Streets of Wonder

Preparing for our three-month stay in Singapore, I searched the internet and the Lonely Planet guide marking the many sights we'd visit.  After a couple of weeks, I realized there is no rush or need to squeeze in the places to see because there's plenty to appreciate and experience in ordinary neighborhoods and streets minus the effort to clog up the calendar with things to do.  

Joshua brings so much joy and wonder to seemingly mundane street scenes, increasing his vocabulary to boot as he points out his favorite cranes, backhoes, construction equipment and drainage canals proudly calling them "mine."  The Singapore government admirably maintains the streets, parks and landscaping so it's not uncommon to see tree branch trimmers hoisted high above the leafy sources of shade and oxygen.  The still maniacal dash to construct residences, offices and malls ensures constant entertainment for Joshua who loves Bob the Builder, Handy Manny and everything related to construction work.  

Care and love goes into the detailing of public spaces whether it be a private or public development.  Benches are venues for sculptural expression while public sculptures delight both eye and spirit.  Government housing playgrounds are easily accessible to anyone.

We thought Joshua was tired already but as soon as he spotted these hilly bumps incorporated into the pavement, he ran, an unstoppable packet of adrenaline.

My friend, Lani who's been living for years in Singapore gave this tip for bargain hunters like us -- flea markets on certain Sundays of the month.  We got chopsticks, toys and books for a few dollars although we didn't find the wok we wanted.  Lani also suggested the Cash Converter stores where people sell stuff they don't need.

This is the private condo where my friend JP lives with a series of super kid-friendly swimming pools.

Just by the food stalls near our home, Joshua the scientist caps the day off by experimenting with a plastic drinking straw how much weight can an insect carry.