What a Difference a Week Makes!

At this time last week, we were running all over town, trying to find furniture, cell phones, and basic household necessities - all without our Identification Cards.  And we still had to unpack the 9 duffle bags we brought with us, as well as setting up the bed, and unpacking the things we bought after we arrived.  Now we have a couch, tables, chairs, and a  pretty well-stocked kitchen.  And, this morning, we went to the Ministry of Manpower, (does that sound more like "1984" or "Harry Potter"?), and got our Identification Cards.  We still don't have our cell phones, but we're waiting 'til the Chinese New Year celebrations are over to get those.

After getting our ID Cards, we were able to relax, and take advantage of our apartment's facilities.  The main pool is kind of like an "8", with seating around each circle.  In the middle, it winds between buildings, so that you view it from the workout room.  In the picture, you'll see the workout room on the right.  Then it has a more shallow pool, in which there was a dad and his baby swimming when we were there.  Finally there is a fountain, or sprayground type of pool.  There's also a clubhouse, that still needs to be explored.  There are several barbecue areas, that can hold up to 30 people, and can be reserved with a $10 deposit.  If anyone ever comes to visit us, we could reserve it.

The workout room is on the right of the tunnel.

The "sprayground" and children's pool

Seating around the pool

Rich, soaking up the atmospere.

The other side of the tunnel.

Rich, in front of The Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

The pool area was very busy when we went, because many people have at least a 3-day weekend due to Chinese New Year.  It was a welcome reprieve after the past few hectic weeks.  We left after several hours, and got back to our apartment just in time to see the "daily downpour".  It was lovely while it lasted!