Today, I prayed...

... and so I made my pilgrimage to Novena Church today for the first time in 9 months.

It felt so good to be back where I usually sit and I am totally amazed at how the place never changes - the way I love it.

I gave thanks for bringing me back safely and completing the training smoothly.

For making it back for Xmas and New Year though it sure was a frenzied last 2 months.

Especially for my family, for their support and love.

I also prayed... that I will know whom is chosen for me when the time comes.

Wounds have definitely healed but do I dare try again?

Just too afraid to be swept off my feet just to find out that the engine fails on me once again... Just reflecting, I guess.

It's so good to be back!

After the dust has settled, I'm delighted to clear my flight tests and be home for Xmas! (and New Year of course!)

It was a long and tumultuous journey, from the very first sortie where you aren't sure if you are cut out to fly... to the very end where handling of the aircraft is just pure instinct and its just too beautiful - from the cocoon to the flapping of wings.

Over the last week, I managed to catch up with my chums whom I hadn't seen for the past 9 months, as well as help out Ah Di's wedding on the day after I touched down! I'm still out of touch with the happenings in the country, but its slowly coming back.

From time to time, I find that I do miss Perth quite a bit. Especially the weather, the friendly people, the fresh air, the long distance driving... and of course, the flying through the sunset trying to make it back before last light. Priceless and once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There's no place like home! That, I'm sure, Jo will agree :)