Gah. I'm back and just about with-it again after a climate busting return to London. Left Thursday night, got back Monday morning in time for class starting at 9am. I've used http://www.climatecare.org/ to assuage my middle class guilt but at heart off-setting emissions is bollocks isn't it? It's like going to the therapist to make yourself feel better about the terrible things you do: it would help everyone if you just stopped doing them. But now having admitted the off-setting is bollocks (but also having offset) my middle class guilt is fully assuaged. However I am going to try and change my ways going forward.

But the lure of London was too strong this time. I went home for the ThoughtWorks UK Away Day for which I'd persuaded my friend Andy Walker to give the keynote speech. As I'd roped him into it, I wanted to be there to introduce him and be a friendly face in the crowd. I also harboured a sneeky suspicion that it might just be the best presentation I'd ever seen. I was right. Andy happens to be the funniest, most forthright and insightful people I've ever met and he spoke for an hour with maximum force on the phenomenon of Web2.0. It was incredible - outrageous, funny, thought-provoking - he went down tremendously well (here's a pic of Andy in action).So it was definitely worth the trip, especially as he told me his happy news and I could congratulate him and his good lady wife. Happy days all round.

The rest of the awayday was fun - it was great to catch up with so many people from the office that I haven't seen for a while and to be reminded of how many clever, energetic people I work with. It all ended with a cowboy theme party and I think I've discovered a hot new look for autumn '06...


A last word must go to London. Oh London (giddy London)! I don't think I've ever been so in love with the place. Clear, crisp blue skies, autumn leaves, glorious sunsets and the inescapable sense that there is just so much to do here. I'm going to be sad to leave Bangalore but I am looking forward to getting home. I've already made my new years resolution for next year, make the most of London, and I might try and start a month early.