Not quite back 'home'
So that was that. Probably the fastest 3 weeks I've ever had in my life, and in some ways the most draining. No, that makes it sound too negative, which isn't right at all.
When I was planning to come back I knew it was going to be hectic, and it was certainly that. But what an amazing time. Arriving at Heathrow was pretty surreal, but thank you very much to Rory and Pia who picked me up with a 4-pack of cold Kronenberg waiting on the front seat. That kind of set the tone for the next few weeks - much cold beer was drunk and much kindness was extended by Rory and Pia whose flat we used as a base when in London.
Hopefully I managed to catch up with everyone who reads this so there's no need for a full run down. Some thoughts though:
I know we're incredibly lucky to be doing what we're doing out here, but those of you in England shouldn't forget how lucky you are to have family and friends around, or that England really is beautiful (in the sunshine).
Emma's family and friends are lovely, and made me feel so welcome. It was a little strange for both of us to suddenly drop in on everyones' lives as a couple but we needn't have worried about anything (not that we really were... well maybe a little bit)
My family and friends are the best in the world. Within an hour of seeing everyone it was like I'd never been away, which is what I've always said is a sure sign of a strong relationship
Not much changes in a year and a half. Births, deaths and marriages. That's all you really need to keep up with. Fags are ridiculously expensive, so is petrol.
Big Brother is brilliant. In fact, this is how sad I am. In between writing bits of this I'm watching clips from the Big Brother website. Lea's gotta go soon.
Lager is so much nicer in temperatures that actually keep it cold for more than 2 minutes. (sorry Emma, think I might have nicked that one from you)
More people than I thought read this blog so I promise to try and keep it a bit more up to date
Okay that's enough I think. Did have this big plan to write loads about what it felt like being home, and being back here but didn't seem to flow so will have to leave that. Anyway, gotta go and catch my train back to Kuala Lumpur (have been in Singapore for the day sorting my visa out). Getting very excited about getting back to Trawangan and doing some diving. Hopefully see some of you there soon.
PS have spent my day waiting for my visa in the cinema. Cars is good, not as good as Finding Nemo but sweet and funny. Superman Returns is rubbish. Okay, not rubbish but tedious in places (and those were the ones I managed to stay awake for).