we look forward to seeing you at one of our holiday events!

BAMBOO TELEGRAPHAMERICAN WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE

December 2016

We Look forward to seeing you at one of our holiday events!

TWINKLE, TWINKLE

ORCHARD PARADE HOTELBALLROOM LEVEL 21, TANGLIN RD, SINGAPORE 247905

- MERRY EVERYTHING CHRISTMAS -

8 December 2016 - Thursday 9 December 2016 - Friday

10.00am - 7.00pm (Thursday)9.00am - 5.00pm (Friday)[email protected] HANIS HUSSEY/KATE 8490 4872|

Our Christmas Bazaar brings you a variety of vendors specially curated for this HolidaySeason. Shop early, under one roof and you won't have to fret 'bout gifts later!

We understand how daunting going to the dentist can be, which is why we aim to make you feel at home, away from

home. Whether it’s maintaining a healthy set of pearly whites or attaining your dream smile, we’ll be your partner in holistic

dental care for your entire family at both our clinics.

...a reason to smile...a reason to smile

15 Dempsey Road #01-09 Singapore 249675 Email: [email protected]

Website: www.hedgerscarpetgallery.com.sg

6462 0028 Open daily 10.30am - 7.00pm

CarpetClearance SaleUp to 70% off

Professional Carpet Cleaning & Restoration Services Available

Bamboo Telegraph December 2016 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 1

Contents

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Please be advised that any names listed in this publication, the AWA directory or any other material published by AWA are for the exclusive use of AWA members only. Any commercial use is strictly prohibited. The Bamboo Telegraph is published 10 times per year. The American Women’s Association and the Bamboo Telegraph neither endorse nor take responsibility for the opinions expressed herein. Please address all comments and queries to the Bamboo Telegraph Editor. AWA does not endorse or promote any product or service offered through any advertisement that may appear in the Bamboo Telegraph.

President's MessageNewcomers NetworkChoir Holiday ConcertAWA International ChoirCommunity OutreachArts & CultureHome Tour RetrospectiveHoliday LuncheonHoliday Lights TourGreen CornerActivitiesLocal ToursPhotographyTennisGolf ShotsWriters’ BlockThe Expat Empty NesterFlirting with FoodCalendar

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• Bookings open on the first working day of the month.• You must register in advance to attend an event, online registration is available at www.awasingapore.org• If an event is full, please join the waitlist. If a member wishes to cancel & cannot find a replacement, they can cancel their space with the AWA office. The space will then be offered to the waitlist, in date order.• The event ends at approximately the listed time.• Only adults over 18 years may attend AWA tours unless otherwise designated.• Family members and out of town guests pay AWA member price, other Singapore residents pay the guest price.

AWA Registration Policies

AWA Cancellation Policies• If the event is marked NO CANCELLATION, then no refund can be given.• All other AWA event fees include a $5 non-refundable admin charge. This cannot be returned under any circumstances.• You may cancel your attendance at an event by emailing [email protected] 4 working days prior to the event.• If you paid online, we will refund you via Paypal. If you paid by any other method you will be asked for your preferred refund method, cash or check.• You may transfer your attendance to another AWA member or to another identical event (e.g. Mahjong game to Mahjong game) no less than 4 working days prior to the event, by emailing [email protected] with the new attendee’s name.• Cancellations received within 4 working days of the event will not be refunded.

Bamboo Telegraph Production Team

BT EditorNiki [email protected]

BT StaffCoreen KnoxOlga Terekhova

BT AdvertisingHanna [email protected]

Visit us on the internet:www.awasingapore.org

Facebook: American Women’s Association of Singapore - AWA

Questions, comments and administrative issues, please email us: [email protected]

Printed byXpress Print (Pte) Ltd6880-2881, fax [email protected] [P] 020/03/2016

1WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORGBamboo Telegraph December 2016

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President's Message......

AWA MISSION STATEMENT:The American Women's Association is a sisterhood of women from around the world, who come together to enhance their Singapore experience through fulfilling volunteer run events and activities.

• All AWA memberships now expire 12 months from the date you join.• The AWA welcomes all nationalities, not just Americans.• Although we rent office space from the American Club, you do not

need to be a club member to join. • As an AWA member you do not qualify for access to the Club facilities.• AWA guest fees apply to Singapore residents. Out of town guests and

family members pay the AWA member price.• Guests are entitled to attend 2 events (in total, not per year) before we

ask them to join the AWA to continue participating.

10 Claymore HillSingapore 229573

General Manager: Sarah CockerillMain: 6734-4895

Office Hours:Monday-Friday 9:30 am to 4:00 pm

www.awasingapore.org

American Women’s Association of Singapore

Bamboo Telegraph December 20162 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG

FAQ’s/Important Information

Tara Eastep

Happy Holidays! December always feels like a sprint to the finish line. Business seems to be the theme as I race from event to event, party to party, last minute shopping. Usually, by the time the kids are out of school, I am exhausted and much in need of the slowdown the holidays can offer. Moving out of the States, first to Germany then to Singapore, has meant attempting to maintain holiday customs and traditions, but sometimes finding the need to improvise and be a bit flexible. My first Christmas in Germany, I awoke the day after Christmas ready to hit the after Christmas sales only to discover the entire country remained shut down for a holiday called Boxing Day. Not only had I never heard or celebrated this holiday before, I was running low on essentials and the stores remained closed. I sure was thankful for the overflow of holiday leftovers and in the end, I was quite happy to start a new tradition of spending the day after Christmas in my PJs reading and relaxing following the holiday frenzy. As my family transitions this year, we are putting to bed old traditions, coming up with new ones, but remembering to focus on the blessings we have and our time together.

I do love the Christmas events offered by the AWA that have become a part of my holiday traditions in Singapore. The holiday luncheon is always a perfect way to kick off the season. Dana Thompson, 3rd Vice President and Holiday Luncheon Chair extraordinaire, plans and executes a delightful day of shopping, dining and wining that is sure to put anyone in the festive spirit. And I absolutely love the annual holiday lights bus tour. The lights, friends and smiles of the children always leaves me with a good feeling albeit sweaty as well. Joy Marino, has chaired our holiday lights bus tour for the past two years, orchestrating a fabulous family evening and even offering a later adult only bus. Sadly, Joy will be repatriating back to the US this December. She will be greatly missed. I wish her and her family well as they settle back into their life in Texas.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas! To all those traveling over the holidays, I wish you safe travels and merry times. For all those moving out of Singapore this December, I wish you the best on your new life journey. For those of you spending the holiday season in Singapore, I look forward to seeing you at one or both of our holiday events this season! Keep an eye out for the upcoming events in 2017. It promises to be another spectacular year for the AWA!


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WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG4 Bamboo Telegraph December 2016

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N e w c o m e r s N e t w o r kBy Becky Matakas

Recently, I noticed a mom with her small children at our apartment complex. The family had recently moved to Singapore, and the little ones were the new kids at the playground. One of the girls ran off and easily found a new friend with which to climb the playground equipment, but the other seemed tentative and shy and clung to her mom’s leg. Her mom was trying to coax her to let go. “It’s ok, sweetie, go ahead and play!” she told her, while attempting to peel her daughter’s little arms and hands from the firm grip they had on her mom’s leg.

This story could have taken place anywhere in the world. We’ve all seen it before. It’s not much of a stretch as expats and adults, though, to identify ourselves with either of the kids. Some days we head off and go about our day with a sense of adventure, meeting friends who join us for coffee, or join us as we search for a grocery store or salon. Even as adults, though, some days we can feel like the other little girl, holding on to our comfort zone for dear life, needing to be coaxed into taking that first step into the unknown.

I had a conversation recently with some of the girlfriends that I’ve met through AWA, many of whom are a year or two into their first expat assignment (myself included!). Having never lived abroad before, we were shaking our heads in wonder at the fact that two years ago, we never would have dreamed that we’d be doing the things we’ve been doing in Southeast Asia. I mean, who could foresee that we’d be riding in tuk-tuks through Hoi An, Vietnam? Who ever thought that climbing the Great Wall of China would figure into our future? If someone had told us that we’d be eating authentic Thai food in Bangkok, or touring the temples of Siem Reap, we would have shaken our heads in disbelief.

In many ways, each of these experiences owes a great deal to the fact that we’ve been able to set out and take that first step. Being able to travel and experience Asia in a mindful way, where we’re grateful for the experience, started the first time we walked down the jetway in anticipation of moving here. Now, we take in stride the truth that we moved to the opposite side of the world, after saying goodbye to everything in our comfort zone. We tend to minimize the growth that we’ve had from letting go of the things we know we can’t control. We even forget those difficult times when we realize how hard it is to be an expat. But the reality is, each of these things (and so many more), has informed and shaped the way we experience everyday life as an expat. Think about how your comfort zone has shifted since you arrived here, even if you’ve been here for less than a month. All because you loosened your grip.

As members of AWA Singapore, the good news is that we have a fantastic network of women and an almost daily opportunity to meet up and participate in a group, tour, or coffee. Sharing our ups and downs, exploring our neighborhoods, and forming friendships will most certainly be the greatest ways that we remember our expat life in Singapore.

AWA INTERNATIONAL CHOIR HOLIDAY CONCERT

Home Away From HomeSleigh Bells…Chestnuts Roasting…Toys on Parade…

Join AWA Members, friends and family as we bring the joy of holiday memories in a “Home Away from Home” evening of song to you.

Date: Thursday, December 8Time: Doors open 7 pm / Concert starts 7:30 pm

Venue: Hollandse Club, Main Banquet HallCost: Adults $32 / Children 12 and under $25

Tickets include a refreshment and snacks.

Register online at www.awasingapore.org


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OUTREACHAn AWA Volunteer’s Experience at kidsREAD

by Machelle Robbins

Part Two of a Five Part Series Highlighting the AWA Community Outreach Partners

In the U.S., my work day began with the ringing of the school bell, the sounds of kids in hallways moving towards classrooms, and the general buzz of a school. Like so many trailing spouses, I resigned my position to follow my spouse around the world to start a new chapter in life. After the initial settling-in period and the excitement of the big move wore off, I began to miss the sights and sounds of school. I wasn’t sure if I would have the chance to work with kids while in Singapore but being a kidsREAD volunteer has afforded me the opportunity.

My first day to volunteer, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Would a Singapore school be different? Would the kids be different? As I walked in to the school library and saw the decor, the shelves of books, and heard the kids, I realized that the schools and students here are not so very different from what I was used to back home. Like home, schools are filled with children, and all the excitement and energy they bring. As the bell rang and the children came in to the library saying, “Teacher, teacher, hello!,” I felt such happiness that I was getting to work with them. Each time I volunteer, I am reminded how similar all kids are. The mischievous boys and girls have to be separated so they do not poke and prod each other. The quiet, shy kids need to whisper their answers. And in a school where the teaching language is English, they all must be reminded to speak English, not their native or other language they may speak at home.

I attend each session thinking and hoping the kids will like the book I read and learn something new, but I am the one who ends up learning. One particular book we read was about a little girl who befriends a squash plant but needs to plant ‘her’ before winter arrives. As I planned for the lesson, I did not think about Singapore really only having one season and that these kids do not get to experience changes the seasons bring. That day, as we talked about the different seasons, I had to adjust my way of thinking and I tried my best to describe how snow looks and feels. Because of kidsREAD, I am getting to know so much about children here and their way of life.

Some might think you need to be an educator to volunteer for kidsREAD. That is not the case. You just need to love kids and be enthusiastic about interacting with them. There are plenty of schools and centers throughout Singapore that need volunteers to work in their kidsREAD programs. It would be great to fill the open positions with more AWA volunteers.

kidsREAD is a nationwide reading program officially launched in 2004. It is a collaborative effort by the National Library Board and other groups to promote the love of reading and cultivate good reading habits among young Singaporeans, specifically children from low-income families. The target audience of kidsREAD is children between the ages of 4 and 8. If you are interested in being a volunteer for this wonderful program, please email [email protected].

For more information about kidsREAD, please visit www.nlb.gov.sg/kidsread/


Arts &

Culture

Arts & Culture

Collectors of contemporary South-East Asian works will graciously open their home which incorporates works from prominent artists in the region. Over the past 10 years, they have built their collection with works that they have fallen in love with. Listen to artist’s stories and philosophies which will shed light on present day issues portrayed in unconventional ways.Muted tones are used to tastefully decorate the 3 story home which acts as a perfect showcase for a diverse selection of artworks- a light-box that resembles an aquarium, a large photo-realistic painting, a cart made from found objects and a large scale family of origami swans. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to view artworks from Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, Korea and Japan...all housed harmoniously under one roof. Register for this event at www.awasingapore.org.

Harmonious Dwelling for Contemporary ArtDate: Wednesday, December 7Time: 10 am to 12 noon

Place: Private Residence, address to be provided to participantsCost: $15 Member, $20 GuestLimit: 14

CAPTIVATING CAMBODIAThe Arts & Culture Committee presents a week of exciting and

insightful events exploring the culture of Cambodia.

Save the Dates: February 13th – 17th, 2017

Day 1: “A Condensed History of Cambodia” (lecture by Dr. Kyle Latinis) – Discover the rich and nuanced history of Cambodia stretching back over 3,000 years. Day 2: “An Artistic Diaspora” (presentation at Intersections Gallery) – learn about the works of contemporary artists of Cambodian origin Day 3: “Weaving Culture” (viewing and talk at EM gallery) – Explore the techniques and beauty of traditional Cambodian textiles.

Day 4: “A Female Dialogue” (presentation by The Tabitha Foundation) – Informative talk on current women’s issues in Cambodia and how solutions are being enacted by the Tabitha charity. Day 5: “The Goddesses of Angkor” (a dance performance) – Enjoy a live performance featuring traditional dancers enacting the legendary tales of the women of Angkor Wat.

REGISTRATION OPENS FIRST WEEK OF JANUARY


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The AWA was thrilled to showcase some of Singapore’s most beautiful properties. Our tour this year included four amazing homes: a black and white style colonial home, a traditional Singapore villa, a modern architectural home, and a modern sea front home out on Sentosa. Many thanks to our AWA members Jazz Chong, Josephine Blunck, Elizabeth Acland and Ingrid Charlton-Briggs for allowing us

to view your gorgeous homes. If you know of any homes that would be an excellent candidate for the 2017 Fall Home Tour, let us know. We are already looking for homes. Please email your suggestions to Lori Nowak at [email protected].

We also want to thank the committee chairs and all of our volunteers that put in many hours of hard work

AWA 2016 Home Tour Retrospective


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to make this event possible: Ingrid Charlton-Briggs, Rania Makriyannis, Anna Dolganow, Becky Matakas, Belinda Zack, Beverly Shemer, Cyndy O’Connor, Colleen Foy, Dana Thompson, Dee Whalen, Kayla Owneson, Laura Cavanaugh, Laurie Porter, Lori Nowak, Lynn Saeger, Meg Ambrosen, Mel Rice, P.J. Wagner, and Terry Young. Also, a big thank you to Taylor B for hosting the

AWA ladies and Jeremiah Lee from Hey Gorgeous for providing all of the wonderful photographs from the event.


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Holiday LuncheonT H E 2 0 1 6 A M E R I C A N W O M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…and you are hereby invited celebrate it at the annual AWA Holiday Luncheon!

Grab your friends and kick off your holidays in style with a fabulously festive afternoon of fine cuisine, wine and shopping! Our popular holiday luncheon features a delicious 3-course lunch paired with wines provided by Merchants Wine Cellar and an exclusive lineup of vendors offering jewelry, clothing, accessories, and home accents to make your holiday shopping a breeze! Complete with a holiday themed photo booth, courtesy of SAIS, and a Lucky Draw for an exciting array of prizes, this event is sure to make your day merry and bright!

Please note: This is a NO CANCELLATION event. Register at www.awasingapore.org

Date: Friday, December 2nd

Time: 11 am to 3 pm

Place: Shangri-La Hotel, Island BallroomCost: $95 Member, $115 GuestLimit: 200

Holiday Lights TourIt’s that time of year again when Singapore’s streets light up with seasonal cheer! Join us for our annual tradition of touring the spectacular Christmas lights on Orchard Road from an open top bus!

Prior to boarding the bus, snacks and treats will be served, along with an opportunity to have your picture taken with Santa Claus. Ticket price includes pre-tour refreshments and a 40 minutes bus tour. Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your bus departure time.

Please Note: This tour is free for children 2 years and below if traveling on their parents’ lap. Any child needing a seat must have a ticket. Rain or shine, we will ride!

This is a No Cancellation event – this supersedes our standard event cancellation policy.

Please contact [email protected] with questions about this event.

Date: Friday, December 9Times: Bus A 7 pm to 8 pm Bus B 7:15 pm to 8:15 pm Bus C 7:45 pm to 8:45 pm Bus D 8 pm to 9 pm Bus E 8:30 pm to 9:30 pmPlace: TBDCost: $25 Member, $32 GuestLimit: 40/bus

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Yes indeed, there are often algae in your soup if you eat at a Japanese restaurant. But far from being a problem, they are delicious and healthy. Your miso soup probably has some green wakame floating around in it, and was likely further flavored with dashi, a mix that includes another seaweed, Kombu.

When your kids excitedly chow down on the “jellies” in their Singaporean goody bags, they are consuming more algae – or rather, extracts of algae. Gelling agents such as agar-agar and carrageenan are used and come from various species of red algae. Those alarmingly hued multi-layered jellies that you can incongruously find at fruit stands of your favorite kopitiam also owe their existence to agar-agar.

Algae, or seaweed?

Algae are aquatic organisms that can range in size from the microscopic (like the diatoms that clogged up fish gills in last year’s massive fish kills) to the humungous (like the kelp forests of California). When they are big enough to see, we often call them seaweed. But what we can’t call them is plants. Although they generally carry out photosynthesis and are often green, they are actually not plants but “protists”. Unlike plants, even large seaweeds lack true leaves, stems, and roots. The parts that look like roots – the “holdfasts” – do not absorb nutrients as roots do.

Local scene

In Singapore, you will find algae everywhere, if you look for them. There are over 140 species in the sea. While green seaweeds are what you may expect (and they are indeed widespread), many types of brown seaweed are present, and are most noticeable now, during the northeast monsoon season (from December to early March). Some red seaweeds are easy to notice if you look at low tide, but others will fool you into thinking they’re actually part of the rocks. As for freshwater species, our rivers and reservoirs shelter over 30 species of algae. And not to be ignored, there are over 40 species living on land.

“Waiter, there’s some algae in my soup/candy/water/(fill in the blank)!”

Green CornerBy Melissa Diagana

Jellies made with carrageenan, extracted from red seaweed

Edible kelp, a brown seaweed

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Mixed marriages

Algae on land? Yes, and to top it off, often in a marriage with a fungus. Everywhere you turn in Singapore, you see orange- or green-colored splotches on leaves, bark, rocks, even walls - the lichens. Most of the algal partners are microscopic green algae, and most of the fungal partners are of the “sac fungus” type, and are not able to live in the wild without their algal better half. Lichens are very diverse in tropical forests, and here the greatest diversity is found in the Singapore Botanic Gardens and on Pulau Ubin.

If you snorkel, you have seen many other examples of algae’s mixed marriages. The colors of the beautiful corals – both hard and soft - are often due to the algae that live inside their tissue. The corals shelter the algae and feed them with nutrients from their own waste. The algae, in turn, carry out photosynthesis and thus provide food for the corals, and even help them build their skeleton. Coral “bleaching” occurs when stressed corals eject their algae. Those ghostly white corals will eventually die if they are not able to find new algal partners.

So whether we eat them, or eat things that eat them, study their roles in maintaining marine ecosystems, learn about their influence on cloud formation, use them as fertilizer, or smile back at the giant clam lips they color, we realize that organisms that are so easy to ignore are actually quite important.

Lichen on bark at MacRitchie Reservoir

Algae on leaves at MacRitchie Reservoir

A red seaweed at Sisters’ Island

A green seaweed at Sisters’ Island


American Women’s Association ActivitiesSpecial Interest GroupsAfter Ni HaoSusan Yoshimura, [email protected] Ideal for those taking Mandarin lessons, who want more opportunity to speak, or native speakers willing to help enthusiastic learners. We meet every Thursday at 10 am to practice our speaking and listening skills. Our aim is to practice what we have learned.

Beading BuddiesMalu Kaul, [email protected] all those who enjoy beading, want to improve your skill level or meet new friends, just bring along your beads, your tools and your inspiration and join us! We meet every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm in a member’s home.

Book GroupsMeg Ambroson, [email protected] styled book groups allow you the opportunity to meet other women and to participate in a regular discussion of books. Book group members decide on the books to read in advance so that everyone has ample time to obtain and read them. For a more comprehensive listing of book groups’ meeting times, openings and book lists, contact the coordinator. Cancer Support GroupJean Leng Goh, [email protected] group meets once a month during the third week of the month. All are welcome to join. The focus is on mutual support and sharing information among fellow cancer patients, survivors and friends. Contact the coordinator for additional information.

Christian ConnectionAngel Corrigan, [email protected] Connection provides valuable information and resources to help you and your family connect with local churches, youth organizations, Bible study groups and more. We act as a clearing house for information on ‘What’s On’ within the Christian Community in Singapore.

International ChoirMaribel Bawa, [email protected] the direction of Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts Music graduate Lee Khim Chong, the AWA International Choir rehearses and performs concerts in both Fall and Spring seasons. New members are welcomed at the beginning of each season: early September and mid-January. Rehearsals are every Wednesday from 10-12 at St. Bernadette’s Church. Performances occur around early May and December, when the choir sings at a local elderly center, a school for special needs children, two hospices and at a selected major venue.

Motivational book groupMae-Ling Tien, [email protected] on promoting positive outlooks, attitudes and behaviors in our lives, our group meets once every two weeks on a Tuesday morning from 10 am to 12 noon to discuss a section of a personal development book. Books are selected by group consensus.

PhotographyHeather Goessel & Michelle Edmunds, [email protected] to know your city and meet like-minded people interested in photography. Participate in our regular monthly outings on the 10th of each month and critique session every second month.There will be critique/advice sessions throughout the year.

QuiltingCyndy O-Connor, [email protected] is an opportunity to pick up your quilting again! Perhaps you are looking for companions who share the passion of quilting. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays from 10 am - 3 pm.

ScrapbookingSusan Studebaker-Rutledge, [email protected] you want to get all your priceless photos organized, this is the group for you. We usually meet the first and third Thursdays of the month at 10 am. Please contact Susan if interested.

Writers’ GroupLucia Damacela, [email protected] your inner writer! Beginning and published writers meet to discuss their works in a non-threatening atmosphere. We meet every other Thursday from 10 am to 12 noon at a member’s home or a coffee shop.

Social ActivitiesBar NightEach month, step out and about in Singapore with the Bar Night team! Throughout the year, the team will be arranging drinks for you at new venues and old favorites. There will be ladies nights, couples nights and opportunities for you to bring new friends to the AWA. This is a great opportunity to try something new - bar nights are free events and you are welcome to bring friends and (when applicable) partners. You can register for bar nights via the events calendar of our website. (We do ask you to register, so we can get an idea of numbers and also sometimes due to venue space constraints.) BridgeAWA has many options for Bridge players! To find out which group is right for you, email Alison Robb at [email protected]

CouplesSock-Yan Sim, [email protected] you and your spouse or partner enjoy eating, drinking, socializing and playing bridge? We play once a month on a Saturday evening, and we rotate houses. Each couple is asked to bring a drink and an hors d’ouevres; the hosting couple makes a dessert. The format is party bridge, using Chicago scoring, and the couples play as partners. The idea is that we will just play fun, casual bridge, socialize and make new friends!DuplicateEsme Parish, [email protected] Monday afternoons we play Duplicate Bridge according to American standard five-card major rules. Players do not need a partner to join. We do play duplicate but we randomly determine partners on the day of play or you are welcome to pair up ahead of time. Registration is via the AWA website. This is a fun afternoon of bridge at the friendliest game in town!Social Seema Joshi, [email protected] Bridge is for ladies who want to improve their game in a relaxed conversational atmosphere. We play a “Chicago” Four-Deal Rotation, changing partners throughout the afternoon. We accept players from “experienced beginner” upward, with our more advanced players happy to coach those newer to the game. Every few weeks a new bidding convention is introduced or reviewed with set hands for practice. We play on Thursday afternoons in the Orchard area. BuncoMachelle Robbins, [email protected] is a simple dice game but mostly it’s a fun excuse to get together once a month, meet new people, see old friends and enjoy some adult beverages. Contact Machelle if you would like to join the afternoon or evening group.

Children’s PlaygroupsGet out of the house and gather in a comfortable, safe and stimulating setting for the little ones to interact and learn important social skills while moms chat over coffee. If you would like to start or participate in a playgroup please post on the AWA Kid’s Social Network Facebook page.


American Women’s Association ActivitiesDISH (Diner in Sensory Heaven)Kathy Dolny, [email protected] DISH is a monthly social luncheon, located at various savory restaurants throughout Singapore. Grab the hand of a friend and join us. Please email or join the AWA DISH Facebook group page to find out more.

EuchreRosanne Hebert, [email protected] a month on a Friday or Saturday evening, byob and munchie. Ice and mix to be provided by host. We will alternate homes/ party function rooms. Beginners and husbands welcome! Easy to learn!

MahjongSiew Wei Ngiam, [email protected] play the international style in a low-stress, FUN and ‘learner-friendly’ atmosphere on Mondays between 1 pm - 4 pm at Boomarang Robertson Quay for $10/person (inclusive of one drink). You can either register to play as an individual or as a table of 4 (limited availability). If you are new to Mahjong, please email me to arrange for the required 2 training lessons before.

Movie LunchAnne Perng, [email protected] AWA Movie Lunch Group meets once a month for lunch followed by a movie in the Orchard Road area. To be added to the regular mailing list, please go to the Movie Lunch page on the AWA website and register for the mailing list.

SportsGolf18-hole group: Monica Devereux, [email protected] group: [email protected] our 18-hole group on Wednesday mornings, or our 9-hole group on Thursday mornings for a friendly round of golf on regulation courses here in Singapore. Registration is via the AWA website. A handicap is required for 18-hole and our 9-hole group is perfect for beginners or to work on your short game.

TennisMichelle Ford, [email protected] tennis committee offers a variety of singles and doubles play for players of all levels. The seasons run from September through December, and February through April. Other team tennis is offered in the off season from December through February. We run three tournaments covering all skill levels. Our hugely popular end of season celebration is held every May when we award coveted bag tags and acknowledge tournament winners. Please contact us at [email protected] to set up a session.

RunningJeanine Stewart, [email protected] us on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings for a group run at 8:30 am. We cater to all levels with a focus on meeting your goals and having fun as we explore various areas of Singapore. Afterwards, we reward ourselves with the appropriate ‘cool down’ at a nearby cafe.

WalkingGloria Carion, [email protected] join a fun loving group of women as we walk all over this amazing island! We have walks for all kinds of walkers ranging from 1 to 3 hours. Each week, walking locations and directions are posted in advance on our Facebook page, AWA Walking with Women. To join, go to our Facebook page, request to join, or email us. Looking forward to walking & talking!

Community ActivitiesCommunity Outreach Kerry Driver, [email protected] This group helps AWA members connect to volunteer opportunities in Singapore. We coordinate volunteer programs for members at five featured organizations, and we review and help promote other volunteer opportunities. Committee members oversee these efforts, and support AWA events to benefit community outreach partners. To learn more about the volunteer programs, see the information below, visit the website for dates and other opportunities, or visit the AWA Singapore Community Outreach page on Facebook and “like” it to receive current news and information via your Facebook newsfeed.

Ronald McDonald House CharitiesMary Porter, [email protected] Sign up to join the pool of AWA volunteers that cover shifts at both the Ronald McDonald House and the Family Room to support the families of children getting treatment at Singapore’s National University Hospital. Humanitarian Organization for Migrant EconomiesCindy O’Connor, [email protected] Volunteer to support one of the AWA programs with the residents at HOME’s shelter for migrant workers in Singapore, where a small group of members go every few weeks to provide education, entertainment or exercise. Mount Elizabeth Visitation Isabella Duncan, [email protected] Donate magazines and / or visit with hospitalized expat patients to keep them company during their time in Singapore’s Mt. Elizabeth Hospital. kidsREADMachelle Robbins, [email protected] Help children in Singapore’s public schools develop a love of reading with kidsREAD, a program supported by the National Library Service especially targeting at risk pre-school and primary school students.Food From The HeartJanet Stride, [email protected] Join other AWA ladies to help pack bags of food that go to families in Singapore cannot afford to feed themselves and their school age children. On other days, AWA volunteers and their family distribute some of those bags to people who can’t get to the distribution centers.

Regular CoffeesWednesdays & Fridays CoffeesLynn Lees, [email protected] Day, [email protected] is a coffee meet every Wednesday and Friday (excluding public holidays) at 313 Somerset in Starbucks, Level 2 from 10 am to 12 noon. It’s a wonderful way to meet new friends or reconnect with old friends. No need to register, just show up.

Meet & Greet (Monthly)Rohita,Rajkumar, [email protected] join us for our monthly coffee as we welcome returning and new members to join us to learn about what the AWA has to offer and to provide help and information to make Singapore feel like home. Details on our membership page.

WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG18 BamBoo Telegraph DecemBer 2016

AWA LocAL ToursLo

cal T

ours

Register for AWA Local Tours at www.awasingapore.org. Bookings open on the first of the month. You must register with the AWA office to attend. If a tour is full, please ask to be added to the waitlist. Tours end at approximately the listed time. You may cancel your attendance at an event by calling the AWA office at 6734-4895, no less than 4 working days prior to the event. All AWA event fees include a $5 non-refundable cancellation charge. You may transfer your attendance to another AWA member, no less than 4 working days prior to the event, by emailing [email protected] with the new attendee’s name. Cancellations received within 4 working days of the event will not be refunded. Only adults over 18 years of age may attend AWA tours unless otherwise designated. Thank you for your understanding.

AWA LOCAL TOURS POLICIES:

Tour guide Charlotte Chu, will bring us on this tour to visit the last remaining businesses that still fashion their wares by hand, a rarity in Singapore, indeed! Have you heard of the interesting hobby of Bird Singing? See it for yourself and be serenaded by these wonderful “Song Birds”.

Our first stop will be right in the HDB heartlands of Ang Mo Kio, where the largest of the Bird Singing

corners in Singapore is located. This is where the birds get to practice their vocal chords, and it’s also a chance for you to chat with the ‘uncles’ who love their birds.

Have you watched Lion Dances and marveled at the colorful Lion Heads? We will visit the last remaining craftsman who makes the Lion Heads from his HDB home. You can even order one of his beautifully crafted Lion Head as a collector’s item.

Have you have seen the giant incense sticks at the temples and wanted to find out more about them? Meet the Joss Stick Man and learn about how they are made. You can have fun too by having a go at using the raw materials to fashion your own creation.

Lastly we meet the ‘master’ craftsman who hand makes some of the gorgeous lanterns that are hanging outside temples and clan associations. His shop also stocks an amazing array of paper offerings that are burnt for the Gods, Ancestors, and Ghosts.

crAfTs And birdsongin The heArTLAnds

3dec

DATE: Saturday, December 3TIME: 8 am – 1 pm

PLACE: Newton Hawker Centre Car ParkCOST: $56 Members / $70 Guests LIMIT: 15

What goes on inside the US Embassy? What else do they do besides renewing your passport?

This is your chance to get a peek behind the public entrance. Due to security, we are not allowed to tour the Embassy. We are however, allowed to leave the

public area, and enter the “behind the scenes” general area. From there, we move on to the conference room where many Embassy meetings take place. Here, the Community Liaison Officer or another staff member, will hold an information session for our group. We will learn about the many diverse roles played by the Embassy in support of U.S. Citizens on foreign soil.

At the end of the tour, we will have a few minutes to visit the Embassy gift shop. You will find gifts bearing the United States Embassy Seal.

U.S. and non U.S. Citizens are welcome.

Security requires that you provide us with your passport information one week prior to the tour, therefore, only registered tour participants will be allowed into the Embassy. Refunds for this tour cannot be given.

Dress Code: Please respectfully wear business causal attire, no shorts, tank tops or flip flops.

on foreign soiL - The u.s. embAssy

DATE: Friday, November 18 OR Friday, December 9TIME: 9:15 am – 12 noon

PLACE: Corner Entrance of Tanglin Mall (outside Starbucks)COST: $10 Members / $15 Guests LIMIT: 17

9dec

BamBoo Telegraph DecemBer 2016 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 19

Local Tours

The Art in Transit program is a bold and imaginative program that brings the works of Singapore’s top artists into the MRT stations and the lives of all who use them. In the process, the stations are transformed into a showcase of Singapore art for the world. For those new

to Singapore, this tour will help you get to know the MRT stations a bit better. For those of you that have been around for a while, be amazed by the artwork you never even noticed!

This Northeast Line tour starts at Dhoby Ghaut and showcases art in four MRT stations.

Art Outreach, a company whose mission is to increase visual art literacy and promote art appreciation in Singapore, will help us gain insight into how the many site specific artworks reflect the cultural and historical heritage of the area and its community. Explore the past character of each neighborhood and gain a better understanding of the many changes that Singapore has experienced and continues to experience.

ArT in TrAnsiT - norTheAsT Line

24jAn

DATE: Tuesday, January 24TIME: 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

PLACE: Dhoby Ghaut MRT StationCOST: $20 Members / $25 Guests LIMIT: 15

Join us as we usher in the Year of the Rooster! On this walking tour our guide Diana will explain the Chinese calendar, customs and taboos of this exciting festival. We shall stroll through the quaint streets to learn the traditions of people past and present. We will see a bakery making special New Year Cakes, shops with ritual papers and incense offered to the gods for prosperity, and a street bazaar selling festive goods.

The tour also includes visits to a Chinese Temple and a Clan Association, both integral part of the New Year celebration.

We end the tour with lunch at a traditional restaurant located in the heart of Chinatown. Diana will tell you all about the do’s and don’ts of Chinese table etiquette. Our menu includes dishes that have symbolic value of auspiciousness. So, if you have always wanted to learn all about the significance of tossing and eating the prosperity salad, locally known as ‘Lo Hei’, and the meaning of the dishes served at Chinese New Year meals, come join us for a toss and a bite!

DRESS CODE: We will be visiting a temple, so please cover your knees and shoulders, and since this is a walking tours, please wear comfortable shoes. Please Note: Food samples may contain pork, seafood, nuts or other allergens. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected].

chinAToWn neW yeAr WALk And Lunch

18jAn

DATE: Wednesday, January 18TIME: 9 am – 1:30 pm

PLACE: Outram Park MRT Exit GCOST: $65 Members / $98 Guests LIMIT: 20

Join us as we usher in the Year of the Rooster! On this walking tour, our guide Diana will explain the Chinese calendar, customs and taboos of this exciting festival. We shall stroll through the quaint streets to learn the traditions of people past and present. We will see a bakery making special New Year Cakes, shops with ritual papers and incense offered to the gods for prosperity, and a street bazaar selling festive goods.

The tour also includes visits to a Clan Association, an integral part of the New Year celebration.

We end the tour with dinner at a traditional restaurant located in the heart of Chinatown. Diana will tell you all about the do’s and don’ts of Chinese table etiquette. Our menu includes dishes that have symbolic value of auspiciousness. So, if you have always wanted to learn all about the significance of tossing and eating the prosperity salad, locally known as ‘Lo Hei’, and the meaning of the dishes served at Chinese New Year meals, come join us for a toss and a bite!

DRESS CODE: Casual but no revealing neckline, bare back, short skirts and shorts. Since this is a walking tour, please wear comfortable shoes. Restaurant is air-conditioned.Please Note: Food samples may contain pork, seafood, nuts or other allergens. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected].

chinAToWn neW yeAr WALk And dinner

20jAn

DATE: Friday, January 20TIME: 5:30 pm – 10 pm

PLACE: Outram Park MRT Exit GCOST: $65 Members / $98 Guests LIMIT: 24


Inte

rnat

iona

l Cho

ir

The AWA International Choir welcomes Khimberly Chong this season as its new musical director. Twenty-two-year-old Khimberly has set herself a big challenge: to revive and "bring to a higher standard" the AWA International Choir. The

recent graduate from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts has her hands full with the lively group of 24 women from all parts of the world. Even Tahiti has a representative in the choir.

Khimberly said it is her first time leading a choir, though she herself sings and performs regularly with the choral group Schola Cantorem Singapore. She is the youngest of three children and the only person in her family to choose music as a profession. She started playing piano when she was five years old and

received her degree in vocal studies. She has also performed in classical guitar ensembles.

"I am new to this, so we will see," Khimberly said of her directorship, "but I hope in time to start introducing more challenging music." Following Khimberly’s lead in the introduction of more challenging music are Marianna Ong and Yoko Kimura, the accompanists this fall season.

In October this year, the choir heard Marianna play the piano accompaniment to the Chinese song entitled “Yue Liang Dai Biao”, which translates to “The Moon Represents My Heart.” Khimberly and Marianna led the singing of this wonderfully written song and the choir group

Young New Director Works to Reinvigorate AWA International Choir


International Choir

managed to learn both the meaning and correct pronunciation of the lyrics in one day. What a feat for a choir with no Chinese speaking members!

One way to reinvigorate the group is to introduce a new outreach venue. When asked which local nursing home community we can reach out to and bring holiday cheer, Khimberly suggested for the group to perform in Sunnyville Home.

The AWA International Choir group’s manager Maribel Bawa took on Khimberly’s suggestion and did not hesitate to set up a meeting with

Don, the assistant coordinator of Sunnyville Home. Iris Koh is the Sunnyville Home administrator and gladly scheduled the AWA International Choir to perform on the first of December.

Located north of Nanyang Technological University and on Ama Keng Road in the Lim Chu Kang District, it is one of the nine centers under the ECON Healthcare Group. The choir group aims to brighten the residents’ day as they sing wintry, dreamy, white christmas-themed songs - a ‘Home Away from Home’ kind of holiday concert to them.

All in all, the AWA choir group will spend the coming months preparing for six holiday concerts. The women will perform in November and December throughout Singapore in nursing homes, a school for special needs children, hospice centers, and in a special evening concert held at the Hollandse Club on December 8.


Phot

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22 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG

Mid-Autumn Latern FestivalA W A P H O T O G R A P H Y

Maurenn Mai

Maurenn Mai

Lucy Wang-Ng

Lucy Wang-Ng

Heather Goessel Heather Goessel


Photography

Maurenn Mai

Maurenn Mai

Lucy Wang-Ng

Lucy Wang-Ng

Lucy Wang-Ng

Heather Goessel

Tenn

is TENNIS Monthly Update

24 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG BamBoo Telegraph DecemBer 2016

Our Hawaiian themed Girls Night Out with free flow tennis was great fun. Grass skirts and leis, a plastic flamingo and bubbles proved a perfect formula when added to social tennis and floodlights on top of the Fairmount Hotel on Savitar’s courts!

Join us on Wednesday 25 January when GNO goes ‘neon’ - 2 hours of round robins with prosecco and nibbles, guaranteed to loosen up that serve!

October is always a fun month in Singapore when the WTA Finals hit town. More than fifty tennis fans attended our AWA group night out. There was plenty of singles and doubles match play to keep us entertained, and it was a wonderful way of getting to know people. Spouses and friends were welcome, and we had a great evening. Marina Stabner, May Gutierrez, Debbie Manning and Sheree Secrett were all lucky winners of a pair of tickets each to the WTA Finals, courtesy of Lagardère Sports.


Tennis/From O

ur Advertisers

Sponsorship Opportunities

Happening Now and Coming Soon

Court fees and general expenses have gone up considerably over the last year. We want to keep fees as low as possible for all members to participate in lots of AWA Tennis events. To help with this we’re currently looking for sponsors to help out with some of these costs - in particular tennis balls, court fees and tournament refreshments. If you (your company/spouse’s company/friend’s company or restaurant) would be interested in underwriting tennis items in return for recognition, please get in touch with [email protected] to discuss further.

• Our January Jubilee beginners tournament will be held during the week of 23rd January at Savitar’s court. Open to 2.5-3.0+ players, start reaching out to potential partners and make sure you get your assessment in time. Registration now open.

• Thursday 12 and Tuesday 24 January - Assessment dates. Register online at www.awasingapore.org.

• Wednesday 18 January - Surviving Tennis in Singapore. If you missed it the first time round, it’s back by popular demand.

• Wednesday 25 January - Girls Night Out ‘neon’ theme. Venue tbc

• Evening Tennis - if you would like to join our new program for tennis on Tuesday evenings, drop a line to our new committee member, Kelly Connolly, at [email protected] so that she can add you to our list.

We have an active Facebook page for

AWA tennis - do join our group and be

kept up to date on our many events.

Dates: January 11, 18, and February 1, 8, 15, and 22Place: Savitar Tennis Centre, Fairmont Hotel 80 Bras Basah Road, 8th floorTime: Wednesdays, 9:30 am - 11 am (approximately)Cost: $220

Savitar Tennis Centre is offering Discover Tennis Clinics. This program is ideal for those that are new to the game of tennis, or still building confidence, and want to learn and reinforce the basic skills. Savitar’s elite team of

tennis coaches will cover all the fundamentals of tennis including forehand, backhand, volley, serve, overhead and basic match play. Emphasis will be on the enjoyment of the game, and ladies will receive an excellent foundation to improve and develop. The clinc is played Wednesdays at Savitar. Sign up through the AWA Website, www.awasingapore.org

SAVITARTENNISCENTRE

Don’t Miss Our Tennis Activities Coming in the New Year!!

“I really regret eating healthy”

said no one ever!

Let me help you to become the healthiest and fittest version of yourself!

Individualized nutrition consultation Analysis of your exercise routine

Book your appointment now! www.nurtureyourhappiness.com


Gol

f Sho

ts GOLF SHOTSAWA Golf Season Update

The 9 hole golfers are off and swinging! After a short trial playing both Mondays and Thursdays, it was decided to carry on with Thursday play only. The new captain of the 9 hole golf is Jennifer Greene.

The 18 hole ladies celebrated the upcoming birth of Megan’s baby by joining for a baby shower! We all got dressed up for a lovely lunch at the American Club and enjoyed watching Megan open the adorable baby gear. Stay tuned for pictures of the new mini-golfer in a future issue!


Writers’ Block

AWA WRITERS’BLOCKA Parsleyed Path to Illumination

By Vanessa Deza Hangad

Writers' Block is a monthly contribution from our AWA Writer's Group members.

In the early afternoon sunlight, heart-shaped anthuriums glow like silvery nautilus shells. These are my mother’s favorite flowers. She created a balcony garden for us a month after I gave birth. It was in November when she came back from Lowe’s Home Improvement with my husband. He walked behind her, carrying sacks of potting soil and a box of assorted plants into the apartment.

“Mom, come on! Why did you guys buy all these? All I wanted was young bamboo and those hollow reeds for my Zen garden.”

My mother smiled but ignored me, pouring a glass of water for herself.

I shot my husband a dirty look as though it were his fault. He, almost as sleep-deprived and exhausted as I was from the first few weeks with our newborn, could only shake his head.

Let it go, I heard him say telepathically.

But I couldn’t do that at the time. I forgot all my meditation lessons from pre-natal yoga classes, the part about treating whatever arose with steadiness of breath and thought.

I huffed after my Mom as she stepped into the balcony, “Look, I already have the river stones, and my Buddhas are right there. I asked for specific plants to complete my Zen sanctuary. I told you I was going for a minimalist look.” I felt like a misunderstood fifteen year old whose burgeoning style had been put into question with one withering glance from her mother.

She was not going to let my postpartum sensitivities dampen her aggressively cheerful disposition. The garden was among her many realms of unquestioned expertise.

“Well, Lowe’s didn’t have your, whatever that was you wanted. Grass or bamboo, was it? But these anthuriums were on sale. And didn’t you want herbs anyway? And look at these geraniums! Almost as nice as the ones in my garden.”

There was no use putting up a fight. Eventually, I did let it go, as my husband sagely modelled for me to do. Besides, she’s gone back home to Los Angeles after a month of helping me regain my strength after childbirth. She taught me how to give my son a bath in the sink. And that his dimpled smiles were sometimes nothing more than involuntary muscle movements, and not necessarily because he was happy to see me. I do miss her green papaya soups and other Filipino home remedies for breastfeeding mothers. It’s too quiet nowadays. My son and I are on our own most of the time. We’ve started talking to the plants.

Hello, parsley. Flat and curly leaf. The first to wilt if the weather is a little warm like it is today. I take the empty liter of Diet Coke and fill it with water. There, I see them perking up slowly, green leaves revived.

Good afternoon, geraniums. Red flowers I always associate with my first time going to Paris and that wonderful boutique hotel in the 17th arrondissement.

Hi, orchids no longer in bloom. A gift we received in early November while still at the hospital. Plastic butterfly clips continue to hold up stems no longer heavy with white fluttery flowers.

I harvest a few sprigs of oregano and pop a leaf of arugula into my mouth, enjoying the peppery kick.

We sit on a canvas chair made more comfortable with faux fur and cushions. My son wriggles on my lap. An airplane passes overhead and he looks up at the blue skies in search of it. He quickly loses interest but is captivated by shadows cast by the potted plants.

The bright San Francisco winter sunlight does not allow for hibernation. All the plants are thriving. Sunlight makes everything glow: the golden Amitabha Buddha statue and Green Tara etched in the stained-glass candleholder are illuminated. And we are at peace among the parsley, in the not really minimalist and yet, still Zen-like balcony garden.


The

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BEFORE THEY LEAVE

1) Recognize these “last times” and enjoy them! Being aware that x time next year, your child won’t be there, it’s good for everyone to remember that.

2) Take photos aplenty— they will come in handy for the “during”. Take shots of them in doing ordinary things: sitting in their room, watching television, walking the dog.

3) Set aside weekly quality time—a lunch, a drink, shopping for “college” stuff, cooking sessions, packing sessions.

4) Have the all-important discussions about the biggies: money, sex, drugs, etc.

5) Get all the child’s important documents together, and make copies so it’s all ready, and you can just hand it to them in a file (keep the originals).

6) Start your WhatsApp groups (if you haven’t done so already)—one for the family and individual ones for each family member.

7) Open a Snapchat account and start using it. This is the way kids communicate nowadays, and if you want an instant response…it will usually be a Snapchat.

8) Have everyone in the family get on a location tracking app like Find My Friends or Glympse. Peace of mind is knowing where everyone in your family is. With any luck, your senior will understand that.

9) Have everybody write goodbye letters and/or exchange presents that will remind your kid about each person in the family.

10) Keep the hugs frequent and plentiful, and try not to nag.

11) Look ahead to when your kid leaves and start planning what you would like to do. Even though you still have kids at home, having one leave does free up some time: what would you like to do?

12) BONUS: I needed this, but even I understand that needs do vary from person to person, indeed from parent to parent. It helped me to start missing my daughter even while she was still at home, and to

talk to her but not in a downer way. I’m a big one for the catharsis of tears, so whenever I felt like crying…even when it was a full year prior to the actual departure, I did. To be honest, I think there are more tears in anticipation.

ME: “I am so excited for you, but I’m sad for me.”KID: “I’m excited… but yes, I’m sad for you too.”

THE DROP OFF

13) If at all possible, plan for everyone to go. Both parents and the kids who are going to be left behind. If siblings can’t —make sure they have ample time for an unrushed goodbye.

14) Plan on getting there a few days early and staying up to a few days after so there is time to enjoy and orient yourself before you drop your kid off at the dorm and time afterwards. Target a protracted goodbye. Contrary to what you might believe…a longer goodbye makes things easier, and is less jarring than an abrupt one.

15) On shopping for the dorm room: scale back and be as minimalist as possible. The less your kid has, the easier it will be for him or her to move independently.

16) Attend all the parent orientation events and acquaint yourself with the campus so even you have the lay of the land.

17) Resist the urge to help organize the dorm room—that’s their job.

18) Scout out brunch places, bubble tea and ice cream and other treat places on campus and off, because they won’t have time to do it.

19) Visit the health center. (your kid won’t go, but it will be comforting for you to know it’s there)

20) Visit the church or appropriate place of worship in the context of your family. Your child may not care for this, but knowing it’s there may come in handy.

21) Do the various walks—from dorm to union, from dorm to the various buildings where classrooms

Just as your senior is ticking off his or her own things to do list for the college application process, graduation and leaving home, you too, as parents, should start up your own checklist. After all, there are dozens of things that you

36 Tips To Ace Your Kid Leaving For CollegeNoelle de Jesus presents a non-exhaustive list of the things she and her family did before, during and after that made this bittersweet milestone just a bit easier to bear.


The Expat Empty N

ester

will be. It’s a good way to put yourself in her shoes, and later on, when she starts talking about where she went, you’ll have some idea what she’s talking about.

22) Eat meal-plan food at least once, so you know what you’re paying for.

23) Explore the campus career office or places where students can get jobs. It’s a good thing to let your kid help fund his college experience.

24) BONUS: Set aside a couple of days to be with your spouse so that you can congratulate each other for a job well done and be both sad and happy together on this bittersweet occasion. What helps? Knowing you are in this together will help, even though you will likely have different ways of managing it.

Be prepared for the notion that you want to stay on campus and get a second degree—you and your

spouse both!

AFTERWARDS

25) Afterwards is often the hardest—you need to cope with the empty room, one less place setting at the dinner table. It’s tough. And instead of the easy tears that you had prior, you’ll be grappling with a dull ache. Recognizing that is all you can do. Know that it truly can’t get any worse.

26) Make use of all technology. We skype with our daughter at least once a week, and try to enjoy a WhatsApp call. There are intermittent snapchats and WhatsApp messages on a daily basis.

27) Save up the stories and the funny things to tell them. Your college kid may not say it, but they want to know what’s going on at home too.

28) Prepare for those times they will get really busy and ignore text messages. It’s really part and parcel of the process.

29) Enjoy the child or the children that are still at home. It sounds obvious, but sometimes we forget the things that are staring us in the face.

Make time and enjoy the new facets that are sure to emerge.

30) Keep busy: a new sport, a hobby, even a part-time job or perhaps something artsy that explores a new side of you.

31) Use snail mail with your college kid—hardly anyone does. Some of the sweetest messages I’ve received from our college kid was good old fashioned gratitude for something I sent her: a box of snacks! And it’s nice for them to come home and check their little mailbox and actually have something in there.

32) Encourage communication between your other kids and their college sibling using whatever medium they wish.

33) Skype sessions are the best! Having one when everyone is present—the dinner or the breakfast table—is almost like having your college kid home again.

34) Find out about their everyday. Get them to talk about their courses, friends, their meals, the parties they go to. In many ways, nothing has changed except their geographical location. You still want to know everything!

35) Confide in your college child. He or she is an adult now, and part of that is you are now more free to tell them more about what’s going on in your life. It’s a transition into a new relationship—one where you also want to hear their take on things, their advice. It’s the beginning of an adult relationship with them—and can be intensely satisfying!

36) Plan their visit home, and prepare yourself for only having a small but vital part of their time. They are all grown up and have places to go and people to see. Keep that in mind and treasure the time you have together, till they have to leave home again. It won’t ever be the way it once was—but it doesn’t mean you can’t all enjoy a new and satisfying bond with your college adult.

can do to make this entire process a little easier on your family and most importantly, on yourself. Remember, this is not just an important event for your child: it’s an important one for your entire family—one fraught with fear, anxiety, apprehension but also anticipation, pride and joy. It’s easy to get stuck on the first three, and completely forget about the last. The most important thing to recognize is that all of you as a family are going to face this transition, so everyone could use a few strategies for coping—before, during, and after.


Flirting with FoodBy Terrie Price

Shake Up Your Wake Up!Some studies show that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Our productivity and energy are influenced by the foods we choose to nourish our bodies. It only makes sense that we should start our day off on a healthy note. Many prepared breakfast foods are full of ingredients that are void of nutrition. Some of these foods are laden with refined sugar, sodium, artificial colors, additives and empty calories. Additionally, some of the ‘go to’ breakfast foods you may have selected in your home country may not be available here, or are available at a high price.

Try some of these options for variety, nutrition and new go to breakfast treats!

Porridge/Oatmeal - Porridge can be made from an assortment of grains; the most notable, oats. Experiment with different grains such as quinoa, barley, spelt, or couscous. Add different toppings, for example pomegranate seeds, pumpkin, figs, nuts or almond butter. And be sure to include spices - cinnamon, cardamom or nutmeg. Make quinoa porridge with coconut milk and spices; cook your porridge with some diced mango for sweetness; add chia seeds, flax meal and sunflower seeds for a superfoods punch; add some shredded carrots and spices for carrot cake oatmeal. For a quicker version, make overnight oats by placing dry oats (½ cup) in your choice of liquid (1 cup) with desired spices. Refrigerate overnight and in the morning you will have a quick and nutritious breakfast.

Smoothies - Smoothies are a way to start your day right! With smoothies, you can sneak more vegetables into your diet. Add kale, spinach, beets or carrots to your next smoothie. Take advantage of the delicious tropical fruit varieties available in Singapore to create interesting flavors. Pineapple is a great addition to neutralize strong tasting vegetables.

Cereals - Store bought cereals are teeming with unhealthy ingredients. Next time you need cereal, make your own. Homemade granola is easy to make and consists of 4 basic ingredients - oats, nuts, a sweetener, a little oil. You can also add fruit, spices and seeds. Bake in the oven and you will have delicious granola to mix in yogurt, top with milk, or toss on top of apples and peanut butter.

Baked Goods - Coffee shop baked goods and donuts can contain upwards of 500 calories and up to 20 grams of fat. Having a sweet something with your coffee is delicious, so there is no need to deprive yourself if you make it at home. The biggest benefit is knowing exactly what goes into your food, thereby controlling the nutrition, calories and fat. Pack your baked goods with extra nutrition by using leftover zucchini, bananas or carrots for sweet bread, and substitute applesauce for oil.

Eggs - Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamin D, B12 and minerals such as iron and zinc. If


Flirting With Food

you don’t have time to make eggs for breakfast, consider making an egg casserole. Egg casseroles, quiche and frittatas are great for breakfast, lunch or snacks!

Kick start your day and be the best you can be today!

Bon appétit!

Bio: Terrie Price is a Certified Vegetarian Chef and fitness instructor. She has worked with more than 27 different chefs in over 20 countries to learn about vegetarian cuisine.

Quiche with Potato CrustThis quiche is gluten free, easy to make and delicious to eat!

For the crust: 3 large potatoes, shredded ¼ cup feta cheese (optional) Salt/pepper to taste

For the quiche: 1 onion 1 cup baby spinach 5-6 button mushrooms, sliced 2 cherry tomatoes 3-5 eggs (this will vary based on the size of your pan) 1 cup milk (can use almond, soy or cream) 3 tablespoons ricotta cheese ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Shred the potatoes and soak in salted water for about 30 minutes. Rinse well and squeeze as much water as possible out of the potatoes. If using feta cheese, use hands to mix into potatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Spread potatoes on the bottom of a tart pan, pie dish or springform pan. Bake in pre-heated oven set to 350F degrees (180C) for 20-30 minutes. Potatoes should be slightly browned when done.

Meanwhile, sauté onions in olive oil on low heat until slightly browned. Slice mushrooms and cut cherry tomatoes in half.

Whisk eggs with ricotta cheese and milk.

Once you remove the browned potatoes, arrange sliced mushrooms, onions and spinach. Pour egg mixture over vegetables and sprinkle with Gruyere cheese. Bake in a heated oven set to 375F degrees (190C) for about 20 minutes, rotate 180 degrees, add tomato halves on top and bake another 20-25 minutes. Quiche will ‘poof’ and not be ‘jiggly’ when done (professional cooking terms!). Rest quiche for about 10 minutes before serving. While resting it is normal for the quiche to flatten slightly.

Variations: - Try various cheeses such as Parmesan, cheddar or goat cheese - Substitute ricotta cheese with crème fraiche or sour cream - Use any combination of vegetables - Substitute thinly sliced sweet potatoes for the shredded potatoes


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After Ni Hao, 9 Hole GolfScrapbooking, Running

Holiday Luncheon

Drop-in Coffee

LT: Crafts & Birdsongs

Mahjong, 9-Hole Golf,Walking, Bridge Running, Walking

A&C: Home Visit

18-Hole Golf, WalkingDrop-in Coffee, Choir

Choir Concert

Running, 9 Hole GolfQuilting, After Ni Hao, Writers, Beading

LT: US EmbassyHoliday Lights Tour

Drop-in Coffee

Mahjong, 9-Hole Golf,Walking, Bridge Running, Walking


After Ni Hao, 9 Hole GolfScrapbooking, Running Drop-in Coffee

Mahjong, Walking, Bridge Running, Walking

Tennis Clinic Start


Tennis Assessments

Running, 9 Hole GolfQuilting, After Ni Hao, Writers, Beading Drop-in Coffee

Mahjong, Walking, Bridge Running, Walking

FT: CNY Walk

18-Hole Golf, WalkingDrop-in Coffee, Choir After Ni Hao, 9 Hole Golf

FT: CNY Walk

Drop-in Coffee

F: Model CallTennis: January Jubiliee

Mahjong, Walking, Bridge

Tennis: January Jubiliee, AssessementsFT: Art in Transit

Running, Walking

A&C: Tea HouseTennis: January JubilieeTennis: GNO


Running, 9 Holf GolfQuilting, After Ni Hao, Writers, Beading Drop-in Coffee

Mahjong,Walking, Bridge Running, Walking

Stamford American International School CPE Registration Number: 200823594D Period of Registration: August 10, 2014 to August 9, 2018

THE NEXT

TO LEARNAND GROW

NEW PLACEGENERATION HAS A

Introducing Stamford American International School’s new campus for early learners. Pioneer Class Aug 2017.

The world is changing. Education is changing. Today, how children learn is as important as what they learn. And that’s the inspiration for our extraordinary new early learning campus which has been built entirely for little learners aged 18 months to 6 years.

Architecturally designed with input from environmental psychologists, every detail about this first class campus has been designed to help the next generation thrive in a new world.

Come and see for yourself the difference this purpose-built environment can make to your child’s vital pre-school years. To visit our beautiful classroom display pod hosted by our friendly team simply register at www.sais.edu.sg.

Inquiry Hot l ine +65 6653 7907

21/2/2016 – 20/2/2020

COGA16007324EX_SAIS Launch Ad-AWA BT.indd 1 10/10/16 6:54 pm

we look forward to seeing you at one of our holiday events!

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