Yesterday evening I attended training at the high floor of one of the skyscrapers that decorate the Tel Aviv skyline. The shutters were down during the lesson, but when it was finished, on the way to the loo, I had a glimpse through one of the offices to the view outside. The city was spread beneath the window, with the sea on the horizon, and only a nearby building to the west disturbing the view of the sunset. I realized that this kind of vista (less the building to the west) would be the one thing that could make me really happy in a home. No matter how small or run-down the flat, with a landscape like that I would be satisfied. On the other hand, I should probably aspire for a combination of a quality room with a quality view.

We are getting ready for our holiday. In just over 12 hours we will be landing in Verona, on our way to a week long break in Tuscany. For the first time in years I am happy to consider a holiday without an internet connection at all. Holiday stories and pictures will wait until we’re back.

Another year older, another year closer to retirement.

It’s good to know that there some good people out there. Ones that put a smile on your face at the end of a difficult week, and give you hope of a better future.

Yesterday, I was slightly upset after a presentation that was stressing me recently, but didn’t go at all as well as I hoped. A colleague that I have been enjoying getting to know recently asked if I could spare a couple of minutes. She came into my office with a surprise. She will be away on holiday next week, and will miss my birthday, so she gave me a card and home made muffins as an early birthday present. I don’t know if she meant it, but she brightened my day in an instant.

Now I know that whatever happens, I have at least one friend at work.