Feedback overload

I’ve now told pretty much everyone about my planned move to Singapore. I’ve warned the girls, braced my housemates, pre-warned and then officially informed from work, and have struggled through the tricky task of telling my parents and family that yet another child would be running away to the other side of the world – and it’s not even the same side as their currently estranged daughter lives on!

            Whilst the face to face discussions about this resulted in a couple of bouts of tears (a stage that I have thankfully now passed through) all email communication about the subject has lead to some really lovely messages from friends and family alike.

            I was wondering what post would need to be the first on this blog, and I have decided that maybe a selection of quotes of love following on from my announcement would be a nice. If being in Singapore ever gets too much, I hope that some of these notes will be enough to see me through the tough times (well, these notes and a shed load of gin and carby food – two things I know they love to serve in Singapore):

From work contacts;

“Congrats again on the move that is so exciting! I am sure it will be exiting, terrifying, comical, invigorating and amazing all in one.”

From friends;

“You have to grab these chances with both hands – I’m trying not to sound too cheesy and now to add a cliché to the mix - life is short so go and bloody do something with it, I’m bloody proud of you!  And, your friends, family, London will all still be here when you get back in a year or two, or however long you’re there for. You are going to have the time of your life!!”

“I’ve just ready your email!! IM SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!! I also feel a bit sick ha ha I think that’s because I’m also sad and going to miss you. We are already planning on coming to visit you so you better be ready for us. Aside from the fact that I will miss you hugely, I’m so glad and proud of you for deciding to do it – I’m a huge advocate of following your heart and I think you are doing the right thing whatever happens.”

“You are one amazing lady who is about to have such an Asian experience. Go for it girl...life is out there for the taking and you are the best person I know to get the most out of every day.”


“Reading this brought tears to my eyes, for many reasons...we I are so happy for you and very excited as you begin a very new, brave adventure and life with the very lucky Nick.  But I must say it will be so very strange to have you so far away when we have all gone through so much together.

            You have always been there for us (through happy and difficult times) and your friendship is so important.  You must have felt so pulled as to what to do and I don't envy the decisions you have had to make...but they are I feel the right ones for you.  Sometimes a leap of faith can be the beginning of something amazing.”

From family;

“I'm a bit overwhelmed by this email today. I'm not sure why. Although it has just occurred to me that we will have to have a trip to Singapore in the next couple of years which is fun!”

And of course, from my darling brother; 

“You butt munch!!!! Need a drop-dead date for your ultimate return thank you please…”