I’m never sure how much personal stuff to include here - some of you say you like it, but I think it can get terribly self-indulgent. So if you’re not interested in that kind of stuff, skip this, without further ado.
As you may know, I moved to Munich, Germany about a year ago for family reasons. My wife is Bavarian (being Bavarian is more relevant than being German, actually) and we wanted our kids to grow up speaking the language and feeling at home here.
From a family point of view, it’s great. We live just south of Munich in a town that’s so desirable that it’s probably the most expensive in Germany. It’s by a huge lake (55 km around) that’s spectacular and great for swimming in Summer. We’re near the Alps for hiking and skiing. And Munich has bags of culture, if that’s your thing too.
From a professional point of view, it’s been little short of taking a sabbatical. It’s not practical to live in Germany and freelance/consult in England. And I don’t have much of a network here - most of my work has come from referrals, historically.
So if you know anyone who needs someone with expertise in mobile/mobile marketing/location based services, get them to give me a shout if it can be done with me living here - though I would be happy to travel, if necessary.
On a more positive note, tomorrow sees the opening of the new football stadium here, The Alliance Arena (pictured), shared between Bayern Munich and their less famous cousins, 1860. The stadium changes colour depending on who’s playing that day - red for Bayern, blue for 1860.
The opening ceremony will be concluded with a match between Bayern Munich and the German national side. And I’ve been invited by a pal of mine - my network might be small, but it’s pretty good quality 
Well enough about me. I’ve been doing some research into YOU. Does this describe you? I think you’ll find it does…
People close to you have been taking advantage of you. Your basic honesty has been getting in your way. Many opportunities that you have had offered to you in the past have had to be surrendered because you refuse to take advantage of others. You like to read books and articles to improve your mind.
In fact, if you’re not already in some sort of personal service business, you should be. You have an infinite capacity for understanding people’s problems and you can sympathize with them. But you are firm when confronted with obstinacy or outright stupidity. Law enforcement would be another field you understand. Your sense of justice is quite strong.
Hmm… does this ring any bells for you?
It’s based on the fascinating art of Cold Reading, a technique behind much magic and con tricks like horoscopes and spiritual medium (media?).
I thought you might find it interesting.
Have a great week!
Russell