Yippee! A New Entry :)

Ok, I can finally send this - I've known for about a week that the new contract WOULD be signed, but didn't want to say anything until the new contract WAS signed. so.....the new contract is signed and we will stay here, working for Maccine, for another 2 years, with an option for 1 additional year. We have more money (the WHOLE reason for getting a new contract in the first place!) and better benefits (at least more protected ones that are on paper). We've learned a thing or two while living here the last 2-1/2 years -- we thought we made more money than we'd ever deserve, but quickly realized that with housing costs (SGD$3000/mo - and that's the CHEAP place!!) and food costs (SGD$100 for 2 plastic sacks of groceries) utilities (SGD$1000/mo) taxes (which we pay out-of-pocket because there are no deductions, so the paycheck seems much larger than it really is) and 2 taxes (we pay taxes to both Singapore and USA) that we barely made enough to make ends meet and still buy a plane ticket home. We also learned that handshakes and verbal promises don't protect you - get it in writing! But in spite of all the negative, we like it here enough, and have some unfinished business to attend to, that we will stay and be happy. Besides, we still have some kids that haven't been here yet - Mandy and Blake come in only 2 more days - we're gonna romp and stomp and ride around :) :) Have a good day! :o) Oh - and Lynnette & George win the prize for the most blog entries! GOOD JOB, everyone - keep 'em coming ;)