The daily routine

I'm sitting writing this as I wait for clothes to finish drying. We've become accustomed to using the numerous heating vents in the house to dry clothes, resorting to the dryer when that too is inadequate. The weather in London has turned cold and opportunities to dry clothes naturally, on the line outside, are few and far between. It was two degrees this morning. I've never used a dryer before. My parents had one in Melbourne, but it sat on a shelf in the garage for as long as I can remember. Not that there is anything particularly complicated about it. You put the clothes in and it starts when you close the door. Set the timer and leave it to do its thing. So simple, but it is something new to me. This in turn sums what London has been like. A journey of constant discovery. Each day is full of choices about engaging the familiar or to venture in the hope of new discoveries. Walking a different street or trying a new place to eat. London is what you want it to be. And sometimes not what you want. Two weeks ago I got mugged. I took my regular shortcut home and encountered a group of teens. It was opportunistic on their part. They wanted cigarettes but got cash, a debit card and an iPhone. I got a wake up call to the need to be aware of my surroundings. I don't take that shortcut home anymore. For the last four weeks I've been freelancing at The Body Shop. Each morning I walk across London Bridge to their office in SE1. Each morning I take in some of the most recognisable buildings of London: Tower Bridge, St Paul's Cathedral and the Swiss Re building. Each time I am reminded that I am really here in London.

I really love it here. Even if I was here on my own, there would be enough to keep me busy a good period of time. I explored South Kensington over the weekend with its amazing design district. It requires a great deal of restraint to not buy alot of things. The other night I ate with Wei and we talked about how blessed we are that we had the opportunity for a good education growing up. That education has enabled us the opportunities we have today, to be able to travel abroad and apply our skills in a job half way across the world. I have made the necessary contacts to secure ongoing freelance work in the new year. I've also selectively applied for a couple of roles which are in areas which I'm keen to grow in. Am believing that the God will open the door to the right one. With Winter comes Christmas. The christmas lights in town are as much a feat of engineering as they are a illuminated display. The window displays here put Bourke St Mall to shame. I dare not think about the electrical consumption for some of the street lighting, such is the extreme of their decorations. This time last year it was already snowing. Am hoping for a white Christmas where I can make a snow angel in the back yard this year. Christmas will be celebrated with family and friends, just as it should be. And then Boxing Day I'll fly to KL to see more friends and someone in particular. After five months in London I feel a certain peace now with day to day life. While I have not travelled as much as I would have liked, I believe I have laid strong foundations for an amazing 2012. For all my friends in Melbourne, I miss you dearly. Looking forward to seeing a good number of you in KL/Singapore in a few weeks time.