Simmering in Singapore

We got our first hint of the change in climate, as we landed in Changi International Airport: the ground was wet after yet another thunder shower. When the glass doors slid open and we ventured into the taxi area, the air was so heavy we could almost taste it. After so many dry weeks in Bangkok, the hot and humid weather in Singapore is indeed a change.

It took a while for me to get used to this place, which seemed even noisier and more crowded than Bangkok. I had a lot of excitement seeing unfamiliar friendly faces the last few days: family friends, cousins, god-siblings, church fellows. The loud music and jostling crowds at the arcade were a bit intimidating at times, but it was fun watching people dancing, shooting balls, hitting drums and pulling little sticks. Little wonder that I have had to take naps twice a day to keep myself refresh and recharged, when I usually take only a nap of one to two hours back home in Bangkok.

Last night, Janelle asked for a special pre-birthday treat: to go singing at a Karaoke with Andre, god-sister Carissa and god-brother Keanu. The adults were somewhat concerned and triple-checked everything at the K Box near Ang Mo Kio Central, where we were staying. While they sang the night away, we went for dinner at the nearby food centre, where I slurped lots of Hokkien Mee. Mommy and Po Po (Carissa and Keanu's granny) kept yakking away, so Daddy and I played catch. When he got tired, he relented and let me have my first ride on a battery powered car. Well, it was not quite the same free bird experience as the other kids, since Daddy was the real "driver" using the remote controls.

Here's the "happy" bunch after a night of torturing one another with their fabulous Susan Boyle impressions...

I am far more aware of and enjoying this festive season with my family and friends in Singapore. Christmas is arriving in a few days, and our visit schedule is packed with lunch and dinner dates. We hope to see as many people as we can, before we fly home next Monday. Here's wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!