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!
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?