Good Things Come to an End

If our blog Kevin and Karie in Singapore was a book, then I would say this post is the final chapter, our swan song. This past year in Singapore has brought us many blessings and experiences that will forever be a part of our lives. Kevin's assignment was originally planned for 2 -3 years, but his project has undergone some changes that led to the decision for him to return to the Greenville office. He will start his new position as Quality Manager responsible for monitoring and managing the quality program for the marketing and sales group within IT. He's excited to start his new job. Even though Kevin's job in Singapore brought many challenges and frustrations, he is thankful for the opportunity he had and the whole experience of living and working in Singapore.

Even though we didn't have time for every good thing Singapore has to offer, we are satisfied with what we have experienced during the past year:

• Eating strange and exotic foods, such as Japanese small red octopus, mango sago, steamed pork buns, mooncakes, fish heads, durian and Starbucks green tea frappuccino with floating sweet azuki red beans.

• Standing on top of Marina Bay Sands and riding the Singapore Flyer taking in 360 degree views of the Singapore skyline, the bay and into the distance looking toward Indonesia.

• Shop til you drop took on a whole new meaning. My feet literally burned after a typical day riding the MRT and walking around shopping malls, food hawker stalls and markets too numerous to count.

• Exploring Clarke Quay, Sentosa, China Town, Arab Street, Little India, etc. etc.

Japanese Soba noodles and tempura

Mango Sago in coconut milk

Part of being an expat in Singapore is taking advantage of all the close options for travel. We visited Bali, Indonesia in December, and relaxed on a secluded beach in Koh Samui, Thailand in May. Kevin went on two business trips:  Shanghai, China and Delhi, India.

We have met people from all over the world, learned about different cultures and foods, and attended a wonderful church where we were truly blessed with friends and volunteering with ESL. It was hard to say goodbye, but family and Greenville, South Carolina was calling us home. I ask myself the age old question..."Would I do it all over again?" The answer is a definite yes! We experienced a whole new way of life that was adventurous in every way. The smells (good and bad), ever-changing skyline, masses of people, and constant noise was both stressful and exciting. No more hopping on Mercedes buses, riding in cabs, squeezing into MRT trains, and walking for miles when ever we wanted to go anywhere. It's back to driving cars like normal people. Normal.... interesting word now.

Maybe someday we might have another chance living in some far and distant land again.
Who knows.....