It's been quite a week for me.

The return to reservist was quite an experience coming almost a decade since I was last conducting these exercises, taking orders and leading men. It was certainly a bit of a culture shock after being out for so long yet at the same time it was oh-so-familiar, that sense of belonging... Through the long hours and sweaty toil, inefficient programs and endless frustration, I actually thought the week was a fulfilling one. Not something I want to do regularly, but it appealed to me innately as I love meeting people and connecting with them. All the men that you meet and need to prod, push and inspire. I had a bunch of officers in my company that I shared a common outlook despite our different backgrounds, and the banter was awesome. In a weird way, after the couple of months I had, getting away from work and being plunged into this new environment helped me get in touch with me. Although it tired me out physically, it rejuvenated me emotionally and mentally. My priorities got re-focused and I was happier again, from that sense of fulfillment of purpose and the appreciation by people around you.

And when I returned home this weekend, I re-connected with with my mum, whom I hadn't had much contact with this week and my surrogate family and lil 'nephew'. It was good.

And though I know I have a mountain of work to get to this week, all's good. :)