The journey so far...

It wasn't so long ago that I came over to London. Hmmm, some ask: "So how has it been?", "feelings after 8 months?". Feelings? Well, I can still remember:
- The apprehension that I had when I first heard of Barclays Capital's interview;
- Confidence when I was interviewed by Mark and George;
- Anxiety of waiting for the results;
- Relief when I got the offer;
- Confusion when I had to break the news to Chin and Shu Ping;
- Excitement in the days leading up to the departure (for London);
- Sadness on the day of departure, leaving my family and friends; and
- Lostness in my first month in London, and;
- Inexplicable joy when I saw Xueyan at Heathrow.

I added disappointment to the list when I was first assigned to Financial Planning and Analysis. Quite a funky title but not quite the technical stuff I was hoping for. How that mindset changes in 8 months. I have indeed learnt a lot during the last 8 months. And most glad to be given (limited) access to management and the trust to handle certain key stuff. The good appraisal simply topped the icing on the cake. I shall NOW replace disappointment with bliss. Most things aren't the way they sound or seem. The low expectations I had made it easier for me to enjoy and whatever good fun I had were bonuses to me.

I look back with fond memories, especially the friendships cultivated with Viv, Anthony, Mark, Sarah, Alex and Matt. Pity Rosy came over just when I was about to leave. Next stop - Fixed Income Exotics and Quantos. Quite a mouthful but I asked for it this time. Prayfully it would turn out equally well, if not better.

Away from the topic, we (group of 10 Singaporeans, Malaysians and Australians) went to join the NEL Ramblers for a 13-miles walk at Hastings last Saturday. What an introduction to walking in UK. Click on the link for some (few) pictures of our time there. Good scenery, nice hot/cold weather and, undeniably, 10 pairs of sore legs after 7 hours of brisk walking. With old folks no less.