Squash, not just a vegetable!

My week of flying solo in Singapore comes to end tomorrow morning when Kellie gets back from Ireland - more accurate - it ends when she wakes up from the nap she'll need after returning from Ireland. I'm jealous of her for three reasons: 1.) She has a job and something to do 2.) With this trip she's now Platinum on American and 3.) She got to enjoy some cool weather for a week. It's freakin hot here.

One thing I'll say about my experience so far here, is that once you find people from Europe and the States to chat with, there's an almost instant understanding that takes place. We're all adjusting to the cultural differences in Singapore from our homes. It's great to find out that things like walking in a mall, waiting for a train or elevator, having people walk into you - that I'm not alone in my severe frustration. It's on us to become accustomed to how things work here - we're sure as shit not changing the 5M other folks in Singapore. But while trying to adjust - it's a fantastic feeling to sit down to some overpriced high-octane beer and commiserate. Commiserate is the same as bitching about it, right?

On the job hunt side, there have been just a couple developments. I finally spoke with a recruiter who explained that the reason her compatriots have been ignoring me is that I have no regional experience. Recruiters in Asia, I guess, will only work with you if they anticipate an immediate return. It's basically human trafficking. I have, however, had a couple interviews with a media company here and think there may be an offer coming early next week. That said, we're worlds apart on the compensation package. I'll see how it plays out as it's an "ok" opportunity. I'm worried that I'm going to just take the first thing that comes along as a defense against the unbearable boredom that accompanies NOT having a job. However, if it doesn't build a new skill set for me to bring home, or pay me gobs of money, then what's the point?

Played squash last night with some friends - and yes, it probably was as funny to watch as you think it was. It's like racquetball only the ball has very little bounce to it. I used to love racquetball, however that was about 9 years and 60 lbs ago. Felt good to get out of the house for a while, get a good work-out, and sweat something fierce. I'm hoping for a routine whereby I can get out there and play once a week. Judging by how much my ass hurts today, it was solid exercise.

Tonight a big group us are going for Indian food (cue funny looks and concerns for my digestive system). Place is supposed to be exceptional and I've never had Indian food so how could I say no. Besides, as with most of the food here, it works best when I test-drive things so I can make recommendations for stuff Kel would like.

So I'm staying busy. Many have asked how I'm doing on the non-smoking thing. I'd love to say it's been easy, but anyone who's been down this road knows it isn't. I'm proud to say, though, that I'm wearing my first Step 2 patch today, which means I've been quit now for a month. So far so good. It helps that spending time outside results in a required t-shirt change, and that since booze is so expensive, you tend to drink less often.

One thing I know I have to get better at is staying connected to the news at home. I'm oblivious to life outside of this hotel room. My realtor last weekend was the first to inform me that we were in fact bombing Libya. I've got to get better about that. Also since it's rare I get to talk to ya'll at home, facebook is clutch.

Now is about the time of day when I make myself scarce for an hour so Eleanor can clean the room. (Mind you, I have no idea what her name is, but she calls me Mr. Chris, so I needed something)