Helpful Inventions

The past two weeks have been raaaainy here in the city! Raining and chilly, and we are blessed! The rain and chilliness has caused me to notice that here in East Asia there are many things that are used very often that people in America either don't have or use very seldom. I thought I'd share some with you guys today.

Weather related

The bike baby-seat cover- As most people don't have cars here, and most everyone has a bike, many bikes have baby seats for carting their little ones around. And when it's rainy, there is no other option. Thus introducing, the bike baby-seat cover! Think... sort of like a tent...but rectangular. They sit inside this little bright colored box with a little window in the front. Perfect for keeping your little baby snug and dry while you face the elements as you go about on your way. 

However, you don't have to face the elements too much, because you're wearing your bike poncho! This is a remodeling of the standard poncho, only bigger, plus hood plus visor. The front of the poncho has a clip that clips onto your handlebars to cover your hands and front of your body. 

Upon arriving home, one can feel pretty chilly. Introducing one invention that we have used pretty much constantly since winter arrived- our electric hot water bag. This little puppy is plugged in for 8-10 minutes and becomes a nice and toasty companion for any sincere studier. 

The toilet seat cover- sure are thankful for this when our bathroom is frigid! These are very popular here in East Asia.

Other

The lazy Susan- another invention that can be found in America, but is super practical and used much more often here. East Asian people love having lots of different dishes (types of food) to choose from at a meal. Rarely (at a meal when you eat out) do people have something to themselves- they share lots of different dishes. Hence the helpfulness of the lazy Susan- when you have had enough of "Stinky tofu" (okay, we've never actually had it, but it's a real thing, and I've heard it really lives up to it's name)  and you're ready for some "Fish flavored pork" (actually quite tasty and a favorite of many Westerners), you can just give the lazy Susan a spin. 

That's all I have for today! But now my eyes are peeled, and I will keep you updated about what I discover in this uniquely different country :)