Chinglish as she is writed

I recently bought a novelty item that's very popular here in south India, a pen with a built-in flashlight, for about USD 0.25. Made in China of course.

The instructions say: "Usage the thumb be then light to press button can illuminate."

Very, er, illuminating.

Also, "Function characteristics: The electric power is ample, give out light to hold out for long time. Write flowing freely, a thing two use."

And, "Assemble high can the battery electric power hold out for long time and can continue to give out light 2880 minutes."

It's made by Ningbo Xinboshi Culture Thing Factory Manufacturing.

Medical costs in India

When I lived in Canada, I was of course covered by the Canadian government health care, and was quite satisfied with any dealings I had to have with the system.

Now that I am settled in India, I don't have (or need) any health insurance coverage. I just pay cash on the spot for medical treatment. The other day I had to consult my doctor for two things: a recurring upset stomach, and a small spur on my left heel that I'd had for some time but which was starting to get tender. He gave me a prescription for the stomach upset (which has now cleared up completely), and did minor surgery on my heel right there in his clinic. The medicines cost about USD 3; the surgery fee would normally be USD 6, but he gave me a courtesy discount and charged only USD 2. Had a followup consultation two days later where his assistant changed the dressing on my heel; total cost USD 1 for some antiseptic powder to use the next couple of times I change the dressing myself.

I also see a naturopath for occasional accupuncture sessions. He normally charges about USD 4 per treatment, but I am his only Western patient, and as a "courtesy for visitors", he refuses to charge me.