Penang, Malaysia

Went to Penang last weekend for a three day venture with an American, 3 Aussie's and a Brit. I can't understand half the things they say, but pretended and it all seemed to workout ;)
We didn't have the best luck with food ventures, but once we did find food-it was pretty stinkin' good. I am trying my hardest to be open-minded and try new things and so far, I haven't gotten sick which is HUGE for me.
We almost got attacked by 14 monkey's on a beach which was scary at the time, but if we did get attacked, it would have been a funny story to tell now...darn. The people were really nice and friendly, especially the children. Things were really cheap and they had some cool buildings, markets and a hoppin' nightlife full of terrible techno music, karaoke, and women who were really men :)
I am grateful for the opportunities to see some really cool places and learn a lot about myself (and deal with my OCD on a whole new level).
One week down, five weeks to go before I come home and dominate American with hugs and kisses.
Off to Hong Kong this weekend...xoxo

Singapore Update

Day Three in Singapore: I am no longer jet-lagged, but still "old", as I am ready for bed at 8 pm! I literally feel asleep at a restaurant, on the train, and on a set of golf clubs standing upright (I know right!). I have had lots of free time to explore, and only got lost once. I can't explain how good and abundant the food options are! Although Kris and I are amazing cooks (and made awesome dinners twice), it's fun to eat out. The grocery shopping takes patience and a black American Express credit card limit. Items that are super cheap in the states (fun to say "the states") and expensive here are canned tuna, all fruits & vegetables, oatmeal, cheese (a block of Tillamook was $17.00!!) and well, everything else too :)

You literally can't look further than ten feet without seeing 532 of the world's largest shopping centers-they are endless, maze-like and full of temptation. There are familiar places like Forever 21, Gap, Auntie Anne's, Outback Steakhouses, Kenny Roger's Roasters! but no Targets, unfortunately. There are more coffee shops here than anywhere else in the world, I would put American money on it.

I played indoor golf last night, went crazy in Ikea, assembled said Ikea furniture & have a blister and an upside down dresser to prove it, mopped the white marble floors four times, found the cheapest wine on the island at $13.90 (I promise I don't drink Grandma!) and lounged by the pool only once so far. I take the train everywhere possible but cabs are nice here because you don't have to tip! Ever!

Six of us Expats (expatriates) are leaving for Penang (Malaysia) tomorrow for fun in the sun! Update you when we get back!

Making another "home"...

I am going to make a conscious effort to BLOG to keep family and friends in the crazy fun loop that will be my life.
I am moving to Singapore Sunday, June 19th and will be returning for my brother's wedding August 12th, and then moving back in October after a close friend's wedding.
I would like to thank LIFE for giving me this unique, fortunate opportunity to live outside the good ol' USA. I never dreamed this big, I never actually thought I would vacation outside the USA let alone LIVE.
I am sincerely thankful for the support I have received from my amazing Mother, Grandparents, Dad, sister, brother, sister-in-law, crazy cousins/aunts/uncles/animals, friends and Kris and his wonderful, loving family.
I love my life, I love living it and I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for this small town country girl from Ohio.