Lovin' the Married Life

NEW BLOG

2010-01-11T11:01:00.001+08:00

Hubs and I have a new blog to folllow.....www.teamdill.blogspot.com
Hope you all enjoy!!
Happy new year!

CHRISTMAS IS COMING!

2009-12-08T07:28:00.003+08:00

I love love love, love Christmas! I have been in such the holiday spirit (except for a few hours yesterday afternoon).
One of my favorite parts about Christmas is all the decorations....everywhere. At home, lights on the house, a pretty mis-matched ornamented tree, sparkly glittery red gold silver green things....I love it all.

I love all the presents. I was very spoiled growing up...my Mom does not believe in gift bags and therefore she can wrap the most beautiful present ever! She's even better than the people that get hired to do it at the mall & dept stores. The power of a perfectly wrapped Christmas package is amazing. It makes you feel so warm & special inside. Like Santa really delivered it himself.

I love ALL the food & candy & treats. Just by cooking for Thanksgiving over here, I realize how much work all the ladies in the family put into making it even better with such awesome goodies. Mmmm maybe Matt will let us have some eggnog & peppermint bark from WS. The best for sure!

I love the cheer and happiness & time spent with good family & friends. People randomly stopping by the house cause they were in the neighborhood.
My parents did the best job as we were growing up. My Dad (cause he's such an amazing guy) always takes a Christmas Ham to ol' Mrs....soandso (I cant remember her name)....he has been taking her a ham for the past 20+yrs on Christmas Eve....always part of the routine. What a great guy. Its probably the only ham her family eats every year. She is an older woman & I believe has a decent size family. Anyways, how does that nice story not put a little smile on your face & Christmas cheer in your heart??

It will definitely be here before we know it & be gone just as fast. So enjoy it while you can!

LUCKY WIFE

2009-12-04T10:34:00.003+08:00

Our 1 year anniversary is coming up in less than a month now.....27 days to be exact. Feels great. I love being married to Matt. We really were meant to be together. It amazes me everyday how well we work together; I never thought I could be so close to someone who is not only a great husband but the greatest friend I've ever had.
I feel like the luckiest girl in the world! And I love our love!
I cant wait to get settled back in Tulsa with Matt & feel like we are really at home....ahhh!

MENU FOR THIS WEEK:

2009-11-23T11:20:00.003+08:00

With Thanksgiving coming up this week, I'd thought I'd share my menu. It's hard finding everything here, especially when your food budget isnt $1000!! It can sure get expensive. But with that said, I've managed to get ahold of the basics & some extras. So here is menu, recipes inlcuded :)
1. Roasted whole chicken from Jason's market deli (turkey is the price over here)
2. Pumpkin pie (recipe on can)
3. Stuffing (Stove Top, follow directions on box)
4. Sausage Cheese Balls:
What you need:
2-3 Tbsp milk
3 C. Bisquick
1 lb. breakfast sausage
2 C. grated or shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
Mix Bisquick with milk and squish together with sausage. Then add cheese
Shape into small balls. Bake 350 degrees F ~15 minutes.
5. Indian relish:
What you need:
2 diced red bell peppers
1 diced red onion
1 C. white vinegar
1 Tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 C sugar
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in saucepan. Simmer for 30 minutes. Refrigerate 2
hours or overnight. Serve with sour cream or cream cheese & ritz crackers.
6. My secret salsa recipe:
What you need:
2 red bell peppers
1 package of tomatoes or 3 large tomatoes
1 large onion
1 16 oz can diced tomatoes
1 red chile pepper or jalapeno pepper
2 Tbsp cumin seeds
2 Tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
2 Tbsp lime juice
2 Tbsp white vinegar or olive oil
1 Tbsp minced garlic
Several cilantro leaves
Directions:
Chop/tomatoes, onion and pepper in food processor until
chunky liquid forms. Add seasonings. Refrigerate 2 hours before serving.
7. Chocolate Rum Balls:
What you need:
3.5 C of crumbled vanilla wafers
1.5 C powdered sugar
1 C chopped pecans
1/4 C. cocoa
1/4 C. light or dark rum, bourbon, etc....(whatever you prefer to use)
1/3 C lie karo syrup.
Directions:
Mix crumbs with 1 C of powder sugar, pecans & cocoa. Stir in rum & syrup.
Shape into small 1" balls & roll in the remaining powdered sugar. Store
in an airtight container. Best if made a few days in advance!
Hope everyone has a lovely Thanksgiving, filled with tasty food, family, fun and friends!
Cheers!

"LOVIN' THIS" list

2009-11-16T10:26:00.003+08:00

LOVIN':
1. My husband for sure....he is the absolute best! Just everything :)
2. Maxwell food court....to bad we never hopped over there sooner.
3. Jerry's BBQ on Club Street....Mmmm mmmmm yum!
4. The fact that we are closer & closer to the holidays & coming home!
5. Staying up late with Matt & hanging out. So fun!
6. Remembering really funny things/stories/events that happened etc...
7. Going to the grocery store & getting to fix home made dinner any night we want
8. My housewife role.....who else gets to play house when they are newlyweds. I am learning so much how to be a wife & feel very fortunate not to have any job stress, kid stress, etc right on top of that. Its nice just 'being".
9. My family.....they cant get any better or have bigger hearts :0
10. Karma.....paybacks are a bitch. I definitely God has a plan for us and I firmly believe we will be judged one day for our actions in our life. It is tough sometimes to keep your chin up, but you have to believe whatever you are going through is only going to make you stronger. And as for the others, eh...they'll have their day.
11. My life :) It's the best.

I'M WONDERING WHERE IT COMES FROM....?

2009-11-13T13:59:00.003+08:00

Why do people give un-solicited advice? It always comes across as if they are telling you what to do and how to run your life. I always wish I could say, if I wanted your opinion, I would ask for it.
But how do you say that to someone? What if a person is being rude? Do you confront them or just be passive & let it slide by?
Certain people I think I'm more confrontational with. Others, I just let their pile of b.s build up until i cant stand it & then vent to a friend with similar circumstances.
I know we all think we have the answers to everyone else's life & problems. But we actually DONT.
I know sometimes I give advice....but its usually in good spirits. I just dont appreciate it because I'm nearly 30 years old & still have people trying to tell me how to run my life. Or trying to make plans for me, without any consideration of what I may want or NOT want to do.
So for those who may read this....maybe consider what you are saying to someone the next time you offer any "advice". And I'll be sure to watch my mouth as well :)

PAPERWORK....AND TONS OF IT!!

2009-11-10T10:13:00.003+08:00

Today I am knee-deep in paperwork!
I am trying to make heads-or-tails of customs paper work. Luckily it all came with instuctions :) Oh goodie. I thought I would try to take as much stress of Matt's hands as possible. Man, I could use some glasses....yikes! (Note to self: eyedr for us BOTH when we get settled).
Also, in my previous post I mentioned tweeking my resume & stuff and have officially been on the job hunt....as much as I can from abroad.
So....that is all the update for now. Got to finish this stuff before lunch, so I can go to the store, so I can fix dinner, so everyone can have a happy tummy tonight. But, not before I clean the apt and try to fit in a nice workout. Ugh....exhaustion setting in!!

WORKIN HARD BUT HARDLY WORKIN

2009-11-04T09:23:00.004+08:00

Decided I needed a new update.
Been working on my professional portfolio (ie: cover letter & resume). Since I have a professional husband who can help tweek my work, why not?
Hoping to get back to work in Tulsa at the start of the new year. Possibilities are endless, I'll just have to see where God takes me.

BECAUSE I CAN

2009-11-03T06:55:00.003+08:00

Because I can, and no one that really actually cares is going to read this. Just need to vent about what a horrible, ridiculous company my husband works for. Let's just say they dont even deserve to have him as an employee....he's far superior than their everyday BS. I never knew one company could have so many (insert every bad name word here) working under one roof (or 3 for that matter).
I really despise the fact that thats where our means of living comes from, but really? Give me a freaking break!! And they wonder why we want to come home so bad?!?!

Ok, now thats off my chest, no more worrying, negativity, etc...about Matt's job or the incompetent idiots he has to work with every day :)

Stay positive, because we never know what God has in store for us. Maybe this is a blessing in disguise.

HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY

2009-10-30T09:03:00.004+08:00

A Happy 10 months to my wonderful husband!!
I cannot believe how fast 10 months have flown by! WOW. I am so grateful for you & everything you do for us. You are truly the greatest! I am looking forward to what the future holds (hint hint, I would like a dog for Christmas) and to many, many more years with you!

And a Happy Halloween to everyone this weekend!

BUSY BUSY BUSY

2009-10-28T09:56:00.003+08:00

You would not believe but I have 95% of Christmas presents figured out. HA! I have to though. Yes, everything about Christmas is coming extra-early this year and frankly I'm fine with that.

Matt & I have had a case of the yuckies all week. Maybe its just a stomach bug. One day its me, the next day its him. Who knows!! But its just yucky.

So we pretty much have all things set up to come. Had our pre-move survey yesterday, have flights booked, 1 out of 2 hotels booked, etc... Matt has been doing an awesome job considering all the stress he's been under trying to get everything worked out plus do his job, before we get back.

Post more when I have time.....today I'm yucky. And looking up tons of stuff regarding our insurance & changes that are being made....ugh! Can't live with it, can't live without it!

AND ITS NOT EVEN HALLOWEEN

2009-10-21T12:33:00.004+08:00

One of the malls here in Singapore is already decorated with Christmas garland....complete with red bows and little white lights.
Sure, it put me in a festive mood & a little cheery knowing we will be coming home for good at Christmas! But it was still a little weird since it's not even Halloween yet. Hmm...
Oh well....until then we'll be celebrating the appropriate holidays around here :)

BEEN A ROUGH WEEK

2009-10-16T07:25:00.003+08:00

So the Dills have had a bit of a rough week back in Singapore.
On top of not feeling well due to nasty colds & jet-lag, things seem to be going against us.
Matt's co-worker let the cat out of the bag about us moving back before Matt had a chance to get his team together & tell them himself. He apparently was supposed to be working on something & turns out nobody ever mentioned anything to him. Uh-oh. I, on the other hand, have had a hard time communicating with people over here & its left me nowhere but completely frustrated.
So...with all that off my chest, I can honestly say thank goodness it is Friday!!
We have our standing lunch date today & will be joining Scott (Matt's co-worker from Wales) for some happy hour time & some dinner. It will definitely be low-key but fun :)
Looking forward to a great weekend for sure!

OHHHH..............FRUSTRATION

2009-10-13T12:35:00.004+08:00

Let's just say that I had a bit of a verbal exchange with a bus driver.

Where else in the world would some M.E. JERK try to lecture me on how to get on the bus. No, I dont think its necessary to wave at you that I want on, when you are sitting parked, doors open, and other people are in a line in front of me getting on.

RE-CAP:

1. No need to wave when the bus is sitting idle, doors, open, people getting on.

2. No need to say something to me, and no one else.

3. And next time, after we've pushed the button to get off, open the doors without me having to tell you to do so. JERK.

And I'd really like an explanation as to why you picked ME to say something to?

Ahhh nothing like being thousands of miles away from home, getting stares all day, and lectures by middle eastern creeps who FEEL the urge to say something, anything to you. Even when they are WRONG.

All it takes it 1 rotten apple to spoil the whole bunch. Definitely not a good representation of Singapore :(

COULDNT HAVE IT BETTER

2009-10-11T10:51:00.003+08:00

Have to give some ultra kuddos to my husband, he has been such a great guy to take care of me & my cold/sinus issues.....I think I've slowly passed them along to him. Ugh.We decided that is the hardest part of being married.....getting sick & passing the yuckies back & forth.
Oh well. I'm sure its almost out of my system :(-
Fingers crossed here, lots of meds, and Vitamin C
More to come soon!

NO NO FEEL GOOD

2009-10-09T21:30:00.003+08:00

I wish I could have a sinusectomy.....why do I even need sinuses????
Mine are filling my head, nose, cavities with tons of green snot. YUCK!
And worst of all, flying with congestion is not fun (God bless Matt) and now my right ear wont pop.
YUCKY......
More to come later, details of visits, etc.....when I feel better <:(--

THINGS I LOVE RIGHT NOW

2009-08-24T16:37:00.003+08:00

Here are some of the things I'm loving right now:

Songs:
1. Kelly Rowland-When Love Takes Over
2. Beyonce-Halo
3. Beyonce-If I Were a Boy
4. Cyndi Lauper-All Through the Night
5. Janet-If
6. Akon-Na na na song

Food:
1. Anything HOT and SPICY!
2. Sugarcane juice WITH lemon (almost like lemonade)
3. Dumplings and dim sum of just about any kind
4. Matt's home-made margaritas
5. Coffee....b/c I'm not sure either of us would make it through the morning or afternoon without it

Websites:
1. Funny or Die....any episode with Zach Galifinakas...however you spell his name
2. Facebook
3. The Knot, The Nest, and The Bump (no I'm not, but someone else I know is).
4. Pottery Barn
5. Party America.....I just want to buy those moustaches but Matt wont wear them
6. My gmail
7. Matt's facebook or emails, I love to post sweet notes to him :)

Ok-enough for now. Trying to ignore the anxiety of coming home....is the week over yet??? HA. Right.

GETTING READY

2009-08-24T13:34:00.003+08:00

Why does it seem that no matter how far in advance or how prepared I feel it seems like something always comes up right before we are travelling?
I thought I was going to prepare & have ALL this stuff done & I really dont. What in the heck have I been focusing on?
Oh well. All is fair in love and life, right? We will make it...somehow! Ha, ok I'm being a bit dramatic.
Let's just hope everything can get done in time! That will make for a very relieved housewife....keepin my fingers crossed we pack everything we need for the next month!

1 WEEK TO GO!

2009-08-21T10:24:00.002+08:00

So we have 1 week to go until we are ready to come home. Can you believe how it's crept up on us?!
With that said here are some random thoughts.....

1. What is Matt's group going to do while we are gone. I think Charis (bless her, THE only girl) may be coming to the States for some training. Heussein is supposed to, but we'll find out if he gets the Visa clearance. Yanni will NEVER be able to come to the US....he's Burmese & his Dad also works in aerospace for the gov't (or military junta...whatever you want to call it). And Allen will probably just receive some training here in Singapore.
I know they will miss my baking & the special nights when we all go out somewhere together. How could you miss a chance to see what crazy things Matt's wife has been up to & what kind of weird questions she'll ask this time. I know Heussein prays I dont ask him to teach me phrases in Chinese. God bless them they really are so sweet.

2. I am sooo anxious to get back & do some decorating. all this shopping online to see what is out there has me itchin' to get home!

3. On our way back from HK we stopped at the duty free & got ourselves some Tequila...and yesterday I bought mix and we had ourselves a little fiesta last night. Seriously, I had no idea Matt needed a margarita so bad. He LOVES them.

4. Got some shopping to do this weekend & lots of preparations just to make sure we have everything we need for the much-needed-long-trip-home!! Should be fun & busy busy.

5. We are trying to get-together with some close friends & family & I'm also throwing a baby shower. So that, on top of trying to completely decorate & furnish our house should keep me super busy. Thats really what all this down time has been about :) Relaxing & preparations. Cause I have a feeling it's going to be chaos from the moment we hit US soil!!

6. Been takin' back to the good days music lately...some Janet & Cyndi Lauper....gawsh I could reply these songs all day long! Love them! I miss the really good music.

7. Lunch date today with hubs....so excited its Friday. Lau Pa Sat for dinner. YUMMY! Cannot wait.

Here's to us starting the weekend & a countdown to coming home via a short stop in Tokyo! See you all soon!!
Cheers!

TIME IS A FLYING BY....

2009-08-19T07:04:00.003+08:00

Time seems to be flying by so fast lately. For instance, where did June & July go?

Matt took me on an awesome adventure to HK & I am finally recovered this morning (after a much needed cup o' coffee). I had a horrible headache yesterday and just felt lethargic.

And now it is 2 weeks until we are back in the States & I just cannot wait! I have lots of packing & planning to do until then. I am son excited to get back HOME. And do some wedding stuff, some shopping, some decorating, some party hostin'.....all the good stuff. There's definitely nothing like family & friends!

ON MY MIND

2009-08-11T15:29:00.002+08:00

I am sooo ready to come. Lots to do before then & I wish it would all hurry up and get here!!
Got a few things planned while we are back in town & I am very anxious to see my family & friends.
7 months without a trip home feels alot longer than it probably is.
Anyways, I've pretty much made all my lists of what I need and things to do....just ready to start getting them checked off!
I'm also excited for our trip to HK this weekend. We've been in the airport a few times, but have not had a real stay. I cant wait. It's going to be so much fun. I love traveling & doing new (and old) things with Matt! He's absolutely the best!

WHERE TO START......

2009-08-06T07:06:00.002+08:00

1. Ok a%$holes.....I'm so tired of hearing about gunmen shooting up people in public areas/private homes and being such cowards, such psychos that they turn the gun on themselves. I mean come on! If you are going to shoot a bunch of people, dont chicken out at the end & turn the gun on yourself. Let somebody else do it. Come to Singapore, let them cane your ass or hang you. PUH-LEASE! It just makes me so sick.

2. Had a wonderful dinner last night with Rex & Lisa, an American couple that lives in our apt complex. Ahh....so I cannot tell you how nice it is to be able to laugh & talk with people who are similar to us. ALOT of expats over here are weirdos....really. I mean there is a reason my museum job didnt work out....who tells you to look up directions via google maps? Anyways, they were so sweet, down to earth & willing to let us pick their brains on just about everything.

3. CAN NOT wait for tomorrow to get here & the weekend. It seems like this week has been rolling along at SNAIL SPEED! Tonight Matt has his first fitting for his custom made suit & it will be ready next week. I am so excited for him! (ps- everything in Singapore is either CAN or CAN NOT....there is no yes or no).

4. Go town hallers featured on FoxNews from yesterday.....awesome. Let the people working for us in government know how unhappy we are. Talk about an idea back-firing. whoa!! It's a mess....I'd better not get into politics, but let's just say that I have been tempted to write letters to the White House numerous times. (yes, the White House, along with the FAA).

5. Which brings me to my next point, I am *freaked* out of my mind to get on an airplane & travel. I know Matt will always keep us safe, etc... But seriously FAA!! Get your crap & the crap of those you govern together. Inspections & maintenance are KEYS to why there are problems with these planes. We should be flying safer today than ever before, yet we seem to be having more crashes (or as Matt tells me, we are just made aware of it more, hmm...)

6. On the hunt for a sexy black pencil mermaid skirt I have seen the girls oer here wearing. It will probably make my booty bigger than Kim Kardashian, but I NEED it!!

GOING TO GET BUSY SOON

2009-08-03T08:57:00.003+08:00

We are about to get really busy....I posted our schedule on Pineapple Rice blog. Starting in 2 weeks until the end of the year is going to be just like last fall/winter with lots of trips back & forth....God please keep us and our family & friends safe on ALL our flights. (We watched air crash investigation yesterday...totally freaked me out to see a plane burn into flames @ 35k feet).

We are venturing over to Hong Kong....sort of for my birthday, but really b/c we think we are also coming back in November for business....so not too much time to travel and because we have so many miles saved up, it's a free trip for both of us. Crazy huh. And we also found a hotel that looks really awesome that has a birthday special, with all kinds of discounts and extras thrown in including a 1lb birthday cake). So why not?!?!
Then on our way home in September we are spending the night and half a day in Tokyo.....since it is on our way back! Gots to get it all in! Wish we had more time for Tokyo, but thats alright.
As far as I'm concerned we'll be doing pretty well since we have already visited Bintan, Indonesia. And Langkawi & Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Add Hong Kong and Tokyo to that list, might as well consider us experts on travel in Asia.....Ps-the toilets suck! (for women at least).

So for now, I am gong to take advantage of the down time and enjoy using the laptop from the comfort of our bed.
This week we have lots to pick up; my dress should be done at the alteration shop, Matt ordered new contacts, and he has his 1st official fitting for his custom made suit we ordered. So exciting!
More to come later-

OUT OF THE LOOP

2009-07-30T08:23:00.003+08:00

Since it's been forever since we've been home, I need just a little help. I don't even know what songs are popular anymore.
So help me out & tell me whats on the radio these days.
Cause all I know is in Singapore ALL I hear is Rhianna, Lady Gaga and Beyonce.
Help. Please. Need the updates, so I can sing along when driving in car (gawsh, its been awhile since I've done that) or when cleaning at home, or in the shower or when I need to impress husband with singing skills (ok who am I kidding, I cant sing).
But still, do let me know what your favorites are right now!
Cheers :)

2009-07-28T06:52:00.002+08:00

Hmmmm...where to start?
Well a few things on my mind this morning::
1. I hope Matt has a good day at work today and the rest of the week. Yesterday was a difficult day and I just hope and pray that he can manage to get some things worked out before we leave.
2. A friend I have had since back in college at OSU has a Dad that is very ill & in the hospital with what sounds like heart & colon issues. Send some prayers Lea Ann's way for sure.
3. I hope Matt & I can give all the love and support to family who need us.
4. I've been thinking about cupcakes with delicious icing....not sure where this is coming from.
5. Thinking of starting a scrapbook of our times in Singapore....its going to be huge, I have lots and lots of ideas.
6. Am more and more anxious every day to get back home and am very excited for our short stop over in Singapore.

READY FOR CHRISTMAS

2009-07-23T06:51:00.002+08:00

Oh the horror! I know. I've started thinking about it and it's not even August! I guess I am just ready to be home in our house. I love the spirit in the air at Christmas. I love decorating our house and getting a tree with Matt. We decorate it together.....well more like I put everything on the tree and he moves it all around b/c every ornament has a specific position. Anways, you get the idea. Some of my favorite holiday memories are with him and I am anxious to have more. I even wish I could have a Christmas party.....but thats months away.

I was forced out again yesterday due to fire alarm testing and grounding elevators. It poured rain most of the morning until early afternoon. I was able to go into the Ion on Orchard Road, finally is open. Crazy, huge and awesome. They even put in Singapores first Dunkin Donuts.

Thats all for now...more to come later. The weekend is almost here. Time is flying by so fast!

CONFESSIONS OF AN APRON QUEEN...

2009-07-20T16:03:00.004+08:00

Yes, this is me. You just didnt realize it at first. HA!

Okay so here goes....

I have just finished binge cleaning the apartment. Seriously. On my knees scrubbing floors and showers and all kinds of icky things in the bathroom. What is that? DO NOT ANSWER.

I raised my voice loudly at dinner last night. We went to a local place called Lau Pa Sat. The near homeless people walk around and shuffle packets of purse-travel size kleenex tissues in your face. It annoys me. I think I may have embarrassed Matt. But it really gets under my skin. And they wont leave after just 1 or 2 NO's you have to shoooo them away with your hands and get mad until they finally leave you alone. And of course they dont go up to the Asians, just us white folk!

I could be high from all the cleaning products. I know I should be more green and all that but I love Love LOVE some BLEACH! I cannot get enough use out of it :) Guess that is the lab rat in me or something. My Mom would just be so proud.

When is Matt getting home today??? Anxious for my husband to come back. We are having the best time being married. I think it is shame more people dont try it or admit to it or even recommend it, but we have been reading a nightly devotional together and we love it. I dont think you could have a bad marriage if you read that book together.

Hope the sun continues the rest of the week (with my luck prob not) I am anxious to get to the pool. I havent tanned by the pool in what feels like FOREVER.

And did I mention I absolutely love and adore my husband. He is the greatest thing. Words just cant begin to describe.

Oh, and I cant wait to get back in Sept, just over a month to go. I am so anxious to be back in our house (even if it is for a month) I am ready to continue the decoration process.

Oh.....I'm exhausted. And I just heard the dryer click off. Off I go, no time left for this housewife. Hope all is well with everyone and hope each of you that read this know you are missed!

My love to all!!

THINGS I'M LOVING TODAY

2009-07-16T11:23:00.003+08:00

First and foremost and always, my wonderful husband!
Second, my chocolate pudding I just ate for lunch (fat-free snack pack!!) and the yummy chicken salad sand. I ate along with it.
Third, our laptop...how else can you email and make phone calls from thousands of miles away! Love that I am able to stay connected!!
Fourth, my green blanket...keeps me warm every day. (You always need a blanket no matter what climate you live in or what the weather is like, in my opinion).
Fifth, ALL of my 3 new Marian Keyes books Matt surprised me with yesterday. And I thought I was just getting one.

RAINY DAY BLOG

2009-07-15T07:19:00.003+08:00

POURING rain right now. Just finished our other blog and posted a pic of what the storm clouds look like rollin in and now its raining so hard its almost white outside. Definitely in need of a good soaker over here. It has been hazey the past couple days...fires in Indonesia cause haze when they are brought over by weather to Singapore.
I'm kind of hoping it rains all day. I was in the mood to stay home and clean and do laundry. I've been slacking. I admit, I have been on a manhunt for the perfect pair of shoes to wear for a wedding, so everything else has taken a back seat. And now I am delighted to spend a day at home doing chores. No problem there!
I am anxious to get my new Marian Keyes book my wonderful husband ordered for me. I love her fun, easy reads and have missed it! So I am definitely looking forward to that.
More to come later-off to start laundry :)
Cheers

JUST MAKES ME SICK

2009-07-10T07:50:00.002+08:00

In response to recent events I have just become so angry, mad and upset.
I just do not understand why it's okay for people to do unacceptable things and get away with them. Even with celebrities and Presidents and musicians, it's all about denial and then cover up and excusing away things they have done that are wrong. I just do not understand when this became ok and acceptable to the rest of society.
I just do not understand what lead us to accept that marriage means nothing. It is as if people act like cheating is ok as long as you are a celebrity or athlete and if you come out an apologize you are forgiven. It not ok and frankly I'm tired of hearing about ALL the infidelity in the world. Grow up. It's ridiculous. Don't get married in the first place. What is wrong with people that cheat? What is worse, is they will end of affecting people they have never even met. But they dont care because it is never about anyone else but THEMSELVES. Selfish people shame on you!!
Thats enough for now. I'm all fired up and better quit before I write something I regret.
Hope everyone has a great weekend.

UHM....

2009-07-08T07:15:00.003+08:00

Just a few rants for today, then I'll be done:
1. Another monsoon season has begun. Thus meaning: go to the grocery store and run other errands BEFORE 11am, when the rains begin. Its no fun being stuck in the train station without an ella and 5-6 grocery sacks.
2. I need to find some galoshes
3. Maybe now that there has been a funeral, much of the MJ stuff can be put to rest. Or whatever. Really sad seeing his little girl speak on tv & have it talked about by tons of talk shows.
4. Matt & I made awesome sweet n sour chicken last night. He is the best help cooking. And just about everything else too.
5. I finally finished my summer top....gaawsh I need a sewing machine and I'd be set. Pretty good for someone who didnt take measurements and had to stitch the whole thing by hand. Pat on the back for that one.
6. Is it the weekend yet??? I need it to hurry up and get here.
7. And last but not least: WASH YOUR HANDS AND SAY YOUR PRAYERS B/C GERMS AND JESUS ARE EVERYWHERE.

FEELIN' IT...SHORT

2009-07-06T08:30:00.003+08:00

1. Matt's team LOVED my 4th of July cake on Friday
2. We had an awesome time Sat for the celebrations event....seriously, when do we NOT have a good time together?
3. Sun it rained all day and we just relaxed, took it easy and had our usual Sunday night mexican for dinner.
4. I am going to try my hand at sewing. I'll keep you posted. Hopefully I do ok.
5. Ready for my new book to come in next week (another Marian Keyes).
6. Off to finish laundry and clean the kitchen. I miss my dishwasher.

WHAT'S GOING ON

2009-06-30T09:51:00.003+08:00

Matt and I had a wonderful stay-cation together last week. I am definitely sad it is over. I just had the best time tooting around Singapore with him. It was so nice to have your buddy there to do all sorts of things with you. I miss him already! Wish he didnt have to go to work. A couple funny things from stay-cation:
1. The US Navy was in town @ the end of the week and we gots lots of "off da ship?" questions from locals wanting to sell us crap or give us a trishaw ride.
2. Matt hassled the waitstaff at El Patio to give us 2 more beers at Happy Hour price
Anyway....
Tonight is our special date at an Aussie steakhouse not too fair away at Duxton Hill at a restaurant called Uluru. I'm so excited! Can't wait to get all dressed up for the hubs! It's one of my favorite things to do :)
www.uluru.com.sg
Hmm....what to wear?

I went shopping yesterday and got some new clothes....a little more professional looking than my usual jeans and tank top or jean skirt. Good thing the GSS was going on still (until the 26th of July to be exact). I got 5 pieces of clothes: 2 dress pants, 2 tops and 1 dress for S$85=USD$56. Pretty good huh? And Matt even liked all my purchases and said I did a great job. He is so sweet.
Not too much going on the rest of the week. This weekend we'll venture out to Sembawang where the US Navy hosts a huge 4th of July bash from 4-10pm, complete with fireworks and all. Should be a great time. I'm even planning on sending Matt to work with a 4th of July cake for his team and whoever else wishes to have some. His team LOVES when I bake them stuff.
Next week I start my new job with Calista. I'm kind of nervous, but excited to be stimulated!
So thats about all for now, more to come later. Hope everyone is doing well.

FACTS FOR 6-19-09

2009-06-19T07:13:00.002+08:00

1. So glad its Friday. I cannot even begin to describe my excitement. Our stay-cation begins officially at 5pm at Morton's Steakhouse Bar for some steak sandwiches (omg, they are awesome).
2. I hope Matt starts feeling better, or else, he's going to end up sitting in a Dr's office come Monday morning. Just seems to be having too many issues with sinus/allergy stuff. Maybe he needs to learn to CONTINUE taking medicine instead of taking it until he starts to feel better. AND I MEAN BUSINESS!! (just in case you couldnt tell).
3. Had a bar night last night, neither of us felt great, didnt really bring our A-Game, but were still the best couple there. And starting to realize we are some of the youngest Americans over here. Met some interesting people. It is always fun to hear how people have managed to come over here and what they are or are not doing. And it's nice to be able to relate and share with people in similar situations.
4. Excited for a lunch date with Matt. Hopefully we get to do it today. Some days we dont meet up b/c he is busy trying to get work done. And he can get through lunch quicker instead of hour and a half he spends with me. Fingers are being crossed this morning. I am hungry for some Indonesian BBQ.
5. If you happen to read this before next week, just a little FYI, Matt lost his cell phone in a cab yesterday. So he has to have HR get him a new one. Until then, you can reach him at his work number, my cell, or either work or gmail emails.

6. Hope everyone is doing good and has a great Father's Day weekend. A special Happy Father's Day to my Daddy-o! He is truly the greatest man in the world in my eyes. And a Happy Father's day to Mr Dill, my new FIL. He has always been so nice and welcoming to me. And of course Happy Father's day to ALL of them out there.

AFTER THE FACT

2009-06-16T19:36:00.002+08:00

So....I only realized this tonight after talking to Matt. Yesterday I went shopping, as I mentioned in Pineapple Rice. I saw this blonde girl at the mall and thought she was dressed so ridiculous. I was telling Matt she wore this floor length dress (you know the ones that are super popular...at least over here) and massive platform wedge shoes, had platinum blonde hair with really blunt cut bangs. I'm thinking, this girl looks hideous. Get rid of those blunts. She must be European. Lots of noticeable makeup too.
Reverse to Sunday evening and SingTel has this huge tent set up by the river with a huge banner that says "Are you ready to get AMPed?".....a promotion for music downloads for their cell phone users. Anyways, I saw on the news where Lady Gaga was the emcee(Sp?), star performer, whatever you want to call it. Cool. I like some of her songs. Saw all about it on the news and now we know what was going on Sunday evening.
Forward to tonight. Crap! That blonde with the blunt cut bangs shopping next to me was none other than Lady Gaga. Not that its that big of a deal, but man was I focused or what?! I didnt even notice a celebrity singer shopping next to me. Either that or I'm getting old and it is taking longer for me to put two and two together!

SPOTLESS

2009-06-15T10:29:00.002+08:00

I have been cleaning all morning long AND doing laundry. And I am proud to say that I'm done for the day. Just waiting to get everything done in the wash and will put it away once and for all (ok just until there is more). Maybe I am a clean freak or maybe its our apt, but I feel like I am constantly cleaning. And doing dishes (have I mentioned we dont have a dishwasher? yep, EVERYTHING is done by these pretty lil' hands).
Matt was sick over the weekend which allowed me to be lazy as well. However, its Monday, a new week and we are ready to take it all on.
The Towe family reunion went well and it sounds like everyone is doing good and lookin' great! Still wish we could have been there, but there is always next year. So Jeneece, you had better put us down, we will be there come hell or hi water!!!
Thats all for now, off to run errands and shop :) Making some man sandwiches for dinner. Matt will LUVV them!!

6 BOWLS LATER.....

2009-06-12T08:39:00.002+08:00

Matt was sick yesterday and he gives killer good pitiful looks. So I was feeling bad for him and thought he deserved some home made soup instead of something from the Campbell's selection at the store (and b/c I had plenty of time on my hands). So I used a recipe I got from my good friend Glynna.
I made some tastey Tortilla Soup. It was sooo yummy. I had 2 bowls of it myself and Matt ate the whole rest of the pot. Not kidding here when I say he ate 6 bowls of soup. (He'll probably kill me fore writing that on here). It was super tastey. And I think it just tasted really good to him and made him feel better...always funny what strikes us to be good when we are feeling unwell. He seemed to sound and feel much better when he woke up this morning. He looked and sounded just awful yesterday. I think it was some much needed special attention, TLC and lots of rest. And lots of sympathy. He definitely had me wrapped around his finger for sure!
Now this morning, before he left for work he told me he was going to do all the cooking this weekend. And so I asked what we were going to do for tonight and replies with, oh I thought you said you had something planned? Is tonight NOT the weekend?? Hahaha. At least I get Saturday and Sunday!! I'm sure there will be pizza and chips & salsa in store!

My Dad's side of the family is having their annual family reunion at the Methodist church camp in Hinton, OK. I'm really sad we wont be going caused we missed last year too. It's really laid back and lasts all weekend long...and we usually eat a ton! We get to see family that live in KC and Missouri and Lawton and Cordell and Norman and Midwest City....most of them attended our wedding. They are some good folks, let me tell you! And so funny. My Dad's cousin Steve will also be there, and I hear he is not doing any better. Kind of sad, b/c it may be the last time our family sees him (actually extremely sad). Hopefully his wife and kids are doing good. I will definitely miss being there and seeing everyone!! And all food & eating.

Hopefully the weather stays nice this weekend. There is no telling what we will get into. We have tons of things planned when Matt takes off work for his stay-cation, so we probably wont get into too much. It would definitely be nice & fun if we had some more visitors; we really enjoyed having Mom and Dad in town and had a great time showing them around.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!

BABY GOT A JOB....SORT OF

2009-06-09T07:59:00.003+08:00

Yep, you read it correctly. I got a job. Not for awhile...start in July. I'll be an assistant to the VP of the Friends of the Museums in Singapore. Sounds like doing some event planning and helping with Membership services. Not much, but at least something do to and get me out of this house!
Here is the website address to the FOM:
www.fom.sg

We are so excited & I cant wait to get started!

MATT COOKS

2009-06-08T07:49:00.002+08:00

I am so proud of my husband....he can cook!! Okay, I gave him an easy recipe, but really he did all the work & did nothing less than a superb job. He made some homemade quickie cobbler (yet another recipe we got from our shower last Nov). I had no idea it could be so good and so easy.
So...I will share it with you:
1 box of yellow cake mix (use dry, do not prepare)
4-5 Cups of fruit
1 can of diet 7-up
a sprayed 9x13 pan.
**Layer fruit 1st. Pour on cake mix & then pour 7-up on top. Bake 20 minutes covered, 40 minutes uncovered at 350 degrees.
It is literally fail-proof. You will be surprised how easy it is too. I used a combination of strawberries and blue berries and it tasted so good. It's already gone.
Good job Matt!!
And also since we are on the subject of Matt, he talked to some of his family yesterday. It had been awhile. But he talked forever & he really enjoyed catching up with his Mom, Dad and Melissa.
And he also got to talk to my parents this weekend. My man is so popular!

TAKIN IT EASY

2009-06-05T09:55:00.004+08:00

Full view of the Icon condos

Sky terrace

Sitting area

The best part....hot tub!

This afternoon I will be cooking up a storm for dinner in this evening. Hopefully it will be a nice night so we can enjoy it on the 31st floor...sky terrace.

I am planning a menu of chicken kebabs(all you have to do is string them on a stick of rosemary with some bell pepper, sprinkle with seasoning, drizzle with olive oil & voila instant flavor and cooking in the oven for just a few minutes~20)! We are also going to be having it with twice baked potatoes and some fresh fruit cobbler (Matt doesnt know about the dessert part). Hopefully the hubs can grab a bottle of vino & we are set! I cant wait to try out some new recipes! And have a wonderful night with Matt!

STARTING TO RUB OFF

2009-06-04T07:31:00.002+08:00

I really think Singapore is starting to rub off on me lah! (Lah=Singlish verbal exclamation!)
Last night we ate a local food court (very expat-ish)....every stall had an "A" grading so that was comforting. Probably b/c it was newer and cleaner. I think Singapore is starting to rub off on me because I ordered the black pepper beef set (set=combo). And I was upset because it disnt come with the fried egg on top. Go figure. I was just hoping it would come with the egg....or maybe it did and they pulled one over on me (because I'm white, and it wouldnt surprise me).
Matt definitely has his hands full, sometimes, not all the time.
There is a Chinese festival starting up in the grassy area in front of the condo....I tried asking a cabbie and all I could make out was something about dumplings....I love Asian dumplings and could make a meal out of them every day, and some siew mei (pronounced: sue my). I always make sure to head over to those bamboo steamers during brunch cause I know that is where the little treasures are hidden.
I am learning.....slowly but surely.

AIN'T LOVE GRAND

2009-06-02T07:40:00.006+08:00

Love is awesome. Sometimes I am totally in awe of what Matt and I have together, it's like nothing I could have ever imagined...yep it's THAT awesome.
So with that said I have some other LOVESY things to recognize:

1. Congratulations to Christian and her new husband on their recent wedding.
2. Congratulations to Shelby for recently getting engaged.
3. Congratulations to Margaret and John for getting engaged over this weekend.
4. Congrats to Mark and Serenity for getting engaged recently.
5. A HUGE Congratulations to Katie and Dan for getting engaged this weekend as well.

We are so excited for everyone to embark on their newlywed life and engagement period. We had the best time being engaged & tried to enjoy every minute of it; growing closer, sharing things, and having an intimate relationship with each other and God...it was really special.

We are loving being newlyweds & hope each of you all share similar experiences. We can't wait for all the weddings, especially my brother Bryan and his fiance Hallie's coming up in September. And wish we could be with Marsha & Dustin at their destination wedding on the beach this summer, we'll definitely be thinking of them though!

Love is definitely all around!!

FEELIN' GOOD

2009-05-29T08:46:00.002+08:00

Baby (thats what Matt calls me and how I like to refer to myself sometimes) is feelin' good today! It's Friday and I have a lunch AND dinner date with Matt. And this weekend is our 5 month wedding anniversary!! May even wear some hi heels and a cute outfit or dress. I'm sooo thankful for my husband and soo glad it is the weekend already!
Until next week~Cheers!

A CRAZY DAY (dont read unless you can handle some truths)

2009-05-27T07:42:00.004+08:00

So, yesterday when I got home from the grocery store I started unloading my bag and called Matt during his lunchtime. Well I guess I was in a hurry and forgot to lock the door. So in the midst of my phone call with Matt I heard our door open and when I turned around it was closing. It made me mad and confused and so I just had to go check it out. (I would be perfect in a horror movie....don't open the door!!). Anyways, I open the door and there is this middle-aged English lady with like 8 grocery sacks sitting on the floor. She is lost and looking for Jack Frasier's apartment. I don't know Jack and of course she is lost and confused and cant directly tell me what his apt number is.....sorry cant help you, shut the door (LOCK IT) and go about my business.

Forward several hours later, after dinner I'm washing dishes and Matt and I hear all this commotion from the apt across from us. Somebody (ahem, Virgina, the middle-aged English woman) is coming out of the apt across from us and she cannot figure out the electronic key system, so she keeps opening and closing the door (mind you so loud that we can hear it over out tv, talking and water running). Oh gawd....so I'm like Matt I have to go out there, she doesn't know how to work the dang door!!!!!!!!! Step outside, oh its you. Do you need help with the door? My name is Natalie. Oh yes, hi I'm Virginia...So I show her how to use the key and lock the door. Bless her heart.
Crazy for me, yes. I'm sure she was embarrassed b/c in 1 day she had me coming out of my apt more than once to bail her out. What even worse, and here is where I encourage you to quit reading if you are sensitive....I'm pretty sure when she walked into our apt that afternoon, I was picking an enormous wedgie! HAA!
How 'bout them apples lady?!
Just had to share that with everyone b/c I thought it was too hilarious not too. And I made her shake my hand! I'm awful, right?

EXHAUSTED

2009-05-25T14:54:00.002+08:00

So, we had a nice relaxing weekend (no Monday off for us...booo). And it sure is a good thing we took it easy. I have been working my fingers to the bone today. Catching up with emails, helping with end-of-the-year 2nd grader's school project, grocery shopping, myspacing, blogging, washing dishes, doing laundry, and....I even set up a facebook account for Matt, so he could keep up with his friends easier. Awwwww what a sweet wife. Of course I dont know all of his friends, so I tried to use our wedding list and found out that some people have more than 1 profile, or maybe they have brothers or whatever....so I'm done. It is his duty to keep up with it from now on. I even loaded a few pictures of us and of Singapore, so I think I can say I have officially kicked it off for him. Facebook here he comes! (Is).
We received a cookbook over the weekend from some very dear people to my family. A wedding present like no other, all the way from Tennessee, McMinnville to be exact. Do I even run the spellchecker after typing that? Anyways, it is from the Kimbell art museum in DFW Texas and we were so excited to go through and look at all the recipes. And Pamela even marked the good ones she has tried in the index!! She is soooo organized. I was very excited because all my cookbooks are back home in Tulsa, and I couldn't ever find a new one to buy, so it absolutely came at the perfect time.
So with that said, I'm turning it off for now.....wishing I was getting ready for another evening at Morton's with my handsome husband!! Who is hopefully getting home soon to rescue me from a case of the sleepies.
More later-Ciao!

LOVE POTION

2009-05-19T07:35:00.003+08:00

I definitely think Matt & I have intoxicated ourselves with some love potion. We are loving being married & feel like we are in such newlyweded bliss. It is truly amazing. It is hard to imagine that you can love somebody more every day. You already love them so much today, but then tomorrow comes & you do find yourself loving this person more than the day before. Life is wonderful.

We are so thankful for each other. And we feel like we definitely have something that is unique and rare. Every night before we go to bed we talk & we always think of how lucky we are. We both feel so blessed to be together & to be able to live the life that we do.

So with that said, we are definitely lovin' the married life!

MORE MONDAY MUMBLINGS

2009-05-18T07:29:00.002+08:00

If you didnt read our other blog, my Mom ran a 5k race Saturday & took 1st place for her age group. Congrats to my Momma!!!
Uhm...death to Morton's. We were so excited to go there Friday for some steak sandwiches & happy hour drinks, but they were completely full when we arrived. Apparently you need to get there at the crack of dawn if you'd like to participate in happy hour at the bar.
On another note, the Mandarin Oriental is very nice on the inside (but not as the Fullerton).
Matt had about a 3 hour work-related meeting with the GM,Greg on Saturday. So I did a bit of shopping on Orchard while I waited for him to be done. I think it was really good for him to meet with someone who thinks along the same lines as he does. And it was good for him to hear stories & shoot the bull & do some "guy" stuff.
We took it easy the rest of the weekend. Went to the library & did some shopping (for Matt). But really did not get into too much, which I think was good. We both felt pretty rested when we woke up this morning.
Hopefully this week goes by fast, at least that's what I'm praying for. It's definitely going to be a rough for Matt, so with that said, more to come later, we may be laying low this week :)

MMM-HMM IT'S FRIDAY

2009-05-15T07:33:00.002+08:00

FRIDAY MEANS:
1. Lunch with my handsome husband
2. An early workout
3. Baby gets to wear her new jean skirt
4. Happy hour @ Morton's for a couple of drinks & free steak sandwiches
5. Shopping this weekend (for Matt, he needs some new slacks, pray we find some)
6. A talk about things to come at Madron
7. Sleeping in & exploring sights in Singapore we've never heard of or even seen
8. Doing anything & everything we want or don't want to do when we want cause its our weekend!!

JUST WANTED TO PUT IT OUT THERE

2009-05-13T07:53:00.002+08:00

Bombshell: I cut bangs.
I took the picture just after waking up so me & my bangs are still sleepy.
I was just a little bored with my hair & knew Matt likes it long. So what's a girl to do?
Still deciding how well I like them. But I guess I'll keep them for a bit. Those who know me, know I like to do different things with my hair...I have been known to change it often (grow long, cut short, grow long, keep long, cut really short).
I even changed my hairstyle the day of our wedding while I was sitting in the chair @ the salon...I can be spontaneous like that.
Anyway, just wanted to share so people wouldn't be surprised the next time they see me.
More to say later~

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-11T07:24:00.003+08:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Happy Mother's Day to all Moms, but especially my own, she is the greatest Mom I could ever have!

A few other Moms of note:

1. My aunt & Godmother, Peggy

2. My new MIL

3. Of course all my aunts, they are very special & dear to me

4. And to all my Mom's closest friends who have watched me grow up

Here is to all Moms everywhere!

Love

Natalie

I COULDN'T BE HAPPIER...

2009-05-08T06:50:00.002+08:00

I COULDN'T BE HAPPIER THAT:
1. It's Friday
2. I have the most amazing husband in the world
3. I have an awesome marriage
4. We may be coming home soon ie: June-ish
5. We have the cutest house on the block & the coolest condo in Singapore
6. My husband isn't afraid to pray with me
7. I have the best family & friends in the world
8. I get a dog next year when we are back in Tulsa (plenty of time to pick the right one out)
9. I live the life I do....it's mine & I love it (it's amazing!!)
10. We have pools, jacuzzis, hot tubs and saunas to use whenever we like
11. There is Mexican food in Singapore
12. I found some good coffee & a press to use
13. I am NOT in Hong Kong
14. I get to see the most incredible views of a sunrise & sunset from our living room overlooking the South China Sea
15. For Christmas, Mom & Dad got use Bose noise cancelling headphones (if you have some, try wearing them around the home or office when you have a headache...instant relief!)

CINCO DE MAYO WITH MY HUSBAND

2009-05-06T08:56:00.002+08:00

Apparently, what most people do not know is that Martha Stewart must have written some of her recipes while she was in jail. And is the case of the enchilada recipe I used yesterday for our Cinco de Mayo fiesta. Uh huh, they were that bad. Okay, not THAT bad, but they were just different.
All in all, it was a pretty good fiesta with enchiladas, salsa, beans, sour cream, chips, etc...And even a LIME flavoured Bacardi Breezer (still having trouble finding tequila for Margaritas). We LOVE some Mexican food in this house & will eat it any opportunity we get! Even a couple times a week. Happy Cinco de Mayo everyone!

TREASURE

2009-05-04T09:20:00.005+08:00

This is our new treasure & the picture doesn't really do any justice. It's our new trunk/chest. We bought it while strolling around Chinatown & we immediately fell in love with it! We can't wait to put it to good use!

More to come later

SPECIAL SPECIAL

2009-04-30T11:20:00.004+08:00

So, if you have seen the Pineapple Rice blog you will have learned it is "the girls" First Communion this coming Sunday. I have the great privilege of being Libby's Godmother. However, I am disappointed I will be unable to attend, but am sure I will make it up with gifts being sent. Cause who doesn't like presents, right?

Anyways, I can remember my first communion & actually Peggy, Libby's mom is my Godmother. We like to keep it in the family!

And I'm just sure, big brother Luke has given the girls the need-to-know info since he's already been there & done that! Isn't that what big bro's are for?!

I miss those kids. They really are all so cute, sweet & good children. Life would not be the same without them! They have all brought so many wonderful moments into our lives.

With that said, I hope they have a great weekend, a blessed time with their new sacrament and a great Sunday! Wish we could be there.

Our love to our families!

SERIOUS...NO REALLY ITS SERIOUS

2009-04-28T07:39:00.002+08:00

All kidding aside. It's time for a serious post.
Keep my brother in your thoughts & prayers. UBS is going through some layoffs & he is definitely afraid his group may be the next target;they have yet to see anyone go & think their number could be up.
Also, anyone who has any free time coming up that wants to travel to Singapore let us know. We are willing to do whatever we can to help anyone that is wanting to visit( and that includes handing over some miles we have acquired). Our contract ends at the end of this year & we are thinking we will probably be back home. Unless Nordam comes up with some kind of amazing deal we cant refuse. We'd love to have ANYONE!
Also, I have some friends/family who are extremely ill. Please keep them in your prayers.
Thats all for now-

AWESOME WEEKEND WITH MY HUSBAND

2009-04-27T08:02:00.002+08:00

I had an awesome weekend with my husband! I could never want a different one & I sure couldnt ask for a better one. He is truly the greatest. He is so generous, caring & loving. He loves learning & going on adventures with me.
We had a great time exploring ECP & trying to get a view of the Navy ships that were in. He's so funny & so smart. We had fun eating dinner with all 4 of our sailors. He's so nice & inclusive of everyone in conversations. He is one amazing guy. I'm so thankful I've got him!
We had such a great weekend together & are looking forward to the upcoming 3 day weekend we have. Until then, its the domestics life for me(and there is LOTS to do!).
More to come later!

ALMOST THE WEEKEND...TGIF!!

2009-04-24T07:43:00.002+08:00

Its Friday, once again....thank goodness! I live for Fridays! Today & this weekend should be a bit different though:
1. No lunch with Matt today...booo. Ok, we had it yesterday. He has a business buddy in town from Whales & they get to have a meeting over lunch.
2. Taking some sailors out for dinner Sat & Sun night. Should be interesting. Hope we have fun.
3. MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND BROUGHT ME FLOWERS & A CURRY PUFF LAST NIGHT! HOW ROMANTIC!!
I just cant wait to get the weekend started with my husband, he is definitely the greatest!

Crazies

2009-04-21T14:19:00.002+08:00

I am the luckiest wife in the world. Who else gets to make a daily trip to the grocery store? Sometimes I dont even feel like going, but make myself for Matt's sake. I'm fine with eating cereal or oatmeal for dinner. My husband, on the other hand, deserves much more than just breakfast for dinner after working hard all day.
You can learn so much about life, people, general things, etc...just by making a trip to the grocery store. In Singapore, it always seems like some kind of "event". Today was another tale of the crazies. The hours of lunchtime in Singapore are NOT the greatest time to do anything. In this small country you might as well forget doing anything in hurry between the hours of 11am-3pm(yes that long, serious). So the local grocery store( not the one I like to frequent but did cause it was convenient) had terrible lines today. I think there were 6 lines & they were backed up all the way to the isle. Well, I get in the very last line with my 3 items. And I notice the line next to me is getting longer as well. Out of nowhere here comes a crazy(crazy=usually female 50+ yrs old). She is rummaging around the junk near the cashier counter & I move closer to the guy in front of me as the line is moving. Well, the girl in the line next to me wasnt as smart & the ol' crazy tried to cut her. So, the young girl slid her basket, which was on the floor, forward so the older woman would realize she needed to move to the back of the line. It wasnt as if she could hardly walk or anything like that. So she picks up a bag of Nescrape(sorry Nescafe) and starts asking the girl in front of the other girl questions as she is still trying to cut in front of her. WTH? She never budged, but neither did the younger girl. I was almost laughing to see them battle out the supermarket shuffle to the cashier. Just another example of another crazy. They wear me out.

I LOVE IT WHEN...

2009-04-20T10:57:00.002+08:00

I love it when...
1. He snuggles and cuddles right up to me
2. He has just shaved & I can feel his smooth-as-a-baby's-bottom face
3. He grows out some scruff
4. He talks on and on about things I dont understand ie: cars,planes, engineering, beers, etc...
5. He gives me sweet little kisses & big hugs
6. He reads to me before we go to bed
7. He prays...his prayers are always the best
8. He acts goofy
9. He is mischievous
10. He smiles
11. He lets me explain all the problems & slight inconveniences of being female
12. He lets me say whatever & doesnt judge me or criticize me
13. He stands up for me
14. He tells me he loves me(and the why's too)
15. He puts his feet on mine
There are soo many more things I love that he says & does every day I cant possibly list them all here. I love being married to Matt, its the greatest thing in the world!

SELFISH

2009-04-16T10:32:00.002+08:00

SELFISHNESS: The act of placing one's own needs or desires above the needs or desires of others.
Why the nasty, negative toned blog about the word selfishness? Because I feel like I have seen too much of it lately; in friends, in family and in complete strangers. I dont need to name any names here or really point out specific instances. But I just think, that if you have 2 or 3 minutes of time to spare, which I know we all do. You can at least acknowledge someone in your life. Take 2 0r 3 minutes to write a short email or quick phone call ie: just wanted you to know I was thinking about you & hope you are doing well, or happy birthday, or hi, i miss you, or hey I heard this news Congratulations, etc, etc.....Or let someone in front of you in line at the grocery, or when getting on a train, or at lunch, or driving in traffic.
We, as human beings need to act more like it. Grow up, be mature and do what you need to do. You dont walk in your friends or families or strangers shoes, so what is the hurt in being nice?
I'm mad & I'm done with it all.
You know who you are & for those of you who are innocent in reading this, you know who I'm talking about...we can all think of examples of these people.
I'm just really tired of it all. I have come to the realization(and I am in no way saying I'm perfect) that it really does no good to be hateful, rude, or negative, or be selfish. Think of other people for once, instead of yourself & you may find a happier person inside.
Maybe next time I post, I wont be so disappointed in people.
Until then~

ALL ABOUT ME....

2009-04-14T09:20:00.002+08:00

50 THINGS YOU'VE NEVER BEEN ASKED....SURVEY

1. What color is your toothbrush?
Yellow
2. Name 1 person who made you smile today
Matt
3. What were you doing at 8:00am this morning?
Checking my emails
4. What were you doing 45 minutes ago?
Watchin Nancy Grace
5. What is your favorite candy bar?
Snickers
6. Have you ever been to a strip club?
No, but prostitution is legal in Singapore
7. What is the last thing you said out loud?
I love you & bye
8. What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Coffee
9. What was the last thing you had to drink?
H2O=water
10. Do you like your wallet?
It serves its purpose
11. What was the last thing you ate?
Multi-grain oatmeal
12. Have you bought any new clothing items this week?
I bought a purple shirt in KL
13. The last sporting event you watched?
Soccer
14. What is your favorite flavor of popcorn?
Kettle Corn
15. Who is the last person to send you a text message?
Other than Matt, Starhub about my phone balance
16. Ever go camping?
A few times
17. Do you take vitamins daily?
yep, a women's multi
18. Do you go to church every Sunday?
Right now we have been mostly going to sleep-in-till-you-have-kids church, but we did make it to Easter Mass Sunday.
19. Do you have a tan?
Yes, but its fading.
20. Do you prefer Chinese food over pizza?
No, really depends on what I'm hungry for.
21. Do you drink your soda with a straw?
Yes, when I'm not at home
22. what did your last text message say?
Idk
23. What are you doing tomorrow?
Grocery shopping & not sure what else
24. Look to your left, what do you see?
Bath & Body works lotion, nail polish & my deodorant
25. What color is your watch?
Silver with diamonds
26. What do you think of when you hear the word Australia
Good day Mate!
27. Do you go into a fast food place or just hit up the drive through?
Go inside
28. What is your favorite number?
28
29. Who was the last person you talked to on the phone?
Matt
30. Plans for today?
Grocery store, Suntec City, cleaning, maybe hitting up the pool
31. How many states have you lived in?
Just 1
32. Biggest annoyance right now?
No job
33. Last song listened to?
Brandy, Right Here
34. Can you say the alphabet backwards?
No
35. Do you have maid service clean your house?
No
36. Favorite pair of shoes?
My red heels & black wedges
37. Are you jealous of anyone?
Absolutely NOT!
38. Is anyone jealous of you?
Yeah
39. Do you love anyone?
Of course!
40. Do you hate anyone?
I wouldnt say HATE but definitely strongly dislike a few people
41. Do any of your friends have children?
Yes
42. what do you usually do during the day?
Various housewife duties
43. Do you use the word hello daily?
I usually say HI
44. What color is your car?
NON-EXISTENT
45. what color is your house?
Red brick with teal trim
46. Have you ever been to Six Flags?
Yes
47. How did you get your worst scar?
Surgery on my wrist
48. Have you ever had surgery?
Yes
49. What color are your nails?
No polish on my fingers but my toes are deep red
50. If you look out a window in your house, what can you see?
The port in Singapore

TRIPPIN' & TRAVELIN'

2009-04-13T09:34:00.002+08:00

And yes, I'm serious about the tripping part. I cant even remember how many times I literally tripped along a sidewalk during our vacation. It had to be 5 or 6 times...or at least thats what it feels like.

We had a great time on our trip to Kuala Lumpur. Took lots of pics you can look on our Pineapple Rice blog & see them all. I even managed to convince Matt to get a massage Friday, which he ended up LOVING...and I did too. It was so nice to get away just for a couple of days, forget about work, home stresses, etc....and just enjoy being together & traveling. Love me some Sangria I had while we were stopped at a little spanish tapas restaurant. I'm totally hooked on it now. Forget the champagne, give me some SANGRIA!

Oh the fun....I needed a drink or two after having to use what they call toilets, which is really a porcelain oval in the floor of the bathroom stall, complete with freaky sprayer hose and all. Matt always feels bad for me, so I suggest a drink :) and it usually works. No girl wants to do that, EVER. Believe me, I sound whiny,but if you could only experience it, you would understand the feeling of violation I had, especially if you have to go #2. Yuck. Sorry, TMI but its so true!! Good things I packed hand sanitizer in my carry on plastic ziplock!

Back to laundry, cleaning the apt....maybe I'll hit the pool & recover.

Ahh....love being back in Singapore!! Its so nice here!

More to come later!

ALL GONE!

2009-04-09T07:39:00.004+08:00

Yes, this is the nothing-less-than-fabulous lemon cake I made Matt for his birthday. Mmmmm. It was so yummy, it's already gone. I know it looks a little elementary, but there wasnt much to buy at the store to decorate a cake with, but this did just fine. And Mr Matt LOVED it so much! He always loves when I bake him a lemon cake. So with that said, Happy Birthday Matt!

A TRUE HONOR

2009-04-08T07:57:00.003+08:00

I have finally been given the true honor of being a Maid of Honor! My brother's fiance Hallie has asked me to be her Matron of Honor at their wedding in September. I've been a bridesmaid a couple of times for sorority sisters, but this title is just a little different.

The wedding is in Vermont over Labor day weekend. I've heard its really beautiful up there that time of the year. I'm very excited! My big brother is getting married!

Hallie's family is wonderful, so nice and generous. They all, Mr & Mrs Fader AND John all flew in from NYC to attend our wedding. It was definitely a treat having them all there, we are so happy to get to see them again.

And of course, we are excited for anyone else to be getting married. It was such an awesome, amazing day for us. We hope they love their wedding/marriage as much as we love ours!

Until next time!

CH-CHA-CHANGES....

2009-04-07T09:22:00.003+08:00

It was about time for a new look. An update to the old. Spring is here & it is about time we started lookin' like it! So I updated the ol' blogs with a new look. No, you are not at the wrong place! And yes, everything is fine. Just wanted to do something new & fun.
Will update more later. Lots to get done today!

WONDERFUL WEEKEND

2009-04-06T12:06:00.003+08:00

I had an absolutely wonderful weekend with Matt. I hate when Mondays come & he has to go to work, But at least this week is going to be short & we have our trip to Kuala Lumpur coming up!
I am all ready for Easter & now am just waiting to fix a birthday cake when we get home & have a birthday celebration. I cant wait! Somehow I think I am more excited about it than Matt; almost like it's my birthday. Maybe I am excited cause we'll finally be the same age & he will no longer be able to rub-it in my face that he is younger(at least until August).
I've got all sorts of birthday frosting & sprinkles around and Easter jellybeans to taunt me for awhile, which is dangerous!!
And now I'm off to pack & find some travel size goodies!

SAD BUT TRUE

2009-04-03T14:23:00.004+08:00

I have a sorority sister who needs some prayers, so if you believe in the power of it, she could use your help. I just found out that on this past Saturday her Mom lost a 10 year battle with cancer. I cant even imagine what the has to be like, life must seem very unfair to her right now. A Mom is the greatest thing to a girl...everything must be crashing in around her. And I know she could definitely use our prayers. Even though she has already passed, I know her family, daughter and friends need much comforting. My friend just got married at Christmas time, just before Matt & I did. I know her husband has been a great source of comfort for her and I am so relieved to hear that she is doing ok & best as possible considering the circumstances.
Another of my friends has a sister with stage 4 ovarian cancer. I have not heard how she is doing lately. Maybe no news is good news. But her prognosis was terminal this time. I know her cancer has spread & I'm assuming she is doing everything in her power to fight it, she has 2 daughters who are around middle-school/high school age. Very unfortunate for this family, who just lost a father/grandfather 2 years ago.
I have a family member who has aggressive prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. Dont hear much from him. And I cant say I blame him. He has 2 young sons(I think they are 2 & 4 or somewhere close to that) and I'm sure he is concentrating on spending as much time with the boys & his wife.
I know there are so many more people out there in situations like this. It just makes me stop everyday & think & pray that I'm so grateful to have what I have. I have an awesome family, an amazing husband. My life is great!(Even though a random a^%$*&#@ posted on my blog that I need to get a life....classy). I love it & wouldnt change it for the world. I wouldnt trade with anyone in the world. I feel so fortunate to have what I do. And so, my life may not be horrible, it may not be perfect. But its just that its mine. I dont care what other people think cause they dont matter & they have never walked a mile in my shoes.
With that said. I just want anyone who reads this to think and pray for others. Maybe they dont have family at war in foreign countries,or a terminal illness/disease they are fighting, but they may be fighting battles in their own homes.
My love to you all, you are kept in our thoughts & prayers daily.

3 MONTH ANNIVERSARY...

2009-04-01T07:50:00.005+08:00

Yep thats right! We celebrated our 3 month wedding anniversary last night! We had such a great time. Got some yummy home-made Italian food, gosh it was so delicious. I'd go back everyday if I could get away with it. Matt was so sweet & romantic, he even brought home a bottle of wine. Love that boy, he knows just the right thing to do(maybe he had a little coaching after the bag incident last week, but I'm not allowed to say anymore, so lets just leave it at that). I even bought a cute, inexpensive new dress($25 US) and got all done-up for the special occasion.
I absolutely love our dates together, we never have had a bad date. They are always such a great time. Its nice to not have to cook dinner & treat ourselves every once in awhile. And I'm sure Matt doesnt mind a break in my cooking either!

I absolutely LOVE being married & LOVE living my life with Matt. Its even more amazing than I ever could have imagined. So for all those skeptics, here's to you. Nobody said we were perfect & I am not about to. But...after all the long distance(broke my heart the day he left), all the back & forth, trying to decide what was best & what to do, after quitting my job I had worked so hard for & was becoming so amazingly good at, after undergoing ALOT of hurtfulness, after having people be sceptical of our situation & love for each other, after rude comments, after all that we are still who we are & love each other more & more every day. It definitely has been no easy road for either of us. But the journey has made us better & made us who we are today & I know I can say we are both so thankful for that. We are so in love & love each other in a truly intimate, spiritual sense. It has all been worth it & we'd do it all over again.
So here is a little quote I received in an email this morning I thought I would share & pass along because I really liked it:
Love is not blind. It sees more not less. But because it sees more, it is willing to see less.
So true!! With that said, I love my husband so very much. He is the greatest. I would do anything for us & anything for him. Being married & living our life together is one of the greatest gift's from God & I am so thankful for everything He has given us.
My love to all~~

HERE I GO AGAIN....

2009-03-31T07:09:00.003+08:00

1. Back to the US Embassy today to pick up my newer, newest corrected passport. Hopefully everything is correct. And now, the lady at Matt's work gets to deal with fixing my dependant pass :) hehe
2. Its our 3 month wedding anniversary(hey!). Thats right! So excited, my wonderful husband is taking me out on a date tonight! Awesome. I cant wait!
3. Love my new mouthwash
4. Thanks to Andee for sending the Shopittome
5. T minus 9 days & counting until our vacation weekend get-away to kuala lumpur
6. Made a Tex-mex salad last night for dinner....very very good. And home-made dressing to go! It was soo good!
7. Ventured out over the weekend & even tried a new beer...eat your heart out Matt Dill! This girl likes Hoegaarden!
8. Found 101 uses for white distilled vinegar. Its my new best friend & I use it once a day....seriously. Feel free to tell me your favorite use for it.
9. So happy to have someone take care of our taxes for us
10. Ready to go back to bed!(but I cant, got an important business issue to take care of)
11. Will my allergy/sinus/cold stuff ever clear up?!
12. Have decided I want to do something with my hair & need a new wardrobe. HA!
I am having a greater need for skirts & dresses as it is soo hot over here!!! Denim no more!
13. Name something in Singapore that IS NOT the world's biggest _____.

CRAVINGS FOR...

2009-03-30T08:36:00.003+08:00

I love the food here in Singapore. Its awesome. I dont think I have ever eaten anything totally awful. But at the same time, there are some things I have been craving for back home like...
1. Panera Hazelnut Coffee
2. Senor Tequilas and any other tex-mex hole-in-the-wall restaurant
3. Buffalo Wild Wings(like ALL of them)
4. Taco Bueno
5. Arby's
6. Kilkenny's Reuben Rolls(yummm)
7. Steak
8. Panera breakfast sandwich, not recommended if you are on a diet
9. Snow cones(I havent had one in forever, but since its gotten so hot here, I've been thinking that a cherry one sounds kind of nice)
10. Umbertos
11. My Momma's cooking
12. Bill & Ruth's(the pastrami is the best, Matt has even started ordering it!!)
I think I'm hungry!!
Enough talking about it for now!!

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEKEND...

2009-03-27T09:20:00.002+08:00

Its Friday, finally! It seems like this week has gone by so slow. Maybe its just because I havent been feeling well. Thats what I'm chalkin it up to at least.
So I'm 1 more day closer to getting my new, newer passport.
I feel the best I have all week.
I'm ready for my lunch date with Matt & for it to be 5pm & have him home for the weekend.
I am no closer at finding a job over here...hmmm what to do. Not complaining at all here, just giving the facts.
Matt & I LOVE the show called Snoop Dogg's Fatherhood. Hilarious. We are probably getting re-runs but I could watch them over and over. And its amazing what a normal, nice guy he seems to be. Interesting.
I am now a Hill's or is it Hills'? re-run addict. i have been completely caught up with those annoying, catty little rich snots. What drama. I mean, really whose life is really like that?
Found an awesome local show to watch, Dont Forget the Lyrics, just shows how crazy people over here are. But its soo fun to watch & laugh at.
And last but not least, LOVE my husband. He is the greatest. It really is amazing how your love for someone grows every single day. What a gent!
More to come later-basketball has me distracted.

PLANNING

2009-03-25T09:54:00.003+08:00

I am busy(ok busy as I can be) travel planning. Looks like we could be headed home over the summer in June or July. And then we will also be doing our trip to NY City & Vermont for Bryan & Hallie's wedding(my brother & his fiance) in September.
Nothing definite right now. As it all has to go through you-know-who and how long that will take to get approved is always a mystery.
But hopefully everything will work out & we'll be able to do some travelin'.
We will definitely keep you updated.
More to come later!

LOTTA LOVE IN HERE!!

2009-03-23T11:51:00.002+08:00

I absolutely LOVE my husband! He is the greatest. We had such a wonderful weekend doing all the things we love to do. It makes Monday mornings at the door so hard...I hate saying goodbye. I mean, I know somebody in this household has to go to work, but...I just wish he could work from home at least.

Got lots to do in the next couple of weeks to prepare for his birthday(28). I dont even know where to start! But its sure to be great! I cant wait to celebrate.

We are loving being married. And for those of you who dont think its cheesy, you should get the book "Night Light" by the Dobson's. Its a great book/devotional to read together & we are both truly enjoying it. It has been one of the best gifts we've received!

Love to all-hope you are all well!

^%$($$&^%#$#

2009-03-20T08:04:00.004+08:00

So....I got the best of all news yesterday from Matt. My name on my new passport is spelled wrong. Lovely. Just freakin' absolutely wonderful. So its back to the Embassy for me( next week though). It was definitely NOT GOOD NEWS.
I had a bit of a good fit about it. And now I'm over it...sort of, maybe. Ok not really. Cant I just be Natalie Elizbeth??
At least its Friday & the weekend is here. I can deal with my rage on Monday :)
But it definitely sucks. I've had a bit of a hard time with all my name change/ banking stuff. etc, etc... And looking back we havent really had the easiest time being newlyweds. Here is a re-cap:
1. The 2nd night of being married, my new husband has to dumpster dive for my belongings & our honeymoon information at The Colcord Hotel(NEVER STAY THERE) because a maid apparently thought it was a gift we left for her. Yes, my fur wrap, my wedding bouquet, and our honeymoon travel plans. I kid you not. Then acted as if we should fall at their feet with gratefulness since they found them. Hmmm...can anyone say theft? Not to mention, they told Matt he could go look through the trash, which he did with the head janitor....because it had all our travel information...it was keepsakes from my wedding!! Come on!! I will never recommend anyone stay there. And I will continue to trash them in a very classy way, as I have now.
2. Arrive at our honeymoon destination, some things are wrong with our room, we have problems with a cruise we take, and on our way home in Atlanta(crap-lanta as I like to call it...sorry to offend anyone) it takes 3 hours to get our luggage at the airport. Oh and in Antigua I had a friend show up several days early (TMI...maybe? But it just helps emphasize how un-fun I felt) Although we had a wonderful honeymoon together, and it was truly amazing being Mrs CMD!!
3. two trips to the tag agency in 6 months for a drivers license
4. two trips to the social security office to get my card changed
5. Now it will be 4 trips to the Embassy for a passport....yikes.
6. A VERY large mistake at the bank, causing tears & frustration....you dont even want to know. Its all resolved though, thankfully.

Sounds like I am complaining a bit, which I'm not. We've had bad news and sad news and frustrations of daily life. However, we have managed to get through everything: together and with dignity & class. We are the best partners & I would never change a thing. Its our crazy life & that why I love it; cause it OURS. And I couldnt ask for a more amazing man the past couple months than Matt. He has truly been a perfect husband. And I'm so excited to get to spend many , many more months & our lives together. I have loved every moment so far...
Cheers!

I'M NO FAMOUS COOK OR ANYTHING BUT...

2009-03-17T13:20:00.003+08:00

Here is my latest recipe: MOROCCAN SALAD
1/2 C dried brown lentils
1 C couscous
2 Tomatoes diced
1/4 C red onion
1 oz of feta cheese(or more if you like...I used reduced fat feta cheese)
1 Tbs olive oil
1 Tbs lemon or lime juice(I used lime)
2 Garlic cloves, chopped
I cooked the lentils & couscous first(but in separate pots) then combines in a bowl
I mixed all the rest of the ingredients together in another bowl.
Combine 2 bowls, let sit in refrigerator until cold & serve when ready.
I also put some mixed salad greens in the bottom of our bowls to make it more like a salad. It was really good & refreshing on such a hot, humid day! Plus, its fairly healthy and the lentils & couscous are great for fiber!

BECAUSE I LOVE MY HUSBAND...

2009-03-16T06:55:00.003+08:00

My husband has been working sooo hard lately and because I love him so much....
1. I made hamburgers with the fixins on Friday...mmmm tasty, tasty
2. I walked all the way to East Coast Park with him, got sunburned, and even used the nasty toilet/facilities when I wanted to cry.
3. Had a pint or 2 at Scruffy Murphy's
4. Rubbed our nasty sweaty socks in his nose....only after he threw them at me first
5. Took him to the Manchester United Bar at Boat Quay for the Liverpool/ManU game(only to be told they were full of reservations,so we sat outdoors at the restaurant next to it called Dallas Star, only to watch ManU Bar's big screen tv from there....SO take that!)
6. Drank 1 for 1 pints & ate chicken wings(cause thats what guys like, right?)
7. Stumbled home and ate cookies n cream ice cream...YUM!
8. Had a lazy Sunday and then ate at Norther Chang Mai Palace Thai restaurant for some yummy green curry.
9. And bought groceries afterwards so I could pack him a lunch this week.
10. And even took a nap together :)
Ahhh...what a wonderful weekend!

GURKHAS....A LITTLE EDUCATION HERE

2009-03-13T07:10:00.004+08:00

So, these are the guys I encounter when I got to the Embassy. Or when I'm running errands & they are practicing some drill in the train station. They usuallu scare the everloving crap out of me. They wont even make eye contact with you. Its a bit tramatizing I must say. But at least they're keepin' us safe!

Here is some info I pulled about about them:

Gurkhas guard Singapore from terror
ReutersApril 17, 2002SINGAPORE

THESE days, Nepalis not Singaporeans guard some of the city's most sensitive sites.
Gurkha soldiers -- widely regarded as the most fearsome fighters in the world -- are on the front line in the city-state as Singapore clamps down on Islamic militancy in the wake of the September 11 attacks on the United States.
The soldiers, raised in the foothills of the Himalayas and recruited by the Singapore police, have seldom been in the public eye here although their contingent has been based on the wealthy island for more than 50 years.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Gurkhas helped quell racial riots, strikes and trades union disputes in Singapore and won praise for their ability to bring calm and be impartial in any dispute.
Such turbulent times are long gone in Singapore, but with tension high in the wake of the September attacks and the discovery of a plot to attack targets in Singapore, the Gurkhas are replacing local policemen at some of Singapore's most sensitive buildings.
These include the US embassy and the American Club -- both the target of a foiled bombing plot by a regional Islamic group -- as well as the huge Jurong island petrochemical complex and Changi international airport.
"I think it's right to say that the Gurkhas, as part of the Singapore Police Force, have become more important here after September 11," said Commander Bruce M. Niven, head of the Gurkha Contingent in Singapore.
The Gurkhas' main strength is their impartiality in the multiracial city-state of four million people.
"In the local context, impartiality is one of their unique attributes," Niven said.
"Not being influenced by the local scene is part of their concept in Singapore. They just don't get emotionally involved in anything they may get caught up in."
It is the absence of political or religious roots in Singapore that has granted the soldiers a reputation of utmost objectivity -- key to success in Singapore which is inhabited by ethnic Chinese, Malay and Indian communities.
ON A KNIFE EDGE
The Gurkha Contingent was officially created in Singapore in 1949 from ex-British Army Gurkhas.
The city state has expanded the Contingent in the past few years, according to a source with knowledge of the Gurkhas, but the events of September 11 could result in further increases.
"Before, you just never saw them on the streets (of Singapore)," said the source, who did not want to be identified. "But the government is pushing them more into the public domain, which is a very interesting phenomenon."
The recent arrests of Islamic militants suspected of plotting bomb attacks have cast a shadow over the security-conscious island republic.
"We are a police force and we respond to what our republic requires of us in times of peace or in time of tension in the world," Niven said.
"We are unique here in the sense that our Gurkhas are police officers... While a soldier is perhaps out there to kill people, Gurkhas here are essentially present to maintain the peace, and protect people and property."
Yet, a Gurkha cop is still a Gurkha. According to legend, once his kukri dagger has been drawn in battle, it must "taste blood". If it has not, its master has to cut himself before returning it to its sheath.
Descended from the Rajputs tribes of North India, Gurkhas conquered the small Nepali region of Gorkha after being forced out from India in the early 16th century. Settling down in their new home, they called themselves Gurkhas.
A CITY IN A CITY
From there, Gurkhas have travelled widely, serving the British empire in many parts of Asia but particularly Singapore and Hong Kong.
The Gurkha Cantonment in Singapore is like another world, with its own shops, schools and playgrounds.
"This is a small township, and I am like a mayor," Niven said.
Stationed in Singapore on a temporary mission, the Gurkhas do not sink deep roots into the city's soil. They are not allowed to.
The principle of impartiality forbids them to marry Singaporean women.
Most end up returning home to their villages in the hills where most people grow rice and wheat.
So far, only two or three of them have broken the tradition and chosen to stay in Singapore instead of returning to Nepal, one of the world's poorest countries and torn by a six-year-old Maoist rebellion that has claimed some 3500 lives.
Niven said they are mainly recruited from the Hindu and Buddhist villages and begin their careers at the age of 18 to 22.

IT'S LIKE THAT!

2009-03-11T10:51:00.002+08:00

The hubs & I went to a networking thingy last night. I joined the American Association & they had this little event at Brewerks(yea to free flow pizza & beer!). Anyways, we met some interesting people. Matt even got invited to play rugby from an English guy(really perked him up cause if anyone knows rugby, its the English right?). I met a nice girl from the east(New York, Vermont, etc..) She lives really close & hopefully we'll be able to meet up & have coffee or lunch.
All in all it was so fun for us to get out and socialize, a hard thing to do here in Singapore. And we were such a great team, definitely the "IT" couple of the 50 people there(try to beat that-hehe). Anyways, just reaffirms for both of us how truly well we get along & worked together...definitely made to be together, thats for sure!

SO LITTLE TIME....

2009-03-10T07:06:00.002+08:00

Well, apparently a close family friend is in the hospital with endocarditis...so prayers for him are greatly appreciated.
I made tuna casserole for dinner last night & it was horrible, but we ate it anyway. My first big cooking flop....never using THAT recipe ever again.
Went to the US Embassy on Friday(see Pineapple Rice blog for details) to get my passport changed to my new name, I was told it would be March 20th when it was ready. I got an email from the Embassy yesterday saying my passport is ready to pick up at my convenience. HUH? Go figure. Of course they could not have done it Friday, everyone was too anxious for the weekend to work, and they said 20th to give themselves plenty of time. Oh well. At least its ready! Hooray. I'm totally done with the name change business!
Going to a networking workshop tonight with the hubs...should be interesting. Maybe we'll actually meet some new people.
More to come later, lots of errands to run today. Hopefully I wont get stuck out in a downpour like I did yesterday(and yes I even had an umbrella with me).

FOR THE RECORD

2009-03-06T08:05:00.001+08:00

I made meatloaf for dinner last night, ate it, and it was good.

NEW RECIPE

2009-03-05T08:25:00.005+08:00

I have had a goal to cook every night for S$10 or less. Most days I go to the store I cant handle it, but some days I do go over just a tad. But, it means we are eating smaller portions & very healthy.

So with that said, I thought I'd share another great recipe I found.

FISH TACOS:(the mango salsa is too good!)

1. Mango Salsa:

1/2 C mango-diced

1/2 C red bell pepper

1/4 C small red onion

1 small Chile pepper

cilantro

1 Tbsp lime juice

Combine all ingredients & let sit at least 30 minutes before serving or for 1-4 hours before serving.

2. Fish Fillets(I used red snapper, but Talapia would also be a good choice)

1 Tsp ground cumin

2 Tbsp olive oil

Spread cumin, olive oil over fish fillet. Cook ~4 mins on each side. Add salt & pepper if needed.

Cut fish into chunks

Use wheat wraps or tortillas and add either red cabbage or cole-slaw. I used cole slaw I found at the store, it was dry, meaning no creams or dressing in it.

Serve as soon as fish is done cooking, while still warm! You cant go wrong with this recipe, the mango salsa is awesome! If you pre-make the salsa a couple hours ahead of time, your actually cooking time is very short since all that has to cook if the fish. Everything else can be served refrigerated or at room temp. Clean up is easy as well.

And healthy too!

BTW-I dont think I'll be needing any more cooking classes :)

MEMORIES...

2009-03-02T10:17:00.002+08:00

Ah...memories. Some are wonderful, others are just, don't even want to go there.

Anyways, I was playing different music this weekend & was brought back to the good ol' days in Stillwater of country/red dirt music, cowboys, classes and the AX house. Ahh...good friends, good food thanks to Kathy, Marsha & Angie the housekeepers, and of course Momma Jane(the best housemom) and my wonderful AXO sisters.

What a great time & what great memories!

But thats all behind & I love the more recent memories I have now like meeting Matt, our first date, meeting each others friends & family, seeing him in Singapore last Feb, our engagement, my move, our wedding & so many many more!

Here's to the Memories!!

IF YOU BELIEVE IN PRAYER...

2009-02-27T10:32:00.003+08:00

Matt & I were discussing Lent the other night & trying to think of what we were going to give up, but couldnt agree to anything or think of anything really good. So we decided we would read the Bible every morning & pray more.
And actually I think it was a good Lenten promise. I received an email from a very good friend whose father passed away a couple years ago & her sister's stage 4 ovarian cancer is back for a 2nd time. She was asking friends for support & prayer but felt like she couldnt openly speak about the situation because it hurt too much. My heart is breaking for her & all others in the world in her situation.
I think if you believe in prayer, we need it right now. I think of watching tv & hearing of all these plane crashes & kidnappings of young little girls, people killing innocent children. Its sick. It makes me wonder what the world is coming to. And its frightening hearing about all this. In a Singapore newspaper a man complained about an insurance company not providing good enough hospice care for his wife.
So with all that said, if you believe in prayer, please pray for people all over the world who are facing difficult situations & especially pray for my dear friend. And be sure to thank God for what we have & who we have.
God Bless You All

Laissez les bon temps rouler!

2009-02-25T08:47:00.002+08:00

Since it was so good, I thought I'd share this recipe for Fat Tuesday-Mardi Gras cooking with the world. Actually, it was so good, Matt kept talking about it all night & said I could even feed it to other people. He's such a good sport to eat all my cooking experiments! And, I have to admit it was good too. You may already have one like this, but can always make a few changes to the list & you have a totally different meal.
Natalie's Fat Tuesday Cajun Prawns with Beans and Rice:(for 2 people)
Prawns (or shrimp) ~14 pieces or so
Black Beans(low Na+ low fat) 1 can
Uncle Ben's Whole wheat brown rice
Creole/Cajun seasoning
Rosemary 3-4 sprigs
Thyme 2 sprigs
Lemon 4 lemon rings
Garlic 3 cloves chopped
Onion 1 small red
Olive Oil
Butter
1. In a small baking dish, put 4 or so dabs of butter in the bottom along with 1 tablespoon of Olive oil. Swirl pan, so its gently covered.
2. De-shell prawns, shrimp or whatever meat or fish you decide to use. And put bare prawns into baking dish.
3. In a small mixing bowl, pour drained black beans in and add 1 Tbsp of olive oil, 1/2 small red onion, and sprinkle a few dashes of Cajun seasoning. Let sit.
4. In a sauce pan/skillet add 3-4 Tsp butter with 1 Tsp olive oil and saute onions and garlic on as low heat as you can. Next add rosemary & thyme (add more butter or olive oil if sauce is too thick. Let sit on as low heat as you can. Add creole/Cajun seasoning & stir often until ready to serve. Keep warm.
5. Pour sauce mixture from skillet over the prawns in your baking dish. Heat in the oven 10-15 minutes . After the first 7 minutes, remove from oven, stir mixing juice & prawns. Before putting back in the oven, place 4 lemon rings over the prawns & heat in the oven 7 more minutes. Remove when done. Place in serving bowl & keep warm.
6. While the prawns are cooking in their 2nd cycle, place black beans in a skillet over med. heat & cook for a few minutes. Let them come to a good simmer, while stirring, then remove from heat & place in a serving dish as well.
7.Rice should be cooked along with the beans. Cooking takes 10 minutes & directions on the box should be followed. Place in dish to serve when done.
Dinner is ready & should be served while still warm. It is great served with french bread. Let your dinner "guest" pile on the mixture how they like it; reasons why my recipe calls for serving in seperate bowls. You can use the extra lemon you have in water to drink, its refreshing with the Cajun spices!

CHECK IT OUT...

2009-02-24T07:40:00.002+08:00

Follow this link: http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSN23265425

It applies to me as well, we can all try to be better at controlling our tempers, stress levels, taking our frustrations/problems/insecurities, etc... out on other people. This is going to be my new new years resolution, and for Lent as well.
Anger is nasty! It never does any good in the end anyway.

PICTURES

2009-02-23T10:37:00.002+08:00

You can view pictures from my parents visit to Singapore by clicking the Pineapple Rice blog on the right. There are lots of sights to see!

THE GREATEST

2009-02-20T07:52:00.004+08:00

Reasons I love my husband would be way too long to list on this page, but I do love him so much. He is truly an amazing man. And I am one lucky girl :) He is everything to me....and I thank God for him every day. He is one in a million!

I love you Matt!

AN ADVENTURE!

2009-02-19T08:36:00.004+08:00

Orchids at Singapore Botanical Garden

The Fountain of Wealth at Suntec City

Mom, me and Dad ona DuckTour

Mom & Dad at the entrance of a bridge just outside of the Fullerton Hotel

Not as exciting as it sounds, but traveling & touring around with the parents can be an adventure. They are definitely great to hang out with though, as crazy as they can be some times. I've taken them around & done quite a bit, but still not done. Anyways, included some pics to see the sights :)

PLUM TUCKERED OUT!!

2009-02-18T08:59:00.002+08:00

Having the parents here is definitely a blast, but I'll admit (and no offense to them) they are wearing me out! At least we have had several good laughs from time to time.
Saturday we ventured to Chinatown & toured the apartment. Then we had Valentine's Day dinner together at Yantra, an Indian restaurant.
Sunday we rode the train out to Matt's work and got a personal tour of Nordam. Lots of questions....Matt is such a great teacher!
Monday we explored the city, civic district, took a river tour, and walked along the Quays, had a nice lunch and dinner at Lau Pa Sat....gotta love some Satay!
Tuesday Dad played golf at the Marina Bay golf course while Mom and I took in some shopping along Orchard road; bit of a challenge, but she bought 3 pairs of shoes and I got some decorations for the apt & a couple basic tank tops. Nothing too exciting. Went to a Thai place for dinner where they had their first ever dish of Pineapple Rice & loved it!!
Today they are making their way over to the apartment so Dad can check emails for work & then we are off to the Bird Park & Botanical Gardens, followed by a glorious dinner @ Margaritas!! Yummy Mexican food, can't wait!

HUMIDITY

2009-02-16T07:33:00.002+08:00

They're here!! Yep. My parents and all of their luggage, golf bag included, made it safely to Singapore. After a great weekend touring Chinatown, a Buddhist temple, and Matt's work, they are ready for some more! Hopefully we'll have some pictures to post soon so all can see. Hope everyone had a great Valentines weekend!
More to come later-

SINGAPORE FRIDAYS

2009-02-13T07:07:00.002+08:00

I absolutely love Fridays in Singapore...they are the greatest start to the weekend. Matt & I have a standing lunch date every Friday. I travel all the way out to Tampines(like a 30-35 minute train ride from the apt) to meet him for lunch. Its our little Friday ritual we both look forward to all week. Later tonight, probably another date for dinner & home to do some budgeting/financial planning. We live an extremely wild, crazy life as you can tell. But thats ok, cause its our life & is exactly the way we want it. I'm looking forward to Valentine's tomorrow...made an agreement that we set a S$20 limit on gifts....hmmmm there is no telling what that may bring :) But we do have an incredibly nice dinner planned at a new Indian restaurant called Yantra, and my parents will be joining us, as they arrive early tomorrow morning/late tonight.

So an early Happy Valentine's Day to everyone!

Cheers!

JET-LAG HAS CAUGHT UP WITH ME

2009-02-12T10:28:00.007+08:00

Yuck! Jet-lag has finally caught up with me...and I thought I was doing so well. I guess I'll have to give in to the fatigued, lethargic feeling. It makes me miserable though. I had plans for today!! And I'm exhausted after picking up my bottle of water to drink! Nice huh? Its the glorious part of traveling over here most people dont get to hear about. At least I can lounge around home, poor Matt has to work all day. His will probably come this weekend...lovely. What time should I wake him up this weekend? is the number one question, cause he'll sleep all day if I let him.

Yesterday I threw a bit of a Singapore fit. Got up on the wrong side of the bed, maybe. Not much was agreeing with me during the day. It seemed like everyone I talked to was rude or didnt understand me, the cashier at the market was rude cause I paid in S$1 coins(the bill was like S$17...hehe), the Singapore post machine didnt work, and I raised my voice to 2 women on the phone, who were very unhelpful. Just one of those days I should have stayed in bed. But, after a quick talk with Matt, I was able to pull myself out of my funk...thank goodness, before he got home. Its hard here sometimes, I miss or think of how easy things are at home...but then again, are they really that easy or was I just not getting my way?

PACKIN A LUNCH

2009-02-11T06:54:00.004+08:00

Never in my life, have I EVER been accused of putting 2 pieces of cheese on someone's sandwich until this morning. Lovely. Hey, by the way, since you looked so hard, you may have noticed that its actually 1 piece of cheese broken into 2 halves, 1 piece put on each side of the bread. Not that it matters(actually it does to Matt) but I just needed to clarify that. Moral of the story, have all your facts correct before you go accusing people of things. Otherwise you may be do laundry and packing your lunch :)(Inside joke there).
Amazing, newlywed life & our worst argument(if you can even call it that since it was more of a hey do this instead of that & I'm like I already do...oh snap!) is over cheese on a sandwich. Ahhh...the life. Its absolutely great! I love my husband & all his wonderful quirky attributes! We were definitely made for each other, no doubt!
With that said, learn to love the crazy things or even annoying things your spouse does. They are their own person & its better to love than to hate!
Love to all!

MORNINGS...YES I AM A MORNING PERSON

2009-02-10T06:57:00.003+08:00

This morning Matt & I got up extra early...5am to go for a walk/run. We have been trying to get back in the habit, and I even went & got new running shoes before we came back. I absolutely love the mornings we get up together & go for walks or runs. They are so refreshing & I love the time I get to spend with my husband. We usually get some good talking done. It is so nice, the city is quiet and its still somewhat cool(80 degrees)...perfect! What a great way to start the morning. I have forgotten how truly good it feels to get the blood pumping early in the day!
Hope you all have great starts to your days!

I LOVE BEING MARRIED!!

2009-02-09T14:11:00.005+08:00

In honor of a new year, new husband and new beginings, I thought I would start my own blog, to give Matt & myself a little independence...still keeping & updating Pineapple Rice, so no worries there. Just thought I'd give myself some freedom of expression...or whatever you want to call it. Maybe I need it as journal, to keep a record of what a day in the life of a Sinagpore housewife is like.

Day 1 of blogging:

Got the hubs off to work(lunch packed as always), did laundry, unpacked all suitcases, re-arranged closet situations since we are married now, emailed, talked to the rents, looked at wedding pics, talked to husband, started new blog, about to finish more laundry, hopefully take a shower soon & look good for when my man gets home.

It really is exhausting. Who new being a housewife would take so much work??

And ps- maybe I sound a little chessey or newlywed-ish, but married life is great! I cant think of anything better right now. We are loving being married! It really is awesome. Life & love is great!!

And one more thing, its kind of embarassing because friends who know me well with laugh with me, but I must say, I have become quite the homemaker, laundry-mat, and good cook over the past few weeks. Pat myself on the back for those.

Til next time