Singapore Snippets - July 8

Singapore 101: When it Rains, it POURS! If you take a look at the extended forecast on any given day for Singapore, it predicts warm air and scattered thunderstorms. Funny, the locals don't bat an eyelash when the thunders booms (though it's caused us to jump a time or two). Couple of drops of rain, though, and watch out: all of the sudden, the heavens open and the water falls in sheets! Most carry a handy umbrella for just such an occurrence. But when you haven't yet gotten into the habit of carrying one, a large tropical leaf will have to do.

Missing a friend from Peoria:

This is how my conversation with Jenna went the other morning (a day or two after I showed her some of your recent pics):
J: "Do you know who loves me the most?"
K: "Yes! Mommy and Daddy" (followed by God, Jesus, grandpas and grandmas, every relative I could think of, Mrs. Sherri, etc.)
J: "Yes, but who else loves me the most?"
K: "I don't know, Jenna, who?"
... J: "Miss Anita!!!!" :-)

So, there you have it. Far away, but not far from her heart. You know how some people look at the moon to reconnect? She's got you thru Ronald.

"...into each life some rain must fall," wrote Longfellow. Today was THAT day for the Campbells. We woke in eager anticipation of finally receiving our sea shipment. Our joy quickly turned to dismay as we watched box after sopping wet box being gingerly taken out of the container. A series of holes detected in the "roof", where rain and sea water could have leaked in, look like the cause of t...he sodden mess. Mold, warping, discoloration, and a total wash on a number of items (including some furniture) was the sad result. In the process, it started raining, so this poor guy clambored up onto the top of the moving truck to plug the holes and stop more water from leaking in. We shall stay positive, though, because, really, it's just STUFF.

Update: Good News! We have by no means unloaded every box in the house, but of the ones that had obvious water damage, the total destruction is less than anticipated. Chalk it up to providence, plastic totes, and the packers' incredibly large use of plastic wrapping/bubble wrap for saving all but two pieces of furniture and misc pictures/clothing/shoes/toys, etc. Maybe a 7-10% loss, total. Could have been loads worse! :)

Singapore 101: The Island's Best-Kept Secret: Free Pedicures! Okay, well, minus the nail polish. But hey, in the land of flip-flops and pedestrian-friendly living, tired dogs need a little extra TLC. Two hours beings scrubbed in sand and small pebbles at the East Coast Park is just the ticket....(cream to come later)