this happened with in a couple of days and it looked like it was there for awhile. It was not only there, but in the storage area under the stairs and then also in the storage area in the bathroom rough in. there was also tons under our bed and in our closet.
We had to toss out so much stuff, I am assuming it was around 1500 dollars. I tossed half my shoes and Dustin tossed all of his. Most Halloween decorations got destroyed and other things like bags and other things. Mind you when I found all of this out, we had about two weeks till we had people in our house for the rehearsal dinner. I am so thankful for our neighbors and for Joe and Krystal because they helped out with A LOT. They helped me clean up and wipe down everything that was salvageable from the mouse damage.
I also had my best friends wedding to attend (Mouse it was a beautiful wedding) four days after I landed, Jet lagged and tired of mouse turds I made it and had such a great time. I had to tie up last minute things for the wedding, have my parties and make sure things were good to go. Weeks went by, Dustin came home and we met our new neighbors, whom we are so thankful they all moved in because now we have more friends who are just a walk away. My parties were amazing and my bridesmaids were too. They had to put up with a lot from me, thanks girls for being so wonderful. I also want to thank my friends who helped me put last minute holes in mason jars for the centerpieces and helping put rocks and candles in the jars as well. Without your help, it wouldn't have gotten done as nicely.
The rehearsal dinner was amazing and I was so excited for the wedding. The night before I stayed at the ski lodge with my best friend and was so happy to have her there, Em, thanks for staying with me! The next day I woke up early and ate a big breakfast. I was told if I didn't eat I would pass out so I ate. Plus if you know me, you know that when I don't eat and am starving, I get cranky and I start to lash out at people around me. My great friend Brenna was so wonderful, she was the one who did my hair, Emily's hair and my sisters hair. (thanks again darling, your work is amazing) I was also blessed to have my RI girls come and sit with me while I was getting my hair done. It was so awesome that you girls came to visit with me and stay with me and feeding me around lunch time :)
2:30 was when the pictures were starting. Dustin and I decided to see each other before the wedding because we didn't want to waste time after the ceremony with a bunch of pictures that would cut into our dance time later. It was so hot but we made it though the pictures and headed to the venue. My brother in law was presiding over the wedding and he did such a wonderful job. Once we got upstairs and it was just me and my dad I was getting nervous and more excited. Dad walked me down the stairs and we headed to the aisle. As I was walking I couldn't look anywhere but at Dustin (so I wouldn't cry). The Ceremony was short and sweet and we were married. After pictures it was party time. We were downstairs waiting to be introduced while cocktail hour was going on. We waited about fifteen minutes (it seemed a lot longer than that) and then the party began. Yes I may sound weird calling it a party, but it was just that, just the way we wanted it. After the wedding we changed and went down to the bar with friends and closed it down and did not get to bed that night until 430ish. It was an amazing day
We ate, we danced and we had a lot of fun. We are hoping that everyone else did too. I also want to thank our neighbors who watched bandit for that night, it means a lot and we are forever thankful.
The next day we went home and unloaded our car and relaxed. The next week we were planning on hanging out with our friends. During this time we did just that, minus two days because we were looking at old Karmen Geiahs because Dustin was really wanting one and we did need another car for when we got home that is a car that Dustin could use to drive back and fourth to work every once in awhile.
The week flew by (unfortunately) and we were off to Denver for a couple of days and then back to Singapore. While in Denver I got to see two friends from high school who I haven't seen in about 10 years. Chrissy and Jacob :) It was so good to see you two. I also got to see my old friend PJ whom I haven't seen in awhile. I was also able to see my aunt Cindy (mom's sister) and Uncle Willy. I haven't seen my Aunt in about 10 years and I haven't seen my Uncle in about 20 so this visit was long overdue. They haven't changed much. Well my aunt has but that is because she has been in and out of the hospital for awhile now. She is okay for now, and I am so happy I got to see her. I am upset that I couldn't stay with them longer but hopefully I can see them again soon.
Now we are back in Singapore and are getting back in the swing of things. Jet Lag took a bit to get over but we are good. We are not doing any more traveling but we are going to Formula One weekend in September. October is going to be bittersweet because we will be going home for good but we are also leaving behind our wonderful family here.
Thanks for reading. The next blog will most likely be about our Formula one experience!
The flight was great because I was flying Singapore Air, Business class. The food was wonderful and the ride was smooth. When we landed in Germany I had to get off the plane (even though I was getting back on the same plane in an hourish, oh well) and go though security then I had to wait for an hour and then fly seven hours to New York. After some more food and sleep I was finally on US soil. I got off the plane and walked very fast to the customs counter because I didn't want to wait very long in line (I get have the best waiting skills). The thing I found funny was that when we were getting ready to get off the plane, they announced that no one was allowed on their cellphones until after they got out of customs. I have never heard of that. So once I got out I went to the baggage clam to get my bag. I tried to use my phone but they had a jammer and I wasn't able to call out until I was literally out of the customs area.
I rechecked my bag and then headed to the connecting flight gate. I made my phone calls and then decided to get a beer. When the guy rang me up for a 9 dollar pint I was excited! Finally, cheap beer. Now I realize that isn't cheap to all of my friends back home in the US, but it's a lot more expensive in Singapore. When the guy saw my excitement I explained that I hadn't had a blue moon in ten months and that it was cheap compared to what I was use to paying.
My next stop was the gift/snack shop. I got some snacks but I also got GUM! I was so excited that I started ripping the package open before I paid for it and started to chew it. People thought I was crazy, especially the woman ringing me up. I then had to explain that I was living in a country where gum chewing is ILLEGAL, which isn't the greatest for me because I am an avid gum chewer.
My flight got pushed back and honestly I was starting to go crazy because all I wanted to do was just go home. Thankfully my flight from NY to DC was only forty five minutes. Once I landed I made my way to baggage clam and picked it up and then texted Jason because he was the one picking me up. Once I got outside and saw his car I got really excited, I literally was crying because I was home! I couldn't wait to get home and see my dog and just see everyone.
Once I got home I ran inside to see my Bandit boy. He sniffed and then went crazy with being in my face and giving me kisses. When Joe walked in I gave him the biggest hug and apparently Bandit wasn't done welcoming me home because he jumped up and wouldn't get down till I stopped hugging Joe.
I will tell you this, I didn't stop running from the day I got home till about the day after our wedding. I had no time for jet lag because I was facing a lot of stuff to deal with. My car was in the shop due to being in an accident four months before. I went to make coffee and realized that there was mouse turds EVERYWHERE in the lower cabinets of our kitchen and under our stove. Now mind you, Joe and Krystal (the people who live at our house) cleaned before I came home so this happened with in a couple of days and it looked like it was there for awhile. It was not only there, but in the storage area under the stairs and then also in the storage area in the bathroom rough in. there was also tons under our bed and in our closet.
We had to toss out so much stuff, I am assuming it was around 1500 dollars. I tossed half my shoes and Dustin tossed all of his. Most Halloween decorations got destroyed and other things like bags and other things. Mind you when I found all of this out, we had about two weeks till we had people in our house for the rehearsal dinner. I am so thankful for our neighbors and for Joe and Krystal because they helped out with A LOT. They helped me clean up and wipe down everything that was salvageable from the mouse damage.
I also had my best friends wedding to attend (Mouse it was a beautiful wedding) four days after I landed, Jet lagged and tired of mouse turds I made it and had such a great time. I had to tie up last minute things for the wedding, have my parties and make sure things were good to go. Weeks went by, Dustin came home and we met our new neighbors, whom we are so thankful they all moved in because now we have more friends who are just a walk away. My parties were amazing and my bridesmaids were too. They had to put up with a lot from me, thanks girls for being so wonderful. I also want to thank my friends who helped me put last minute holes in mason jars for the centerpieces and helping put rocks and candles in the jars as well. Without your help, it wouldn't have gotten done as nicely.
The rehearsal dinner was amazing and I was so excited for the wedding. The night before I stayed at the ski lodge with my best friend and was so happy to have her there, Em, thanks for staying with me! The next day I woke up early and ate a big breakfast. I was told if I didn't eat I would pass out so I ate. Plus if you know me, you know that when I don't eat and am starving, I get cranky and I start to lash out at people around me. My great friend Brenna was so wonderful, she was the one who did my hair, Emily's hair and my sisters hair. (thanks again darling, your work is amazing) I was also blessed to have my RI girls come and sit with me while I was getting my hair done. It was so awesome that you girls came to visit with me and stay with me and feeding me around lunch time :)
2:30 was when the pictures were starting. Dustin and I decided to see each other before the wedding because we didn't want to waste time after the ceremony with a bunch of pictures that would cut into our dance time later. It was so hot but we made it though the pictures and headed to the venue. My brother in law was presiding over the wedding and he did such a wonderful job. Once we got upstairs and it was just me and my dad I was getting nervous and more excited. Dad walked me down the stairs and we headed to the aisle. As I was walking I couldn't look anywhere but at Dustin (so I wouldn't cry). The Ceremony was short and sweet and we were married. After pictures it was party time. We were downstairs waiting to be introduced while cocktail hour was going on. We waited about fifteen minutes (it seemed a lot longer than that) and then the party began. Yes I may sound weird calling it a party, but it was just that, just the way we wanted it. After the wedding we changed and went down to the bar with friends and closed it down and did not get to bed that night until 430ish. It was an amazing day
We ate, we danced and we had a lot of fun. We are hoping that everyone else did too. I also want to thank our neighbors who watched bandit for that night, it means a lot and we are forever thankful.
The next day we went home and unloaded our car and relaxed. The next week we were planning on hanging out with our friends. During this time we did just that, minus two days because we were looking at old Karmen Geiahs because Dustin was really wanting one and we did need another car for when we got home that is a car that Dustin could use to drive back and fourth to work every once in awhile.
The week flew by (unfortunately) and we were off to Denver for a couple of days and then back to Singapore. While in Denver I got to see two friends from high school who I haven't seen in about 10 years. Chrissy and Jacob :) It was so good to see you two. I also got to see my old friend PJ whom I haven't seen in awhile. I was also able to see my aunt Cindy (mom's sister) and Uncle Willy. I haven't seen my Aunt in about 10 years and I haven't seen my Uncle in about 20 so this visit was long overdue. They haven't changed much. Well my aunt has but that is because she has been in and out of the hospital for awhile now. She is okay for now, and I am so happy I got to see her. I am upset that I couldn't stay with them longer but hopefully I can see them again soon.
Now we are back in Singapore and are getting back in the swing of things. Jet Lag took a bit to get over but we are good. We are not doing any more traveling but we are going to Formula One weekend in September. October is going to be bittersweet because we will be going home for good but we are also leaving behind our wonderful family here.
Thanks for reading. The next blog will most likely be about our Formula one experience!
Last round of visitors
First of all I want to apologize about being so behind in blogging! I have been busy lately.
So After the boys left we had about a weekish break and then my girlfriends/former coworkers came for a visit. Jen M, Jen F, and Jen F's daughter Katie. Their plan was to basically make our apartment a home base while they did some other traveling.
They arrived very late (about 2 am) and the next day I took them around the city to do touristy things. I also introduced them to Harry's and our friends. They didn't stay long, about a day total. They went off to Malaysia and then to Bangkok, then back to here. After they got back from two countries we repacked and got ready to go to Bali. They invited me to come with them to the other countries but it just wasn't in the budget considering we had a wedding coming up. But I did go to Bali with them, girls four day weekend away.
Ironically the place we were staying in Bali was the same place where Dustin and I stayed the first time we went there. So me being comfortable in the place we were staying I took them around and showed them some good places to eat and such. They had planned on doing excursions and signed me up for them as well but honestly, I had been on them and all I wanted to do was relax and not be gone all day. All I wanted to do was lounge on the beach. The villa was a two bedroom villa that was beautiful, it too had it's own pool.
We also took advantage of the spa at the villa and we were pampered for two days, had two massages and a pedicure. (It was my bridal shower gift from them) We ate great food, relaxed and shopped. The girls bought a lot but then again so did I because I knew I would never be back there. I was so thankful to take one last trip but sad that Dustin couldn't come with us because of work and then it was also a girls weekend so no boys allowed. As soon as we got back we went had a relaxing night and then they were off back to the US.
I was thankful to see them but sad that I didn't get to spend more time with them around Singapore.
After they left,about three days later, my friends Kara and Gavin Jacobs came to visit us. They were here for a week and then they went to Bali.
Of course, I took them around to the tourist spots but didn't rush it because they were here for awhile. Dustin and I took them around and showed them the spots we hang out and of course, introduced them to our friends.
After a week they were heading to Bali, I didn't get to see them off to the airport because the night before they left, I left for HOME :)
It always puts a smile on my face when we have visitors because it's having a reminder of home and it also keeps me entertained while Dustin is working. We are very VERY blessed that we had so many people come and visit us. We have such wonderful friends and are thankful that they took the time and spent the money to come half way around the world just to visit. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts, so much fun
So After the boys left we had about a weekish break and then my girlfriends/former coworkers came for a visit. Jen M, Jen F, and Jen F's daughter Katie. Their plan was to basically make our apartment a home base while they did some other traveling.
They arrived very late (about 2 am) and the next day I took them around the city to do touristy things. I also introduced them to Harry's and our friends. They didn't stay long, about a day total. They went off to Malaysia and then to Bangkok, then back to here. After they got back from two countries we repacked and got ready to go to Bali. They invited me to come with them to the other countries but it just wasn't in the budget considering we had a wedding coming up. But I did go to Bali with them, girls four day weekend away.
Ironically the place we were staying in Bali was the same place where Dustin and I stayed the first time we went there. So me being comfortable in the place we were staying I took them around and showed them some good places to eat and such. They had planned on doing excursions and signed me up for them as well but honestly, I had been on them and all I wanted to do was relax and not be gone all day. All I wanted to do was lounge on the beach. The villa was a two bedroom villa that was beautiful, it too had it's own pool.
We also took advantage of the spa at the villa and we were pampered for two days, had two massages and a pedicure. (It was my bridal shower gift from them) We ate great food, relaxed and shopped. The girls bought a lot but then again so did I because I knew I would never be back there. I was so thankful to take one last trip but sad that Dustin couldn't come with us because of work and then it was also a girls weekend so no boys allowed. As soon as we got back we went had a relaxing night and then they were off back to the US.
I was thankful to see them but sad that I didn't get to spend more time with them around Singapore.
After they left,about three days later, my friends Kara and Gavin Jacobs came to visit us. They were here for a week and then they went to Bali.
Of course, I took them around to the tourist spots but didn't rush it because they were here for awhile. Dustin and I took them around and showed them the spots we hang out and of course, introduced them to our friends.
After a week they were heading to Bali, I didn't get to see them off to the airport because the night before they left, I left for HOME :)
It always puts a smile on my face when we have visitors because it's having a reminder of home and it also keeps me entertained while Dustin is working. We are very VERY blessed that we had so many people come and visit us. We have such wonderful friends and are thankful that they took the time and spent the money to come half way around the world just to visit. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts, so much fun
Friday, 22 June 2012
Boys In Town
First off, I am so sorry it's taken me this long to write another blog. I know there isn't a real excuse but honestly I have had other things on my mind lately.
Matt was the first one to arrive to Singapore, I he got here really late or early however you look at it (2am) and the next day's plan was to meet Jason and Rob at the airport. So the next morning him and I jump in a cab and get to the airport. We went to the right area and everything and I was just beyond excited to see these boys. Some of you may not know, but Jason and Rob are our neighbors in Charles Town and have become our Brothers, when we lived there we were introduced to Matt who is a friend of Jason's who has now become our friend.
Anyways, after a good amount of time I started getting worried. The baggage ring is behind glass so it's not like I can stand by it and look for them, so we waited. Then everyone had their bags and finally I started to go to different staff at the airport to get answers. Unfortunately they gave me a number that no one answered, I even left a message but no one ever called me back (LOL). I even had them paged! After about an hour we gave up and got into a taxi and went back to the apartment. Normally I would be worried but they knew our address so I figured they could get there one way or another.
When we were in the cab I got a call from Dustin (who was at work) who said that Rob called him (can't imagine how much that phone bill was) saying that the boys were indeed at our apartment. After we got to our apartment I gave hugs and was just so excited that they were all here. They got settled with everything and then went to the store for beer. After the beer we went to the pool and honestly they were drinking, a lot. But that was to be expected, they did fly 30 hours. When it came time, Dustin was off work and we met him up at the bar and continued to celebrate the guys being in town.
After the first day we took the guys around Singapore. We took them to the bay, up on the Marina Bay, most all of the tourist spots. We had them meet our friends here, and everyone got a long and had a great time. We also went from Harry's at BQ to four floors so they could see what we were talking about.
After a couple of days they really wanted to see another country. So one day we sat down and looked at the options and found the cheapest one was to go to Bali. We booked the flight about four days before hand and it cost about 300 USD per person. This was including our flights, hotel stay at a two room villa with private pool and breakfast everyday. It was a great deal. We were only there for three days but we enjoyed every minute. We spent one day walking around trying to find the beach and we finally found it. We walked around and stumbled upon the Potato Head Beach Club. We have had our friends here in Singapore tell us that we need to go and we just happened to find it. It was a great day, drinking, eating and soaking in the beautiful sights.
The last day we were there we went snorkeling. Now I have never been so I was quite excited. I did see a lot of beautiful fish but it wasn't what I thought it was going to be. I am sure if we had time to go to a different place we would have seen more fish, but it was still a great experience and of course I would like to do it again!
After we got back the next day Matt had to leave but Jason and Rob were here for a couple more days. Those days we just hung out, saw the city and enjoyed the pool. When it was time for them to leave I was very sad, as was Dustin. These three men have become more than just friends, they are our family. I know I say that a lot but that's what they are.
I was sad but then again I was excited, not that they were leaving but because a week after they left my girlfriends Jen, Jen and Jen's daughter Kathleen were going to come into town for a visit. It also meant that we are that much closer to coming home for a visit.
My girls are here now and we are really enjoying the time. It will be sad to see them go but again I am excited because four days after they leave, my friends Kara and Gavin come to visit for a couple of days and then I am home for a month. I really am having a great time and am really enjoying myself out here in Singapore and I am truly not taking advantage of being here but when you're gone from home for a long time, you get excited to go back and see everyone, even if it is just for a little while.
Hope you all are doing well and I will be posting blogs about the girls stay and of course while I am home. Thanks for reading!
Matt was the first one to arrive to Singapore, I he got here really late or early however you look at it (2am) and the next day's plan was to meet Jason and Rob at the airport. So the next morning him and I jump in a cab and get to the airport. We went to the right area and everything and I was just beyond excited to see these boys. Some of you may not know, but Jason and Rob are our neighbors in Charles Town and have become our Brothers, when we lived there we were introduced to Matt who is a friend of Jason's who has now become our friend.
Anyways, after a good amount of time I started getting worried. The baggage ring is behind glass so it's not like I can stand by it and look for them, so we waited. Then everyone had their bags and finally I started to go to different staff at the airport to get answers. Unfortunately they gave me a number that no one answered, I even left a message but no one ever called me back (LOL). I even had them paged! After about an hour we gave up and got into a taxi and went back to the apartment. Normally I would be worried but they knew our address so I figured they could get there one way or another.
When we were in the cab I got a call from Dustin (who was at work) who said that Rob called him (can't imagine how much that phone bill was) saying that the boys were indeed at our apartment. After we got to our apartment I gave hugs and was just so excited that they were all here. They got settled with everything and then went to the store for beer. After the beer we went to the pool and honestly they were drinking, a lot. But that was to be expected, they did fly 30 hours. When it came time, Dustin was off work and we met him up at the bar and continued to celebrate the guys being in town.
After the first day we took the guys around Singapore. We took them to the bay, up on the Marina Bay, most all of the tourist spots. We had them meet our friends here, and everyone got a long and had a great time. We also went from Harry's at BQ to four floors so they could see what we were talking about.
After a couple of days they really wanted to see another country. So one day we sat down and looked at the options and found the cheapest one was to go to Bali. We booked the flight about four days before hand and it cost about 300 USD per person. This was including our flights, hotel stay at a two room villa with private pool and breakfast everyday. It was a great deal. We were only there for three days but we enjoyed every minute. We spent one day walking around trying to find the beach and we finally found it. We walked around and stumbled upon the Potato Head Beach Club. We have had our friends here in Singapore tell us that we need to go and we just happened to find it. It was a great day, drinking, eating and soaking in the beautiful sights.
The last day we were there we went snorkeling. Now I have never been so I was quite excited. I did see a lot of beautiful fish but it wasn't what I thought it was going to be. I am sure if we had time to go to a different place we would have seen more fish, but it was still a great experience and of course I would like to do it again!
After we got back the next day Matt had to leave but Jason and Rob were here for a couple more days. Those days we just hung out, saw the city and enjoyed the pool. When it was time for them to leave I was very sad, as was Dustin. These three men have become more than just friends, they are our family. I know I say that a lot but that's what they are.
I was sad but then again I was excited, not that they were leaving but because a week after they left my girlfriends Jen, Jen and Jen's daughter Kathleen were going to come into town for a visit. It also meant that we are that much closer to coming home for a visit.
My girls are here now and we are really enjoying the time. It will be sad to see them go but again I am excited because four days after they leave, my friends Kara and Gavin come to visit for a couple of days and then I am home for a month. I really am having a great time and am really enjoying myself out here in Singapore and I am truly not taking advantage of being here but when you're gone from home for a long time, you get excited to go back and see everyone, even if it is just for a little while.
Hope you all are doing well and I will be posting blogs about the girls stay and of course while I am home. Thanks for reading!
Friday, 11 May 2012
Gooood Morning Vietnam!
As most of you know, Dustin and I traveled to Vietnam for 3 nights (4 days). We were suppose to go back in April but we had to move it due to Dustin going to India for work. It worked out to be a good move because we were able to spend more time in Nam this way.
When I knew we were going to be moving to Singapore I knew travel was going to happen. I was dead set against going to Vietnam because of what I learned about it in history and was unsure how it would be like for us to go. But apparently I was wrong, the newer generation in Vietnam does not really know enough about the war to have an opinion and the older generation has nothing against us because their mind set is they won and no big deal to have Americans come and visit. I also got advice from friends here who went and loved it, so that helped!
We flew into Hanoi and had to get our visas. We applied and paid for a 30 day visa so when we got into the airport we had to turn in the paperwork and approval letter, after that we went though customs, picked up our bag and got our ride to the hotel. The hotel was called the Charming 2 hotel. Dustin looked it up on Tripadvisor and it came up as one of the top rated hotels in the old quarter. The old quarter is self explanatory, it's the older part of the city where life is a lot slower to the locals than it is to 'regular city life'.
The hotel room was small, but so adorable and Charming seemed to fit! We had a tiny balcony and wifi so we were set. Once we got settled in we decided to venture out. The customer survive at this hotel was fantastic! We turned in our key to the front desk before we left (love this idea so you don't worry about loosing your key) and the person behind the desk asked where we were going. We admited that we didn't know but weren't worried. The person gave us a map, on the map it had landmarks, museums, and obviously road names. On the back it had suggestions of good shopping, site seeing and restaurants. They also gave us their business card in case we got lost we would have the address.
Now before we left my friend Shopie (and others) had warned us about the traffic and that no one stops for you to cross the street and if you stop in the middle of the street, you could cause an accident, they know how to drive around you. The best way to explain it (thanks Jason) is that it's like the game Frogger. (If you are one of my former students or lax players, it's a game that was played back in the day lol) I didn't think it was going to be that bad but wow was traffic amazing. There were TONS of motorbikes, and just like Bali, there were more than two people to a motorbike half of the time. Also, I saw a mom on the back of one holding a tiny baby, the baby was not strapped to her, she was holding it, and luckily they had a tiny tiny helmet on the child. More than half of the people (including children) had masks on, we are assuming it's because of fumes from cars/buses. We noticed that the traffic there was crazy. According to Dustin it was nothing compared to India but to me it was worse than Bali! There was lots of beeping, I am assuming it was to let others know that they were about to get passed and the lines on the road for the different lanes were just guide lines. Crazy drivers over there reminded me of Bali and Rome, just doing what they want in order to get around.
Walking we noticed that there was a sidewalk, but it was mostly used for store fronts, people sitting around a table eating 'street meat' or for parking your motorbike on. So needless to say, we had to walk on the very edge of the street where it met the sidewalk and had to walk one behind the other. Again, I was use to this thanks to Bali. We also took notice that there were different stores catering to different needs. From fans to touristy stuff. It looked like that the people who ran the stores also lived in them or above them depending on how big the store was. There were also ladies who would carry two baskets with some type of food on it going from store front to store front selling it. Also, the people of Vietnam do really wear the pointy hats (see pictures below)
The first day we took it easy because we arrived in the afternoon, we did a walk around the lake, and then found a restaurant called Legend Beer and decided to sit there on the balcony and people watch. We found that the beer was about 58000 dong which is equal to about 2.00 USD. HELLO CHEAP BEER! We had a couple of beers and amazing food. What I have found on this trip was that every time we went out for dinner, I always ended up with the spicy food (food on the menu was not labeled if it was spicy or not).
The second day we did sight seeing around Hanoi. We went to the Hanoi Hilton Prison and the Military Museum. Both were very interesting and honestly I can't put into words how I felt. Some of you know that I majored in Social Studies when I went to University so I obviously learned a lot about Vietnam and wars. I also took an interest in wars and took a class on battle tactics and learned a lot more about the different wars that the US was involved in compared to basic history class that everyone else had to take just for general ed.
The prison was interesting. To see what the jail cells looked like and how they treated prisoners made a chill go though me.There were some cells that were open and we could walk into them. Of course that is what I did and it felt so freaky, I can't explain it. They had a lot of information and different items to look at like every other museum had but it was just different for me to be there where it all happened. We saw John McCain's flight suit and pictures of him when he was in the prison. I am glad we went there, it is definitely a place everyone should see if they are ever in Hanoi.
Next up was the Military museum. This place had different weaponry from different wars and also explained who it was taken from (country wise) and it also had different planes/helicopters that were captured in the wars. Dustin and I got approached by a man who asked if we wanted to sell us tickets, Dustin said no so and kept walking, then the man came to me (I was walking behind Dustin) and tried to get my attention by trying to grab my arm (not in an aggressive way) and I gave him the look of death and he walked away. It was a hot day and Dustin and I decided to get a beer before we went into the museum.
Once we were done with our beers we went over to buy tickets (5 usd a person) but they were closed for lunch. So we decided to go see the different planes that were captured that were obviously outside of the museum. It was interesting to see the different planes from the US. There was a sculpture of three different planes that belonged to the US that got shot down in the Vietnam war and that obviously hit home for us. We definitely realized that at least one person died in the planes. We were able to go into one of the big helicopters and saw where the bullet went though the front windshield of the plane, that person definitely took a shot to the head. Just seeing the different bullet holes in the planes was weird.
Once an hour passed we went though and saw the different weapons, flags and things like that. It was was really cool to see what they used though the years. It was also funny because Dustin and I caught different spelling errors. Apparently we didn't have a president Johnson, according to this place, it was president Fhonson. It did make me laugh out loud, and of course there were weird looks around wondering why I was laughing at a museum about death and war.
Again a lot of stuff hit home and made me realize what everyone went though and how tough it was back then. After we were done we went walked around and went back to the hotel to cool off. We went out and about later for beers and dinner and walked around to the different shops. We also got tickets to the puppet water show. It is a puppet show but all in the water. Again, it was 5usd a person for front row tickets! It was an amazing show, even though I couldn't understand a word, I enjoyed it!
We booked our trip to Halong bay though our hotel. It was only 40 USD per person to have the company come pick us up, have lunch on the boat and to kayak in a fishing village. At first we weren't going to do it but we just heard too many good things about it. The drive from the hotel was going to be about 3.5 hours. We got on the bus and picked up others from their hotels and were on our way. It was a long and bumpy trip but we got to see the 'country side' of Vietnam and it was beautiful. We did have one stop along the way to use restrooms, shop and eat snacks if we wanted. Where we stopped both times (once there and once back) had very expensive stuff, like statues and stuff like that. We saw rice patties, people farming and little villages. I say it was a bumpy ride because the roads around the villages were not the best.
Once we got there we were talking to others on the day tour and got to know them. It also made us how small of a world it really is, there was a couple on the bus who were from DC! We all ate lunch and looked at the beautiful views. Once we got to the fishing village we were told not to leave money on the boat so we left our good camera and wallets with the tour guide. Once we docked boats full of fruit and such were pulled up to where we docked asking if we wanted to buy anything. I say it was annoying because they wouldn't stop asking us, even after we said no the first three times. After we got ready we went into the kayaks and Dustin and I paddled around. It was so beautiful. We had the intention of going in the water until we saw how stagnate it was. There was also trash and HUGE jellyfish in it, so we did not go it but still loved the fact that we got to do it. After we got back we were on our way to a cave that was discovered only in 93'. We were all surprised that it wasn't discovered that long ago, but then I thought about it and 93 really was awhile ago.
We got back on the boat and headed back to the bus. It was truly a breath taking experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. The fishing village was really amazing. It didn't appear that the kids went to school, their houses were not on land, they were floating, and the transportation was by boat (obviously). It's a way of life I never thought I would see and it gave me more appreciation of the life that I have.
The drive took a lot out of us and we were leaving for Singapore the next day. All we did when we got back was go out to dinner and look around the different shops. The dinner we had was wonderful, I had the BEST sweet and sour chicken EVER and we didn't really find anything shopping so we called it a night and relaxed at our hotel.
Like I have said before, I am so grateful for the life that I live and don't take anything for granted. Dustin and I are on a trip of a life time out here and we are trying to live up the expat life while we can because in just a few short months we are heading back home for good. Thank you all for being so supportive and taking interest in how our life is like living over here.
Video of us crossing the street.
In just a few days our neighbors Jason and Rob and friend Matt will be here and we can't wait. I am sure it's a blog you won't want to miss out on :)
Pictures Below. The one under the bridge is a random stop for people to get things like food and such. Others are self explanatory.
Thanks for reading and take care!!
When I knew we were going to be moving to Singapore I knew travel was going to happen. I was dead set against going to Vietnam because of what I learned about it in history and was unsure how it would be like for us to go. But apparently I was wrong, the newer generation in Vietnam does not really know enough about the war to have an opinion and the older generation has nothing against us because their mind set is they won and no big deal to have Americans come and visit. I also got advice from friends here who went and loved it, so that helped!
We flew into Hanoi and had to get our visas. We applied and paid for a 30 day visa so when we got into the airport we had to turn in the paperwork and approval letter, after that we went though customs, picked up our bag and got our ride to the hotel. The hotel was called the Charming 2 hotel. Dustin looked it up on Tripadvisor and it came up as one of the top rated hotels in the old quarter. The old quarter is self explanatory, it's the older part of the city where life is a lot slower to the locals than it is to 'regular city life'.
The hotel room was small, but so adorable and Charming seemed to fit! We had a tiny balcony and wifi so we were set. Once we got settled in we decided to venture out. The customer survive at this hotel was fantastic! We turned in our key to the front desk before we left (love this idea so you don't worry about loosing your key) and the person behind the desk asked where we were going. We admited that we didn't know but weren't worried. The person gave us a map, on the map it had landmarks, museums, and obviously road names. On the back it had suggestions of good shopping, site seeing and restaurants. They also gave us their business card in case we got lost we would have the address.
Now before we left my friend Shopie (and others) had warned us about the traffic and that no one stops for you to cross the street and if you stop in the middle of the street, you could cause an accident, they know how to drive around you. The best way to explain it (thanks Jason) is that it's like the game Frogger. (If you are one of my former students or lax players, it's a game that was played back in the day lol) I didn't think it was going to be that bad but wow was traffic amazing. There were TONS of motorbikes, and just like Bali, there were more than two people to a motorbike half of the time. Also, I saw a mom on the back of one holding a tiny baby, the baby was not strapped to her, she was holding it, and luckily they had a tiny tiny helmet on the child. More than half of the people (including children) had masks on, we are assuming it's because of fumes from cars/buses. We noticed that the traffic there was crazy. According to Dustin it was nothing compared to India but to me it was worse than Bali! There was lots of beeping, I am assuming it was to let others know that they were about to get passed and the lines on the road for the different lanes were just guide lines. Crazy drivers over there reminded me of Bali and Rome, just doing what they want in order to get around.
Walking we noticed that there was a sidewalk, but it was mostly used for store fronts, people sitting around a table eating 'street meat' or for parking your motorbike on. So needless to say, we had to walk on the very edge of the street where it met the sidewalk and had to walk one behind the other. Again, I was use to this thanks to Bali. We also took notice that there were different stores catering to different needs. From fans to touristy stuff. It looked like that the people who ran the stores also lived in them or above them depending on how big the store was. There were also ladies who would carry two baskets with some type of food on it going from store front to store front selling it. Also, the people of Vietnam do really wear the pointy hats (see pictures below)
The first day we took it easy because we arrived in the afternoon, we did a walk around the lake, and then found a restaurant called Legend Beer and decided to sit there on the balcony and people watch. We found that the beer was about 58000 dong which is equal to about 2.00 USD. HELLO CHEAP BEER! We had a couple of beers and amazing food. What I have found on this trip was that every time we went out for dinner, I always ended up with the spicy food (food on the menu was not labeled if it was spicy or not).
The second day we did sight seeing around Hanoi. We went to the Hanoi Hilton Prison and the Military Museum. Both were very interesting and honestly I can't put into words how I felt. Some of you know that I majored in Social Studies when I went to University so I obviously learned a lot about Vietnam and wars. I also took an interest in wars and took a class on battle tactics and learned a lot more about the different wars that the US was involved in compared to basic history class that everyone else had to take just for general ed.
The prison was interesting. To see what the jail cells looked like and how they treated prisoners made a chill go though me.There were some cells that were open and we could walk into them. Of course that is what I did and it felt so freaky, I can't explain it. They had a lot of information and different items to look at like every other museum had but it was just different for me to be there where it all happened. We saw John McCain's flight suit and pictures of him when he was in the prison. I am glad we went there, it is definitely a place everyone should see if they are ever in Hanoi.
Next up was the Military museum. This place had different weaponry from different wars and also explained who it was taken from (country wise) and it also had different planes/helicopters that were captured in the wars. Dustin and I got approached by a man who asked if we wanted to sell us tickets, Dustin said no so and kept walking, then the man came to me (I was walking behind Dustin) and tried to get my attention by trying to grab my arm (not in an aggressive way) and I gave him the look of death and he walked away. It was a hot day and Dustin and I decided to get a beer before we went into the museum.
Once we were done with our beers we went over to buy tickets (5 usd a person) but they were closed for lunch. So we decided to go see the different planes that were captured that were obviously outside of the museum. It was interesting to see the different planes from the US. There was a sculpture of three different planes that belonged to the US that got shot down in the Vietnam war and that obviously hit home for us. We definitely realized that at least one person died in the planes. We were able to go into one of the big helicopters and saw where the bullet went though the front windshield of the plane, that person definitely took a shot to the head. Just seeing the different bullet holes in the planes was weird.
Once an hour passed we went though and saw the different weapons, flags and things like that. It was was really cool to see what they used though the years. It was also funny because Dustin and I caught different spelling errors. Apparently we didn't have a president Johnson, according to this place, it was president Fhonson. It did make me laugh out loud, and of course there were weird looks around wondering why I was laughing at a museum about death and war.
Again a lot of stuff hit home and made me realize what everyone went though and how tough it was back then. After we were done we went walked around and went back to the hotel to cool off. We went out and about later for beers and dinner and walked around to the different shops. We also got tickets to the puppet water show. It is a puppet show but all in the water. Again, it was 5usd a person for front row tickets! It was an amazing show, even though I couldn't understand a word, I enjoyed it!
We booked our trip to Halong bay though our hotel. It was only 40 USD per person to have the company come pick us up, have lunch on the boat and to kayak in a fishing village. At first we weren't going to do it but we just heard too many good things about it. The drive from the hotel was going to be about 3.5 hours. We got on the bus and picked up others from their hotels and were on our way. It was a long and bumpy trip but we got to see the 'country side' of Vietnam and it was beautiful. We did have one stop along the way to use restrooms, shop and eat snacks if we wanted. Where we stopped both times (once there and once back) had very expensive stuff, like statues and stuff like that. We saw rice patties, people farming and little villages. I say it was a bumpy ride because the roads around the villages were not the best.
Once we got there we were talking to others on the day tour and got to know them. It also made us how small of a world it really is, there was a couple on the bus who were from DC! We all ate lunch and looked at the beautiful views. Once we got to the fishing village we were told not to leave money on the boat so we left our good camera and wallets with the tour guide. Once we docked boats full of fruit and such were pulled up to where we docked asking if we wanted to buy anything. I say it was annoying because they wouldn't stop asking us, even after we said no the first three times. After we got ready we went into the kayaks and Dustin and I paddled around. It was so beautiful. We had the intention of going in the water until we saw how stagnate it was. There was also trash and HUGE jellyfish in it, so we did not go it but still loved the fact that we got to do it. After we got back we were on our way to a cave that was discovered only in 93'. We were all surprised that it wasn't discovered that long ago, but then I thought about it and 93 really was awhile ago.
We got back on the boat and headed back to the bus. It was truly a breath taking experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. The fishing village was really amazing. It didn't appear that the kids went to school, their houses were not on land, they were floating, and the transportation was by boat (obviously). It's a way of life I never thought I would see and it gave me more appreciation of the life that I have.
The drive took a lot out of us and we were leaving for Singapore the next day. All we did when we got back was go out to dinner and look around the different shops. The dinner we had was wonderful, I had the BEST sweet and sour chicken EVER and we didn't really find anything shopping so we called it a night and relaxed at our hotel.
Like I have said before, I am so grateful for the life that I live and don't take anything for granted. Dustin and I are on a trip of a life time out here and we are trying to live up the expat life while we can because in just a few short months we are heading back home for good. Thank you all for being so supportive and taking interest in how our life is like living over here.
In just a few days our neighbors Jason and Rob and friend Matt will be here and we can't wait. I am sure it's a blog you won't want to miss out on :)
Pictures Below. The one under the bridge is a random stop for people to get things like food and such. Others are self explanatory.
Thanks for reading and take care!!
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