Welcome to another year. This time last year, in 2011, Toni and I were preparing for our journey north from HangZhou to the Chinese capital of Beijing. From Beijing we visited Harbin (for the Ice Festival), then on to Xi’an, before finally returning back to Zhejiang province.
This year finds us in a considerably different scenario. We’re back living in Australia, and expecting our first child. So, in a sense, we’re preparing for yet another journey, but one which promises to last a whole lot longer. We’ve established ourselves back in the old hometown, and gathered together all our worldly possessions in the hopes we can bring our new born into the world in a safe and fun environment.
On Tuesday, I return to work in the city for what promises to be a pretty full on month. Things will change very quickly and before long, we’ll be expecting our arrival. I can see, even now, that the year is going to disappear very rapidly.
My one resolution this year is to drop weight. It’s become a bit of an annual resolution which doesn’t seem to find much traction. I have a very good reason this year to get fit, and I’m hoping to use that as the motivation I need to drop below 80kgs. The timing could be quite apt, and Toni and I might be able to work on it together, as she’s likely to need to drop some of the pregnancy weight after the birth.
Lastly, we’re glad to have family and friends close by as we kick start the year. We have a pretty good idea that we’re going to need some help and people to rely on as we face a very different challenge, and the hometown advantage is what it’s all about.
Wherever you are, and whatever you do, I wish you the best for 2012 – may your best of 2011 be the worst of your 2012!
Best, R