Random thoughts...

It has been a great week since my last post and have been able to experience Singapore more closely. It has been fun and interesting to see the culture differences from what we are all used to having.  From silly stuff like Heinz Ketchup, Ranch Dressing and Crystal Light to more important things like napkins!  I never knew how important these items are to me.  In Singapore, napkins are a luxury.  Many places don't offer you one and some will charge you to have one.  One of the things they are known for here are Chili Crabs (see picture).  They are these huge Sri Lanka crabs which are cooked in this awesome chili sauce that you dip these bread buns in.  It is VERY messy and worth it but they don't give you any damn napkins!  We got one small wetnap and you could go over to these sinks and wash your hands as needed.  So crazy...

Joe and I have also been venturing out with the car.  Although he drives to work everyday, he has not been out in the city much.  I'm telling you these people drive crazy.  And motorcycles don't have to drive in the lanes.  You can be driving side by side in cars going down the road and then a motorcycle can sneak up between you at any time.  Scares you to death and I have yet to figure out how there are not dead bodies and bikes lying all over the streets.  We have nearly hit four or five and have only been driving two weeks! 

We have finally hit the jackpot with grocery stores and have found the real deal.  They have a lot of American products and depending on the area, will depend on how many you can find.  They are always busy and the home delivery service sounds even better after you have gone.  However, it is one of those things you have to go and experience a few times so you can figure out the brands that you want.  Most of the grocery stores are located within malls so it is like going to the Galleria and doing your grocery shopping.  Parking in garages and then finding your way to the store.  The one thing they have mastered is the grocery carts.  You have to put a coin in to release the cart and then you have to return it to get the coin back.  Alleviates a lot of random carts being strewn around the parking lots. 

So, here are my top findings this week:

• It is very important to keep your toes well pedicured and always wear slide on shoes.  It is expected to remove your shoes before entering homes.  As we have been out looking at places to live, Joe learned the hard way that tennis shoes are not that convenient.
• Be kind to the Asian drivers back in the states!  They are confused by all the straight streets and roads!  They are used to people running into their lanes and sneaking up on the sides of their cars.  Should clearly explain the stereotype.
• Don't ever listen to the young Asian kid at the video store for movie recommendations.  Zombieland is not an awesomly funny movie.
• And most importantly, keep napkins in your purse!

I think that is it for now!  I hope everyone is doing great!