Our last day in Singapore/ treck home

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

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!  

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.

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!

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

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!

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!! 

Visitors and a trip to Phuket Thailand!

Our second round of visitors have come and gone. It was so exciting to have Nicole and Sarah come and visit. I haven't seen Nicole in almost four years, I haven't seen Sarah in almost 5 and to be honest, I was nervous at first when I told them they could come stay with us because I haven't seen them in such a long time. But I took a note from past experiences, life is busy and if you really are good friends, you can pick up where you left off. After thinking this, I got super excited to have them here.

The timing was perfect because a couple of weeks before the girls got here, Dustin got notice that he would be leaving for India the day the girls got here so with that, I wouldn't be alone while Dustin was out of the country for work. I met the girls at the airport and we really did pick up where we left off. They talked about their experience in Bangkok and the flight over and I talked about planning a wedding while over here and then started to get into what they wanted to do while they were here.  

I knew that they had already made arrangements to take a city tour and go to the night safari. I took a pass on the city tour because honestly, I don't need to go on one. But I did go on the night safari with them and it was neat. They had the same concept of the zoo as they believed in open spaces and natural barriers. We took the trolly around and there were some parts where the animals could come right up to the trolly, but it was only like deer and harmless animals. I did notice that there were a lot of different types of deer but it was still good.

While the girls where here I took them around the bay, to see the merlion, I took them to Harrys and around boat quay and clark quay. I also took them to one altitude at sunset so they could see the city in a different light. It was such a beautiful view, we saw the sun set on one end and a storm coming the other end, but thankfully we didn't get caught in the storm because for some reason it passed us. I also took them to Chinatown where I learned that it was a lot better than NYC Chinatown. We did some shopping and ate some authentic food as well. The last night they were here we went to our friends apartment for a dinner get together to welcome back our friends who had been in the states. It was so much fun and I am sure they had a good time here in Singapore.

The day they left, Dustin's dad came into town. Lucky for us, he works for the same company Dustin does so he got a free flight over here. His dad has been here before so I was not expected to play tour guide. We went out to dinner, met friends out at Harry's and then to wrap up his dads stay we went to Phuket Thailand. The day we left for the beach, was my 28th birthday and I couldn't have asked for a better present.

When the plane was going in to land, it was beautiful. The water was very blue and it was cool to see random islands sticking out of the water off the mainland. Once we got though customs and such we got to the resort and it took my breath away. We were staying in a 2 room villa and it was amazing. A short walk and we hit one of three pools and then the beach. The beach was so beautiful. The water was rough because of storms coming in and out of the area (it's monsoon season there) so we only went up into our knees. Once we did that, we felt like we were going to get sucked in, the undertow was very strong.

We didn't travel far off of the resort because it was mostly secluded. there was a small shopping center that we went to that was cute and we did get some stuff that was reasonably priced so it all worked out there.  We ate wonderful food and had great drinks and just relaxed by the pools and caught some rays when we could. The weekend went by fast but I am thankful that we got to go. The taste of this island makes me want to go back with Dustin and friends sometime soon!

Once we got back we just hung out with Dustin's dad until he had to leave. I was so happy to have him here because it truly did feel like home with him here. I was sad to see him leave but know we will see him soon when we come home for a visit. It also reminded me that we only had weeks left until our next visitors and adventures.

Tomorrow we leave for Vietnam for three nights/four days and when we come back to Singapore, we will have four days till our neighbors Jason, Rob and our friend Matt come for their visit and it is going to be a blast and possibly a two blog story!

Hope my readers are doing well! Will post about Vietnam when we get back, promise!

Movie Dates

Dustin and I really enjoy going on movie dates. There are some obvious differences between the movies in the states and here in Singapore. Some good and some annoying.

 Back in the sates we would get dinner and then see a movie (or the other way around depending on the movie times). If we are planning ahead we would buy tickets online, from there we would go to a kiosk and pick them up, but sometimes we just get our tickets from the person in the booth if we are not planning a head.  If we don't get dinner and just go to an afternoon movie of course we hit up the snacks, popcorn and drinks of course. In the states, when the movie is getting ready to start there is a reminder to everyone to not talk during the movie and to silence your cellphones.

Dustin and I have been going to movies here, it's become our thing. We love movies and go usually twice a month. Here most movies that have just come out are about six weeks after they come out in the states. I can't tell you what the first movie we saw over here but I can tell you that when we walked up to the ticket booth to get tickets I was excited. The reason is because when we told them what movie the person turned the screen around and asked what seats we would like. Yes, we got to pick our seats! That was just an amazing option to have.

Once going though the first movie, we found that we can also buy tickets online here. The coolest thing out of all is that after you pick your seats and buy the tickets they can either send an email to you that you take up to the ticket booth line that is spacific for online bought tickets or you can have it sent via text to your cellphone. At first I thought that we would have to take it up to the ticket booth but no, they have a scanner in front of the different halls. All you have to do is bring up the text on your phone and put your phone on the scanner and the tickets print out, so no waiting in line!

The think that I have noticed since being here is that the theaters don't have a reminder to be quiet during the movie or to silence cellphones. I found it a little odd but thought nothing of it. During the previews, everyone mummers something and it's usually along the lines of wanting to see the movie when it comes out. I honestly was not bothered by the talking during this time. The think that is the MOST annoying is talking/kids crying/cell phone rings during the movie that you paid to watch. I don't know if it feels the same to you but to me, it's just rude.

I have found that there is a reason why there isn't a reminder before the movie starts, because it's just not a thing they care about here. It seems like everyone is talking, and it's not whispering! It's the most annoying thing because they can be loud, trying to talk over the movie. Honestly if you wanted to talk like that wait till the movie comes out on dvd and rent/buy it and watch it at your house where you can talk all you freaking want. Cellphones have gone off as well while we are watching a movie and it does not vibrate it rings, and does the person go out of the theater to answer it, NO they answer it right there! It's so rude because they are disrupting the movie and being distracting.

I don't know about you all but I get upset when people are talking in the movie are talking on their cellphones. It's just a known no-no because you don't want to disrupt others or frankly miss what is going on in the movie. There has been points where I feel the urge to shush people but I am not sure if it's okay. I have done it once but they ignored me.

So all in all the movie experience has it's pros and cons. I really do hope that the US theaters take a note from Singapore and get the technology for the online ticket scanners via text message and picking seats.

Thanks for reading. I should be putting up a blog about our current visitors tomorrow or so! Take care all!

"A Man's Best Friend"

"A Man's Best Friend", when you see this quote or hear it from someone you automatically thing Dog(s). Now not everyone is a dog person or owns a dog but they know what it is like to own a pet. I don't know about you all but our dog Bandit has become our son over the past two and a half years we've had him.

What really inspired me to write about this was our friends Dave and Colleen just lost their German Shepard Sieben whom they have had (Dave mostly) since he was a puppy. Siebes was such a great dog, well behaved and just a big bear of love! Bandit and Siebs went on many a camping trips and chased many tennis balls together with Siebs brother Jack. These three dogs together was great and entertaining! I am truly sad knowing that when we get home Siebs will no longer be there but know he is in a better place now.

Dave said it best, Don't take any time for granted with your best friends and loved ones. He is so spot on with this comment. This is comment is not only for humans but for our pets as well. Pets have a special place in our hearts. Honestly if you are a pet owner you know what I am talking about. Our pets listen to anything we have to say. I know I found myself talking to Bandit when it's just him and me at home (Now I talk to myself here in Singapore and I think Dustin is thinking I am crazy and that I was covering it up by saying I was talking to the dog when I was really talking to myself lol). Our pets are there for us when we need to cry and don't have a human to hold us, they are there to sit in our laps or lay a head on our legs and show that they love us. It is said that our pets are very sensitive and know when a person is depressed, sad, happy or about to (to some) have an epileptic episode.

Pets are loyal. They do something bad, you yell at them and then ten minutes later they are loving you again. When we first got Bandit he was really scared and sad because to him we ripped him out of his home that he had known his whole life and brought him to our house that does not have any other pets. Once he warmed up to us, he has never left our side. He has eaten stuff he should not eat and had accidents in the house (not his fault, Dustin was sleeping and I was late getting off work) he's been a typical dog and has won our hearts over.

You all know being away from home has been hard for us in different areas. The absolute HARDEST thing we have had to deal with is not having our Bandit with us. If you all have been keeping up with the blogs you know that Bandit got really sick and had to have surgery. We were so thankful that Dustin's sister Emily, her roommate Krystal, her boyfriend Justin and our neighbors Jason and Rob were there to help care for him. Knowing that he could have not survived made me miss him even more. Luckily he survived and healed well, but if we would have lost him while we were away, I don't think I would have forgiven myself about being away.

When we heard the loss of Mr.Siebes we took it hard and really truly miss Bandit and can't wait to get home and see him. My fear is that he has forgotten us, but I am staying positive that he has not because when we skype with Emily we ask to see him or she calls him over, we say hello to him and he doesn't make the connection but just seeing him eases our feelings. I have never taken our boy for granted and never will. I can't wait to play ball with him and take him on long walks when we get back.

My heart hurts for our friends who lost their best friend, their son, their Siebes. Nothing will ever replace him and no one will ever forget this wonderful dog. If Dustin and I were home we would be right there with our friends helping them heal the gaping hole in their heart. We know that if the roles were reversed, they'd be there for us. I know they will heal but they will never fully get over the loss of their pup. Dave and Colleen, stay strong and know he will always be missed. It is really tough right now, I am sure but soon the wounds will heal (never completely) and with each passing day you will remember him without being so bummed out compared to right now. We love you guys very much and can't wait to be home with you two!

To all of you out there reading this. If you are a pet owner take five minutes to love on your animals. They love you unconditionally, show them how much you love them. You never know what will happen, live every day to the fullest and love unconditionally. Don't get too upset with your animals when they do bad things, just enough so they won't do it again because trust me, you will laugh at the things they do when time has past. I know Dustin and I still laugh at Bandit when he ate an entire pan of jalapeno corn bread that was resting on the counter, he only ate the middle, not the edges! Yes we were upset, but now we look back on it and laugh, and never leave the kitchen unattended when there is food within Bandit's reach (we usually baby gate the kitchen so he can't get in) Laugh off the animals mistakes and enjoy the ride of being a pet owner. I know we have and when the time comes, I will be a mess but know I will have people there to be by my side. (including friends animals). I know I have said it a lot but I do miss my boy and am lucky to come home to such a sweet and wonderful dog. I can't wait to give him LOTS of hugs when I get home. He may even get to sleep on the bed the week before Dustin gets home, just don't tell Dustin I said that ;)


Bandit boy Camping
RIP Siebes, we love you!

6 Months already

St. Patrick's day marks our 6 months in Singapore. A lot has gone one in the past six months and I can't believe our adventure here has reached the half way point. It really seems like yesterday that we landed here and started this crazy time.

I look back and realize why (for the most part) the first couple of months were so slow for me. The first couple of weeks were entertaining because I was getting to know the area and learn how to live the city life. But as life slowed back down and we were settling into the life I realized that, in the beginning, I didn't have friends and so I was lonely for the most part because our friends here work during the day and I was not working or volunteering yet. (This by NO means is a pitty party for myself, I am just explaining how I feel/felt because it is about me and adjusting to living here.) Not to mention that the Holidays were approaching and it was the first time I ever spent holidays away from all of my family.

I think that after the holidays was when things started to really speed up around here. We were booking trips and I was really settling into the life around here, making a lot of friends though volunteering and not being shy when our friends (you know who you are) invited me out on nights that Dustin was working, I just accepted that I need to live here like I would live at home and go out with my friends even though Dustin can't make it (That was huge for me too). I have tried and failed at Dragon Boat racing because my shoulders can't take it, but I have made a lot of friends from the team. RDA is also helping with friends and as you all know, I always look forward to Wednesdays because I not only love the kids I work with but the volunteers and our girl catch up time at the polo club after for lunch. I am considering stepping it up to two days a week. I have also started rock climbing again with friends who do that as well and am looking forward to once a week with possibly Rich and Will if the are interested (already climbed with both, looking for a once a week thing)

We are also booked up with visitors from now until we come home for the wedding. We had our first visitor, Jinsoo, in Feb and it was absolutely amazing. I am looking forward to my high school friend Nicole and my college roommate Sara to come in visit in April. Dustin and I are going to Vietnam and we come back two days before Nicole and Sara get here. Dustin's dad is coming to visit us from April 20 to May 2. Now this is no vacation for him, he and Dustin work for the same company and his dad worked out a business trip. I can't wait for him to come visit!

After that in May we are having our Neighbors Rob and Jason come with Jason's friend (now our friend) Matt and we just found out that our friend Todd will be coming out here on business in May as well, such a great surprise and we can't wait for him to come. After them it's my Co-workers the Jen M and Jen F and Jen F's daughter for two weeks, The girls and I are planning on going to bali while they are here so that should be fun. After they leave, a week later my friends the Jacobs (Kara and Gavin) are coming to visit. They will be in Singapore for a week and then they are taking a trip down to Bali. I go home three days before they come back to fly out of Singapore. We are so blessed to have so many people to come out and visit us, it truly is amazing :)

I have a feeling the next six months are going to go by fast (too fast if you ask me now), with visitors, us taking trips in between visitors, our trip home, before we know it October will be here and we will be heading home. I have said it to our friends here, it will definitely be bittersweet to head home. Dustin and I will be excited to continue the life back in the states that we put on hold but we will be missing our Singapore life as well.

Dustin will be coming back to Singapore for work about once a year and I am hoping to save up money every year to make the trip back with him so I can see our wonderful Singapore family. That's just what our friends out here in Singapore have become, family. We have celebrated/will celebrate holidays with them, birthdays with others, house parties, rugby games/celebrations and an engagement (yay Will and Sophie!). With each day that passes I feel so blessed to live the life that we do and to have the opportunity that we have over here.

Thanks so much for reading! Until next time!

First full session of RDA

As you all know, I have been doing Riding for the Disabled for awhile now. This past 8 weeks have been so wonderful and have gone by way too fast. Being in the special education field back at home I know that the kids can teach you something new every day and make you really appreciate the life you have.I really do look forward to my Wednesdays with the kids and the other volunteers, it's such a great day!

Though the weeks we got the kids to not only learn how to ride a horse but about horses and riding. We saw the kids improve and grow as riders and knew that if the term was longer than 8 weeks we would have been even more impressed with their abilities.


We set up zig zag courses for the kids to learn how to steer with the hopes that by the end of the 8 weeks that they would be able to steer the horse with no side walkers and no leader. Some students didn't get to reach that point but they did reach it to where the side walkers were watching at a distance. We went on trail rides or the Jungle walk, it is shared with the polo club. The kids really do love this walk, and to be honest, so do I. We usually took the short route but the last walk we did was the long one and all of our riders were amazing. Sophie, Kathy and I only had to tell our riders (girl and boy) once how to sit while going up a hill and down a hill.

It wasn't all sunshine and butterflies, we met challenges with both the riders but were able to work them out. Keeping one of our riders focused was a challenge in the beginning, yes a lot of it had to do with the child's disability. Between the three of us we were able to get him to focus more on the tasks at hand than what was going on around him. It was exhausting because we had to constantly say the his name and make sure we had his attention. But with that, at the end this he made great progress.

From what we found out this child was in the program last year and all he did was sit on the horse and was just there along for the ride. Knowing that and seeing how he ended this term was amazing. He knew the different parts of the horse, the different equipment that goes with horseback riding and he also knew how to steer the horse but the student wasn't ready to meet that task with out us and the leader Kathy. I am sure that he would have gotten to that point if the program was a little longer. Just to know how far this he has come made me smile. What also made me smile is on the last day there his parents were there encouraging him and happy to see him on the horse. At the end of the session he ran up and gave us hugs saying thank you to us and said that he would see us next time, such a sweetie that I won't forget.

Our other rider had come very far as well. This girl was not interested in the games or the naming of the different parts of the horses/equipment. All she wanted to do was ride the horse. Her skills were amazing but we did also run into challenges with her as well. When she didn't want to do something and we had her do them she would get upset. We let her know it's because she has to be involved in all of the program, not just the riding part. We did calm her down and got her back on track but it did take some convincing. But at the end she did very well, to the point where she was steering the horse by herself down the path.

It was so amazing considering last year she was in a wheelchair. I will say that her mom was there and her mother was just as determined as her little girl. She was taking pictures and tearing up at the sight. We did get to talk to her because the little girl does not talk and we asked the mom if the little girl was going to talk. The mom answered and said she wasn't sure because the doctors said that the little girl would never walk, and she is walking, this makes you believe that anything is possible.

The last day was nice but sad because we knew they were leaving. At the end the students got their progress card and a picture of them on their horse. They in turn gave us a poster that had every one of them on it with horses in the background. We thanked them and told them we hoped to see them next year. There were tears of sadness, some was because the parents were going back to work and the children wanted to go home with their parents. Some of the kids were crying because they didn't want riding to be over. It was definitely sad for me because it is most likely that I wont be seeing/working with these kids.

We don't realize it but these kids can teach us a lot about life. They are just so sweet and amazing and I know how lucky I am to have been able to work with them. I look at the different challenges they have over come and realize that the tough days that I have, aren't as tough as their tough days could be. They are very inspiring and I know that when I meet challenges ahead in my life, I will think of them and what they had/have to over come and realize that I can handle them.

I do look forward to the next session and what new students we get to meet! :)

Our First Visitor!

A lot of you know that Dustin and I were graced with our first visitor from the US, Dustin's friend Jinsoo. We got an email about a month and a half ago letting us know that he wanted to visit us and of course we said yes. Jinsoo is a guy who has traveled to different places and has the luxury of a great work schedule. He had a layover in Hong Kong so he decided to stay there for four days before he came to visit us.

Of course knowing a person was going to stay with us I went into clean mode. I was so excited I couldn't really hide it. He arrived on a Wednesday and I knew that I wouldn't beat him to the apartment because I had RDA that day, lucky for us Dustin was off of work that day. I had a good bye lunch to attend after my RDA session to say good bye to our RDA mate Kim. She was moving back to the UK with her family and I wanted to thank her for being a wonderful person even though we have only been friends for a short time.

After I left the lunch I got really excited so instead of taking the bus I took a taxi home. Once home I was so excited to see Jinsoo because it was a familiar face in Singapore. We haven't seen him since the beach in Aug. I hurried to the shower and was just excited to go out and show Jinsoo what this City has to offer. The one thing I was appreciative of was that he brought a care package with him, the only thing I asked him to bring was pepto because I have stomach issues with some of the food here. He not only brought that but he brought food that we haven't gotten since we were home. (Yes Sophie, Kathy and Ester, I am going to Tanglen mall this weekend! LOL) I couldn't believe it and was so thankful for the package.

We wanted to show him everything about Singapore. Unfortunately Dustin could not take off work so the days that Dustin was working I tried to play tour guide the best way I knew how. We gave Jinsoo books that we accumulated about Singapore and told him to look though those and see what he wants to visit. We asked what he wanted to eat and he stated, the craziest thing Singapore has to offer. Well Singapore does have some crazy foods, especially at hawker stands so we were up for the challenge.

We took him all over. Him and Dustin walked down Orchard road, we took him to Marina Bay and Marina bay sands sky park (that was the first time we went up to the sky park) and from there we could see all of Singapore, it was beautiful. We walked to a street that was mostly Muslim because he wanted to see a Mosque, he wanted to see if we could hear the call to prayer. Little did we know that we went to the Mosque at the right time, once we got there the call started. It was the first time I heard it in person and was in awe, I thought it was so cool to witness.

I am not going to go day by day with what we did because well that's boring to read. We took him to all the spots, Chinatown, Little India, down town in the Colonial district, Orchard Towers and even the zoo. We wanted him to experience the city how we did (some times).

The food that he ate was interesting. He ordered curry fish head. Yes it is exactly what it sounds like, fish head cooked in curry. We did take away and he didn't get rice so I made some for him. I almost threw up from watching him eat the eye of the fish! It was something I will never try. The next dish I saw him eat was mixed pig organ soup. Yup, he ate a mix of pig organs, from liver to intestine. I can't believe his guts to eat what he did. When him and I went to Chinatown he decided to get frog legs. Now I use to live in Florida when I was younger, so I was familiar with frog legs, I have eaten them before but honestly have no taste for them anymore. He ate pig organ congee, pig brain soup, satay prawn, head and everything! He definitely concord his goal of eating interesting food. He did eat some things that was normal but some times not so much, but when's the next time he is going to be here? I am glad he was eating 'outside of the box'.

We did fun things like wake board, ride bikes on the east coast and him and Dustin did the extreme bungee with Dustin at Clark Quay. He also enjoyed the zoo, I enjoyed the zoo. It was one of the coolest zoos I have ever been too. They believe in natural barriers between you and the animals. The animals were beautiful and we lucked out with the weather. Jinsoo and I went out during the middle of the day and if it is bright and sunny, you are toast if you don't have proper sun protection and water. Thankfully for us it was over cast and we weren't feeling like the sun is pounding on us. But we do know that even though it is over cast we can still get burned by the sun, we are only 50 miles from the equator so I always make sure I have the proper sun protection on.

I am glad that Jinsoo came out here. Yes he did go out on his own on some days and I was kind of thankful for that because I do enjoy my 'me time' which only lasts about an hour or so, then I am ready for some company, call it selfish but I am sure there are some of you out there who enjoy their 'me time' every once in awhile too.

Having Jinsoo here reminded me of home. I don't know what it was but it made me more at ease and made me feel more at home here in Singapore. I do have to say that I have come far since the first month of arriving in Singapore. I think it had to do with the Holidays. But I am enjoying Singapore more and more, and having Jinsoo here really made me realize that. I have made lots of friends here and it makes me realize that it will be bitter sweet when we go home. I will be happy to be home but I will be leaving my Sing family behind. I know that all of us will be keeping in touch and Dustin will be making it back to Singapore for work so I am hoping that we can save up enough money to where I can tag a long with him as well so I can visit our friends.

I am looking forward to our visitors coming up. Trust me there are a lot coming. March is the month where we have a break from visitors. April we are having my high school friend Nicole and college roommate Sarah visiting us for four days (they are visiting Bangkok first) then the day they leave is the day Dustin's dad may be coming to visit us for awhile, yes he will have to work and he's been to Singapore before (D's dad works for the same company D works for) but it will be amazing to have family here. After that in May our neighbors and Matt are coming to visit us for two weeks, My co-workers and friends Jen M, Jen F and Jen F's daughter are coming in June, then Finally my co-worker and friend Kara J and her husband are coming in July, they leave for Bali two days before I leave for home. So needless to say, we are going to be busy and I can't wait to see everyone and introduce them the Singapore I have come to know and love :)

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed it!

Taste of home in a package

There have been times where Dustin and I really do miss the food back home. As I have stated before, going grocery shopping here is really expensive. When we cook at our apartment we usually cook something that we would normally cook at home, or as close as we can get to it. Just for one dinner and a possibility of one day leftovers it costs well over 50 dollars.

My friend Sophie has told me about a mall around here that does have American things. I am going to take a look but I am just not sure I want to pay twice the amount I normally would just to have the taste of home. We found Craft Mac and Cheese and it's three times more here than it is in home. We shall see when I go there later.

We have been so blessed with packages from our family and friends in the states. I never thought I would miss something as easy as mac and cheese but I do. Things like sausage, bacon and black beans. They do have Johnsonville sausages here but they are almost 10 USD and I find that outrageous, a pack of bacon is 15 USD . Just too much for me to pay, I thought I was sucking it up when I started buying things like cheese here.

Our friend Jinsoo is visiting us (he lives in Rhode Island) and he has given us a taste of home, not just in package form but just a familiar face is warming. After I got back from RDA he said that he had a package for us. We opened it up and there was a load of things from him and our friends. Instant mac and cheese (microwave), marshmallow fluff, cheese wiz, pork rhines, candy corn, jolly ranchers and then we got a new bottle of whiskey that is just now out in the us. I was amazed at all the stuff he brought over with him.

We just got an email from our neighbor about how she wanted to send us some things from home. Her daughter is a girl scout and I have been buying cookies from her since we have lived there. Now I know that is one cookie I can't get here and our neighbor told us she set aside some boxes for us and wanted to send us things. No cans but any dry goods we could think of. She too has lived over seas and knows what it is like to be so far away from everyone at home and away from the comforts that we are so use to. Such a sweet woman whom I do miss a lot.

What I am trying to say is that I am thankful for everyone who has sent us things, there are too many of you to name by name but you know who you are. You have given us comforts to us while we are here for the next 8 months. We did make it though the first couple of months and we are fine with out it but I guess it's all in our minds that if we just get a taste of home we are comforted but we can also miss home a lot more.

I know that packages cost a lot to ship over, this is why I am so surprised that so many have gotten us things that we miss. This is not bashing anyone who has not sent us anything and this is not asking for anything. I am just saying I am surprised because we were not expecting it but yet we have gotten some things from home and we are very thankful.

This trip has made Dustin and I more appreciative of the things we have at home in the US and how cheap things really are compared to other countries. We are thankful for the experience here in Singapore but once we go home, we will not miss how much it costs to have simple things like mac and cheese and beer.

Bali Trip

Bali, a place I thought I would never ever get to see other than pictures. Once we got word of us moving here we definitely wanted to travel around Asia while we were here. We are also treating our trips by ourselves like little honeymoons because that's just what they are. We aren't due to get married until Aug.4 of this year and why not have a couple of honeymoons if we can make it happen? When are we ever going to be able to do something like this again?

Once we got here we were looking for places to visit but knew we couldn't do it until the new year. Dustin's job is very demanding during the holiday season and being in his position he isn't really allowed to take time off. So after a long five months he finally was able to work in two days off of work and we took advantage.

When we first got here we asked all of our friends where the best place to stay in Bali would be. We got all sorts of answers but it really depended on what we wanted. Did we want a non stop go go go attitude or did we just want to relax and enjoy. Of course we picked relaxing and enjoying the lazy atmosphere. Our friend Rich told us that we would not be disappointed with Sanur beach. (This is about an hour away from Seminyak). Boy was Rich right, we were not disappointed.

We decided to book it though an expedia and were pleased with the outcome of the cost that included round trip flights, five star villa, and breakfast every day. It seemed like once we booked the trip it was going to take forever for the time to come but believe it or not, the vacation snuck up on us.

The airline we flew with was Singapore air. The last time we traveled with that airline was when we arrived in Singapore and we were in business class, this time around we were in economy. I will say that we got the same treatment, the seats were just smaller. It was amazing, hot towel on arrival and we got breakfast after the plane took off, and it was FREE (most likely included in the ticket price). The flight was not that long, two and a half hours, enough time for one movie.

Once we got there we had to get on arrival visas, about 20 USD each (we also had to pay to get out of Indonesia as well, about the same price). Now once they rang us up it was in Rupiahs, the receipt said 420 and I was so confused, Dustin was a good fiance and reminded me that it wasn't USD. The currency there was hard to wrap my mind around but toward the end of the trip I got a handle on it. We went though customs and security and Dustin told me that someone would be standing outside with our names on a sign waiting to pick us up. I thought that was the coolest VIP treatment ever and was excited.

Once we got out of the airport there were TONS of people with signs. Apparently we weren't VIP, we were just another visitor in Bali! It's the thought that counts and we didn't have to pay for a cab. It felt like forever but we finally found the guy with our name sign and were on our way to the Villa.

Now when most of us think about Bali we picture what Hollywood has showed us in movies. When we were on our way to the Villa we stopped at a stoplight near the airport and there were two children knocking on the window holding out their hands looking so sad. Dustin was checking his work phone so I just told him not to look out the window. Yes this was sad but we knew that the kids most likely did that on the regular (and they did because on our way back to the airport we saw the same kids).

Driving to the villa I noticed there weren't a lot of stores, nothing flashy except a Cartier store. There were few gas stations, but they were Circle K's so that was familiar. There were little stores along the road with Absolute Vodka bottles filled with something that was not vodka, it was gas for the MILLIONS of scooters and motor bikes that everyone was using for transportation. Once we got to our Villa I was in awe.

This is what I had been picturing. It was so beautiful. We got there and had our bags taken to our villa and got everything squared away at the front desk. We opened our door and just were in amazement. The pool was beautiful, outdoor living area and then the villa was just a huge bed with a bathroom and changing area. The shower was outdoors, which was weird to see but so wonderful to use, so freeing, until a helicopter came over our villa the next day and I was showering (gulp) and that was the only day it did that. The bed was covered in rose peddles and we even had a cake! We unloaded and just enjoyed the room for a bit of time until we decided we should go walk around and see what this town was all about, that and we were out of beer and so was the room service.

One thing we noticed is that there were a lot of dogs just running around the streets. They did have homes but we weren't sure where. I was hesitant at first, especially at night. All the dogs did was bark at us and that was about it. We also noticed that the little mini marts or store fronts were a part of someone's house. It was like the garage was converted into a store that just sold cold drinks, snacks and some sold gas for the motor bikes. You could see the villa's behind the store but not really sure what they looked like.

When we got onto the main road boy was it hard to cross the street. There were no crosswalks and no one stopped for anything. The sidewalks were bumpy and we noticed that we were being beeped at a lot. Just ignoring it we just walked around and noticed the shops and restaurants. We picked up some beer and headed back to the Villa. We got dressed and ready for dinner. We looked up a restaurant my places app and found the Wicked Parrot. According to the google map it was right along the same street of our Villa.

We decided to venture out and check it out. As we were walking it got scary. It was dark, hardly any light and the random dogs were around and to add to that low flying bats! We walked what seemed forever and never found the place and walked out to the main road and realized that we walked really far. The sidewalks were really dangerous, parts of them were falling into huge gaping holes and again, not much light.

We finally made it back to the road that we walked around earlier and settled for Jimmy's bar to eat and have a couple of beers. Beers there were 18,000 dollars which was basically 4 USD and the food was about 30,000. Lets put it this way 50,000 is about 5.50 USD. We both had an Indonesian classic, Megorang which consisted of noodles and spices and bits of chicken. We have had it here in Singapore but it had a Muslum twist on it with different Indian spices. The Indonesian style was SO good, the best I have had yet. We even had some Satay with it which is chicken or beef on a stick grilled over smoldering coals. It was amazing and after about 6 beers and two entrees we spent 20 USD, we were amazed considering Singapore was so expensive, that meal alone in Singapore would cost around 70 USD (because of beer). Once we were done we decided to head back to the villa and get some rest.

The next day we ventured out to the beach. The cool and safe thing the villa offered was that we could leave our room key with the front desk for safe keeping. They also offered a ride to the beach but we just decided to walk. The heat was intense and I was dripping sweat half way there (it was only an eight minute walk) so we stopped for a beer before we headed down. Once we got to the beach I had no words. It was so beautiful. You saw mountains in the distance and clear water. We walked around and took some pictures and then decided to take a dip into the ocean. I feared it was going to be cold but it was not, it was bath water and so clear.

After the beach we went back and showered and enjoyed the pool and reading. We knew we had to find dinner so we decided to ask the front desk about the Wicked Parrot. One of the men knew where it was and we decided to walk there. It was ten minutes and totally on the wrong street than what google maps told us. We had beers and the BEST Satay we have had to date. We were also surprised with a live band, and you know us, we love live bands. So we enjoyed some beers food and music.

One thing I did forget to tell you is that it is the rainy season in Bali but thankfully it only rained at night. So after the band was down and we basically shut the place down (closed at 12p) we noticed it was POURING outside. So we got to stick around until it lightened up. While we did we met the owner and talked with him and the band. We found that the owner had lived in Bali for 40 years, amazing. The rain lightened and we headed back and got some rest.

As a part of the honeymoon package we were able to get a massage and that included a chocolate scrub and a candle lit dinner. We scheduled that and thoroughly enjoyed the two hours and then were looking forward to the dinner. The dinner was wonderful. We chose one western meal and one Indonesian meal. It was fantastic!

We also wanted to do an excursion while we were there. Ever since I have been in Asia I have wanted to ride an elephant, I don't know why, I just wanted to. Dustin looked up some things and found a reasonable price for an elephant safari. What we liked about it is that they would provide transportation, lunch and we got to feed the Elephants. Also the elephants that were there were rescued.

I was so excited. When we got there we ate lunch and then got ready to go for a ride. We noticed that the elephants that were not giving rides were chained in a section in the park, I didn't really like it but again they were rescued so I know they need to learn and something could go wrong if not supervised. The people who were on the elephants guiding them had little hooks and they would tap on the elephants head, I didn't like this at all. Our elephant decided he wanted to stop for some munchies and the person put the hook in it's ear to turn it's head away. I cringed because I didn't want this to happen thinking they were hurting the elephant. That was the only time our elephant decided to relax and have a bite to eat. After riding we got to feed them. Dustin just took pictures so I fed them and loved it. I had my hand flat (like feeding a horse) just in case. I wasn't sure what it would feel like, the trunk was not soft, but I can't really explain the feeling, it was so cool! I really did have a fun time and it was an incredible experience.

The rest of our time was spent by the pool, shopping and going out for dinner. While we were out one day for beers we met up with some Australians who were from Perth. We have friends here in Singapore and they are also from Perth. We all got to talking and drinking and found out that the oldest one was 23. There were two 23 year olds and the rest were 20. Wow did this make us feel old, but it was fun and we were not sober when we went back to the villa, definitely good times.

What we learned in Bali:

The shop owners/workers are very aggressive. They come up to you and say "Hello, want to come into my shop, yes" If you say no they say okay when you come back, maybe tomorrow. Same with massages on the beach, they will not leave you alone. The last day we were there they came up to us on the beach (on beach bar by the ocean) and introduced themselves and wouldn't leave our tables and we didn't want to be rude but damn sometimes you have to be.

We figured out what the honking was all about. Most were taxis, they spelled it taksi, and they would honk at you to see if you needed a ride. There were also freaky vans parked asking if we needed a ride anywhere. One guy was really scary, with a mean face pointing aggressively at us and then motioning for us to get in the van, eek! It was also the scooters honking so the cars knew that there was a small group coming behind them.

The scooters/motor bikes were the main transportation of everyone. To the point where there were more than two people on the scooter. Sometimes there were families of four on there. The dad would be driving, kid standing infront of him, kid sitting behind him and mom on the end. We also saw moms with babies, yes a mom had a baby in a baby sling on her chest, driving down the crazy streets of Bali. The drivers there were crazy. No one stayed in their lane and if you were trying to cross the street, you needed to do it fast. I almost got hit twice, no one slows down!

The dogs that were roaming around the town were most likely owned. They have freedom to run around and always have a home to go back to. This also means that they do their business anywhere. Dustin actually stepped in some business, the way he figured it out was that something was poking him on his foot, nothing came though the flipflop but something was there. He discovered dog business AND a dog tooth in the business, EWWW. Thankfully he scraped off the business on the sidewalk edge and pulled the tooth out, and I had my anti bacteria wipes and he washed his hands after. Yeah nasty. But for the most part the dogs were well behaved, they played with each other and would bark at you but nothing scary.

Everything there to buy was cheap. We got two t-shirts for 10 usd, other gifts for people and I got a cute purse for about 5 usd. The food and beer were also a great price, something we haven't been use to in a while.

The place we went to was very nice, relaxing. No one really bothered us and the people at our villa were so wonderful. It was an experience of a life time. We were so lucky to have had this opportunity and hope to go back before we head back to the states for good. We took tons of pictures and will never forget this wonderful trip. We can not wait for more travel experiences!