No cookalong this week as I’m up to my eyes in preparations for the Christening on Sunday. Instead, courtesy of Kate Takes 5 (http://katetakes5.blogspot.com/), here are the top 5 decisions I reckon I’ve made.
Moving to Shetland
This was a bit of a gamble. When I started work after Uni, it was in Kent. My wife-to-be followed me there, we were settled, had a kid and everything looked pretty good. I’d almost forgotten about “I’ll follow you when you finish your degree as long as you’ll follow me when I finish my training.” Long story short: Interview for the job in a cold, wet, miserable, windy, foggy January. Accepted, moved here in the July. That was almost 8 years ago. And I’m loving it up here. Since I’ve been here I’ve tried my hand at archery (and represented my islands in the Island Games), run a half-marathon (doing another in a couple of weeks), rowed competitively, the list goes on. The opportunities are here for those brave enough to take them.
Learning to Touch-Type
Years and years ago, back in the mists of time when I did my GCSE English, my teacher told me my handwriting was appalling. I think I’ve mentioned in on here before. Anyway, I took a night class in typing and it’s stood me in very good stead ever since. No-one else can knock out half-tested, buggy code as fast as I can.
Indian Cookery Night Class
Another winner, and one I’m not sure I would’ve got the opportunity in Kent. One of the amazing things about Shetland is the diversity of skills people who just pass through have to offer – and how willing they are to share them. I’m trying to pass some of this on with the odd website for clubs, societies and community groups.
Having Kids
I have 5 fantastic kids. Well, 4 fantastic kids and the other one who’s playing up and trying to eat his/her brother. They take turns in playing that role. I blame/thank having 5 kids on moving up to this bleak, forsaken rock. Nowhere in Kent would we be able to afford a house big enough to contain us all.
Marrying my Wife
If it weren’t for her, 3 of the other 4 things on this list would probably never have happened. I’ll give you a clue – I’d learned to type before we started seeing each other.
Now, enough of my ramblings. By the time you read this I’ll be providing a full English breakfast to a houseful of visitors. Now, go off to Kate Takes 5, find the Listography, and enjoy lists far more interesting than mine!
One reply on “Listography – Decisions, Decisions”
Great list, John. Really interesting life story you’ve got there. Moving to Shetland was a seriously HUGE decision. Not one I would ever have been brave enough to take, despite all the moaning we do about living in London, in a flat, with three kids etc. And very impressedyou took the Indian night cookery classes. That explains you expertise and passion.
p.s. you posting a recipe today?